High School Teacher
High school teachers instruct students in grades 9-12 in specific subject areas, developing curriculum aligned with state standards and preparing students for post-secondary education or the workforce. They assess student progress, communicate with parents, and often sponsor extracurricular activities. The BLS reports a median salary of $62,360 with 1% projected growth. Many states require a bachelor's degree plus teaching certification.
A Day in the Life
A typical day begins with reviewing lesson plans and setting up classroom materials before the first bell. The morning involves teaching three periods of a subject like chemistry, adjusting explanations for different skill levels. After lunch, the teacher grades quizzes, meets with a struggling student during office hours, and attends a department meeting to discuss upcoming standardized tests.
Key Stats
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $42,000
Median: $62,360
Senior: $85,000
Job Growth