High School Teacher Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the era of modern education, the role of high school teachers is more crucial than ever.

As society progresses, there’s a growing demand for dedicated professionals who can shape, inspire, and protect the minds of our future generations.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a high school teacher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A school administrator crafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of high school education,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable high school teacher job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or educational career sites.

Let’s jump right into it.

High School Teacher Duties and Responsibilities

High School Teachers are responsible for preparing and teaching academic, social and practical skills to high school students, while also fostering a safe and engaging classroom environment.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing lesson plans that meet national curriculum standards
• Teaching subjects to students at various levels of difficulty
• Grading assignments and tests, providing feedback to students about their progress
• Communicating with parents about their child’s performance and addressing any academic or behavior problems
• Maintaining discipline and conduct in the classroom
• Collaborating with other teachers, administrators, and staff to create an optimal learning environment
• Identifying varying teaching methods that work best for students who learn differently
• Preparing students for standardized tests required for college entry
• Participating in and organizing extracurricular activities such as clubs and sports
• Continuously updating professional knowledge and skills to ensure the best educational practices are being utilized

 

High School Teacher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a committed and passionate High School Teacher to join our team.

The successful candidate will be required to develop lesson plans, instruct students in a specific subject area, and assess students’ academic capabilities.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of the high school curriculum and is able to effectively engage and inspire students to reach their full potential.

The role of the High School Teacher is to provide a high-quality, comprehensive, and meaningful education to all students.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement lesson plans in accordance with curriculum guidelines
• Provide instruction in a specific subject area to students
• Assess and evaluate student’s educational progress and abilities
• Set and grade homework and assignments
• Maintain discipline in the classroom
• Create a positive and appropriate classroom environment
• Communicate with parents on students’ progress
• Participate in parent-teacher meetings and staff meetings
• Keep up to date with developments in subject area curriculum

 

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in education or the subject they intend to teach
• State-issued teaching certification
• Proven experience as a High School Teacher
• Strong knowledge of the teaching subject and creativity
• Excellent communicational and interpersonal skills
• Well-organized and committed
• Creative and energetic
• Strong moral values and discipline

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: High School Teacher
• Work Environment: School setting. Some weekend or evening work may be required for parent-teacher meetings or school events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the School Principal or Department Head.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and school district considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a High School Teacher Do?

High School Teachers work in educational institutions and are responsible for educating students between the ages of 14 and 18, depending on the country’s educational system.

They develop lesson plans and teach various subjects such as Mathematics, Science, English, History, Art, or specific languages.

Teachers may specialize in one or more subjects.

High School Teachers guide students towards academic success by providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their chosen academic paths.

They are responsible for creating an engaging, inspiring, and challenging learning environment that encourages students to participate and learn effectively.

In addition to delivering lessons, they evaluate students’ performance, provide feedback, and grade assignments and tests.

They also help students prepare for standardized tests and college entrance exams.

High School Teachers often collaborate with colleagues and parents to discuss students’ progress and address any behavioral or academic issues.

They also perform administrative tasks like taking attendance, updating records, and organizing school events.

They play a critical role in developing students’ critical thinking skills, self-confidence, and social skills.

They also help students plan their future academic and career paths.

This includes providing advice on college applications, internships, and vocational training programs.

 

High School Teacher Qualifications and Skills

A high school teacher must possess a range of skills and qualifications that allow them to effectively educate and mentor students, including:

• Strong knowledge in their specialized subject area to provide comprehensive instruction and answer student inquiries.
• Excellent communication skills to convey complex subjects in a way that students can understand and absorb.
• Patient and empathetic approach to help students overcome academic difficulties and encourage their intellectual growth.
• Exceptional organizational skills to prepare lesson plans, assignments, and tests, as well as to manage grading and record keeping.
• Ability to build strong relationships with students, fostering a positive and motivating learning environment.
• Experience with various teaching methods and educational tools to accommodate different learning styles and abilities.
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify and address academic and behavioral issues.
• Leadership and mentorship qualities to guide students in their academic journey and prepare them for future careers or education.
• Comfortable with using technology in the classroom for teaching and administrative purposes.

