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How to Become a High School Teacher
High School Teachers guide students through some of the most critical years of their academic and personal development. They teach specialized subjects such as English, math, science, social studies, or career and technical education, helping students build the knowledge and skills needed for college, careers, and civic life.
If you are passionate about your subject area and committed to making a difference, becoming a High School Teacher offers a meaningful career path. A Bachelor’s in Secondary Education—often paired with a Master’s in Education or a subject-specific field—prepares you to inspire and lead young adults.
High School Teacher Job Description
High School Teachers create subject-specific lessons aligned with state standards, foster critical thinking and communication skills, and help students explore future pathways. They manage diverse classrooms, differentiate instruction, assess student progress, and collaborate with families and colleagues to support student success.
Teachers often sponsor extracurricular activities, such as sports teams, clubs, or academic competitions, which further build relationships and community.
Common Tasks and Responsibilities:
| Core Tasks | Examples |
|---|---|
| Plan and deliver specialized instruction | Teach English, biology, algebra, history, or career tech courses |
| Assess student learning | Create and grade exams, projects, and formative assessments |
| Differentiate instruction | Adapt lessons for English learners, students with disabilities, and advanced students |
| Prepare students for postsecondary paths | Guide college applications, career exploration, and life skills |
| Sponsor extracurricular activities | Lead clubs, coach teams, or direct school events |
Mandela championed education as essential for social change and empowerment.
What Are the Educational Requirements to Become a High School Teacher?
High School Teachers must hold at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education or a bachelor’s degree in their content area (e.g., English, biology, math) along with teacher certification coursework.
Many educators later pursue a Master’s in Education, Curriculum and Instruction, or a specialized subject area to deepen expertise and advance their careers.
Education Path:
| Level | Program | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Secondary Education or Subject-Specific Degree + Teaching Certificate | Required for initial licensure |
| Master’s Degree (optional) | M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction or Subject Area (e.g., Math, English, Biology) | Enhances expertise, leadership opportunities, and salary potential |
| Fieldwork | Student teaching in high school classrooms | Supervised practicum in a specific subject area |
Internships and Exams:
- Completion of a semester-long student teaching placement
- Passage of required content and pedagogy exams (e.g., Praxis, edTPA)
Are Any Certifications, Licenses, or Credentials Needed?
Yes, public high school teachers must earn state certification or licensure, typically specific to the subject and grade level they intend to teach. Certification requirements include a bachelor’s degree, completion of a teacher preparation program, and passing content-specific exams.
Advanced certifications, like National Board Certification, can enhance salary and professional recognition.
Common Credentials:
| Credential | Purpose |
|---|---|
| State Secondary Teaching License (Subject-Specific) | Required to teach grades 9–12 in public schools |
| Additional Endorsements (e.g., ESL, Special Education) | Allow teachers to support specialized student populations |
| National Board Certification (optional) | Recognizes expert teaching practice across disciplines |
Licensing Process:
- Graduate from an accredited teacher preparation program
- Pass general knowledge and subject-area exams
- Apply for licensure through the state education agency
Where Do High School Teachers Work?
High School Teachers work primarily in public high schools, private secondary schools, charter schools, and alternative education programs. Some also teach in early college high schools or specialized academies focused on STEM, the arts, or career training.
Common Workplaces:
- Public high schools (urban, suburban, rural)
- Private and independent schools
- Charter and magnet schools
- Early college and dual enrollment programs
- Online or blended secondary schools
Employer Examples:
| Employer Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Public High Schools | Chicago Public Schools, Fairfax County Public Schools |
| Charter Networks | BASIS Charter Schools, Success Academy High Schools |
| Private Schools | Phillips Exeter Academy, The Hotchkiss School |
| Virtual Schools | K12 Online High Schools, Pearson Online Academy |
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What Skills and Traits Do Successful High School Teachers Have?
High School Teachers must balance subject-matter expertise with strong classroom management, communication, and mentoring skills. They need to engage teenagers in meaningful learning while supporting their transition into adulthood.
Successful teachers are adaptable, culturally responsive, and committed to helping all students thrive academically and personally.
Key Skills and Traits:
- Expertise in content area instruction
- Curriculum design and lesson planning skills
- Classroom management and student engagement strategies
- Ability to differentiate instruction for diverse learners
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Commitment to equity and culturally responsive teaching
- Advising, mentoring, and college/career readiness support
High School Teacher Salary Overview
Salaries vary based on subject area, location, and level of experience. Teachers in high-demand fields like STEM or special education may qualify for bonuses or salary supplements.
| Role Level | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level High School Teacher | $50,000 – $60,000 |
| Experienced High School Teacher | $65,000 – $80,000 |
| Department Chair or Instructional Coach | $80,000 – $95,000+ |
Job Outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of high school teachers is projected to grow steadily, with strong demand for educators in STEM, bilingual education, and special education fields.
Link to our Master’s in Education Salary Guide for more details.
Take the Next Step Toward Becoming a High School Teacher
If you’re passionate about your subject and committed to preparing young people for the future, becoming a High School Teacher offers a career rich with opportunity and impact. A Bachelor’s in Secondary Education or your subject area—and possibly a Master’s in Education—will prepare you to lead high school classrooms with expertise and purpose.
Explore programs that help you master instructional strategies, inspire diverse learners, and guide students toward academic and personal success.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: High School Teachers
- National Education Association (NEA): Resources for Secondary Educators
- Education Week: High School Teaching Careers
- National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS): Certification Information