Teacher: Career Information

Teacher: Career Information
ob Description
A teacher works with students and helps them learn concepts in subjects such as science, mathematics, language arts, social studies, art and music. They then help them apply these concepts. Teachers work in elementary schools, middle schools, secondary schools and preschools. Teachers work in either private schools or public schools. Some teach special education, but information on those who do is not included in this profile.
Employment Facts for Teachers
Teachers, other than special education teachers, held about four million jobs in 2006. Most worked in public schools.
Educational Requirements for Teachers
Public school teachers in every state are required to have bachelor's degrees. One must also have completed an approved teacher training program that includes earning a specified number of subject and education credits, in addition to practical training, i.e. student teaching. Some states also require teachers to earn a master's degree within a certain amount of time. Requirements for preschool teachers vary by state. Some require a bachelor's degree in early childhood education while others require an associate's degree.
Other Requirements for Teachers
All states and the District of Columbia require public school teachers to be licensed. State boards or departments of education generally issue these licenses. In order to be issued a license, one generally must pass an exam that demonstrates competency in basic skills and proficiency in his or her subject area. Some states require certification for preschool teachers and this requirement may vary depending on whether one teaches in a public or a private school.
Career Advancement Opportunities for Teachers
With experience, some teachers become school administrators. Others get additional training and become guidance counselors, school librarians and reading specialists. Preschool teachers may move from assistant teacher, to teacher, and then to lead teacher.
Job Outlook for Teachers
Employment of kindergarten through secondary school teachers will grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2016. Job opportunities will vary from good to excellent. This will depend on location, grade level and subject specialty.
How Much Do Teachers Earn?
Median annual earnings of kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers ranged from $43,580 to $48,690 in 2006. Preschool teachers earned a median annual income of $22,680. Over half of all teachers belonged to unions that negotiated contracts on their behalf.

Use the Salary Wizard at Salary.com to find out how much teachers currently earn in your city.
What Do Teachers Do?

Teachers:

* use props or manipulatives to help children understand abstract concepts, solve problems, and develop critical thought processes;
* introduce children to mathematics, language, science, and social studies;
* encourage collaboration in solving problems by having students work in groups to discuss and solve problems together;

Preschool teachers:

* use storytelling, rhyming games, and acting games to further children's language and vocabulary development;
* improve social skills;
* introduce scientific and mathematical concepts;
* use a less structured approach, including small-group lessons, one-on-one instruction, and learning through creative activities such as art, dance, and music;

Elementary School Teachers:

* instruct one class of children in several subjects or work as a team with another teacher;
* sometimes teach one special subject, such as music or art;

Middle school teachers and secondary school teachers

* help students delve more deeply into subjects introduced in elementary school and expose them to more information about the world;
* specialize in a specific subject;
* may teach subjects that are career oriented;

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Teachers: Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos069.htm (visited July 7