 

High School Teacher Experience Requirements

Prospective high school teachers typically need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in education or in their subject area of specialization.

Depending on the state, some teachers can gain their licensure or certification during their undergraduate studies, allowing them to begin teaching immediately upon graduation.

However, most schools prefer to hire teachers who have several years of experience working with students in a classroom setting, either as a student teacher or as a substitute teacher.

This experience allows prospective teachers to develop classroom management skills, an understanding of the school environment, and a familiarity with lesson planning and curriculum implementation.

For those transitioning into teaching from another career, a certain amount of field or professional experience may be required.

For example, a person with a degree in mathematics who worked as an engineer may have the relevant experience to teach high school math.

Advanced roles, such as department heads or lead teachers, usually require a minimum of 5-7 years of teaching experience.

These roles may also require a master’s degree in education or a related field.

Teachers who wish to work in specialized areas, such as special education or English as a second language (ESL), usually need to have additional training or certification in these areas, in addition to relevant teaching experience.

 

High School Teacher Education and Training Requirements

To become a High School Teacher, one typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree in education.

However, in many states, high school teachers must have majored in the subject they wish to teach, such as math, chemistry, or history.

In addition to a degree, public school teachers must also hold a state-issued certification or license.

Requirements for certification or licensure vary by state but generally involve passing a series of examinations.

Many states also require high school teachers to earn a master’s degree in their subject or in education after they have started teaching.

Teachers typically enroll in professional development courses throughout their careers to keep up with changes in the curriculum and advancements in teaching resources and methodologies.

While not always required, acquiring additional certifications such as in special education or English as a Second Language (ESL) can increase job prospects and lead to higher pay.

Internship or student teaching experience is also heavily emphasized in teacher preparation programs to provide candidates with hands-on practice in lesson planning, classroom management, and student assessment.

Continual learning and professional development are essential for high school teachers, to stay current in their subject area and to enhance their teaching skills.

 

High School Teacher Salary Expectations

A High School Teacher earns an average of $61,660 (USD) annually.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, educational background, subject taught, and the geographical location of the school.

 

High School Teacher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a high school teacher need?

High school teachers need to have excellent communication skills to effectively deliver lessons and interact with students, parents, and other staff members.

They should have a deep knowledge of their subject area and the ability to plan and deliver engaging lessons.

High school teachers also need strong organizational skills, the ability to manage classroom behavior, and a passion for helping students learn and grow.

 

Do high school teachers need a degree?

Yes, high school teachers typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in education or in their subject area, along with a teaching certificate or license.

Some states or schools may also require a master’s degree or additional certification in special education or English as a second language.

 

What should you look for in a high school teacher’s resume?

On a high school teacher’s resume, you should look for a degree in education or the specific subject area they will be teaching.

They should also have a teaching certification or license.

Additionally, experience in a classroom setting, whether through student teaching or previous teaching jobs, is a valuable asset.

 

What qualities make a good high school teacher?

A good high school teacher is passionate about their subject and about teaching, able to engage students and make learning enjoyable.

They should be patient, understanding, and able to adapt their teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles.

Good high school teachers also have strong classroom management skills, and they foster a respectful and inclusive learning environment.

 

Is it difficult to hire high school teachers?

The difficulty in hiring high school teachers can depend on several factors, such as the location of the school and the subject area.

For instance, there is often a high demand for teachers in rural areas or for certain subjects like math and science.

Offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve pulled back the veil on what it truly means to be a high school teacher.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about teaching subjects.

It’s about shaping minds and cultivating the leaders of tomorrow, one lesson at a time.

With our comprehensive high school teacher job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take the next step.

But don’t halt your journey there.

Plunge further into the educational realm with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting spot-on job listings or honing your resume to absolute excellence.

Remember:

Every lesson is a part of the grand scheme of education.

Let’s mould the future. Together.

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