What are the duties and requirements to become a high school teacher?

I'm planning my future career path and want to know what it takes to become a high school teacher. What are the education requirements and job duties for this position?

Becoming a high school teacher typically requires a bachelor's degree, a teaching license, and relevant student teaching experience.

To start, the Bachelor's degree often is in education or in the specific subject that you wish to teach, such as history, English, mathematics, or science. Some aspiring teachers opt to pursue a degree in a specific subject (like English or Biology) and then complete a post-bachelor’s teacher preparation program.

Next, acquiring a teaching license or certification is typically a state requirement to teach in public schools. This often involves passing a teachers certification exam, which can vary by state. Make sure to research the certification process in your specific state to understand its unique requirements.

Lastly, prior to earning their license, teachers usually must go through a period of fieldwork, commonly referred to as student teaching. This gives potential teachers real-life classroom experience under the guidance of an experienced mentor.

As for the daily tasks and responsibilities, high school teachers often plan lessons, instruct students in various subjects, and assess student performance through quizzes, tests, and essays. Classroom management and discipline are also part of a teacher's routine to ensure a safe and productive learning environment.

Additionally, high school teachers also have a duty to prepare students for life beyond high school, whether that's entering the workforce or pursuing higher education. They might discuss potential career paths, arrange for guest speakers, organize field trips, or help students apply to college.

In terms of skills, successful teachers are typically excellent communicators, possess a strong understanding of the subject matter they teach, and demonstrate a passion for education and a dedication to student success. Patience, creativity, and ability to inspire students are also key qualities.

Keep in mind that this is a generalized overview. There can be some variation in the pathway to becoming a high school teacher depending on the state, the school district, the subject area, and whether you're interested in public or private school teaching.