High school teachers are much more than sources of information. Every day
they help young people in ways beyond the purely academic -- both inside and
outside the classroom.
Of course, the core of their job is the presentation of an approved curriculum.
They help students at public and private schools get a grasp on various subjects
such as math, English, biology and chemistry.
Teachers figure out the best way to present the material, whether it's
a lecture, class discussion or laboratory experiment -- in the shop or out
in the field. Every day is different, and it's always a challenge to present
things in new and interesting ways.
High school teacher Richard Goodman says teaching is an art fueled by an
inner passion. His passion for teaching chemistry has stayed strong for more
than 30 years.
"When it was my time to choose a profession, I ultimately said, 'You know
what, I want to give teaching a whirl,'" says Goodman. "And this now is my
33rd year doing it, and every day I come to work and it's better than the
[one before].
"It gives me an opportunity to read things on a daily basis and make it
very practical," Goodman adds. "There's not a day goes by that something in
the world... doesn't strike me as relevant, and relevant enough for kids to
be able to know about." .
High school teachers (also called secondary school teachers) are responsible
for monitoring their students' progress. This involves writing and marking
tests, assigning and correcting homework, preparing report cards, and meeting
with parents.
High school teachers also play a role in the school as a whole. They get
involved with extracurricular activities like coaching and clubs. They may
also counsel students on personal matters like career choices. They must also
take part in regular staff meetings and professional development sessions.
"Many teachers coach sports," says Goodman. "The opportunities to go beyond
the classroom are enormous and in many places it's expected -- to take on
clubs and sports and areas of interest. And that's another part of the job
that has a whole other dimension... so your role goes well beyond the teaching
of your subject area, especially at the secondary level."
Secondary school teachers usually teach one or two subjects (or related
subjects) to several classes of students. For example, a high school history
teacher might teach American history, contemporary American issues and world
geography.
Some teachers work for private schools instead of public schools. These
teachers still need a bachelor's degree but might not require the same licensing
as public school teachers. In general, teachers at private schools earn less
than those at public schools.
High school teachers spend much of their day in the classroom, but the
job doesn't end there. Teachers also spend time outside the classroom preparing
lessons and marking tests. Extracurricular activities and in-services also
take up considerable extra time. Studies have shown that during the school
year, the average teacher works close to 50 hours per week.
Keeping their students occupied is one way that teachers maintain a well-managed
classroom. Just ask high school math teacher Janet Munroe-Carpenter. She
has been teaching for nearly 30 years.
"As soon as that bell goes, I take off," she says. "There's no lull time
or anything like that. It is a rollercoaster ride right from the very beginning..."
Although most teachers have two months off in the summer, many take other
jobs and some enroll in college courses to continue their own education.
Some teachers work in districts with a year-round schedule. They typically
work eight weeks, then have a one-week vacation. They also have a five-week
midwinter break.
Teachers say that it's gratifying to watch students develop new skills.
Still, it can be stressful if you're dealing with unmotivated students or
big classes.
While teaching doesn't take a lot of physical strength, the job can be
demanding. Teachers do a lot of standing and speaking. They also have to remain
alert at all times, which can require plenty of energy.
"You make an impact, you make a difference," says Goodman. "Teachers can
make a significant difference in the lives of kids, from an academic and a
personal viewpoint."