What does a Teacher do?
Teachers develop curriculum and lesson plans, and present those lessons to their students, individually or in groups. They track the progress of their students and create reports to inform parents about their progress. Teachers are responsible for maintaining a safe and respectful classroom environment in order to optimize student capabilities and develop their love of learning.
Teachers are required to have a Bachelor's degree and a teaching credential. In order to obtain a teaching credential, a minimum number of hours in education coursework must be completed and an exam must be passed. Requirements may vary by state and type of school. Many teachers choose to advance their career by entering into administrative positions, like prinicipal or superintendent.
- Develop curriculum to meet developmental goals and instructional activities
- Prepare lesson materials, grade papers, manage the classroom, and evaluate and give feedback to students
- Exercise open and respectful communication with families, co-workers, supervisors, and other school staff
- Measure progress and accomplishments of students towards their academic achievements on a regular basis and provide progress reports as required
- Create and keep records on attendance, accidents, incidents, and other noteworthy events in accordance with licensing guidelines and program policies
- Attend conferences and workshops in order to further advance professional development
- Manage student behavior in accordance with outlined guidelines
- Provide a safe, thriving, and respectful environment for all students in the classroom and on the school campus
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited university
- Teaching credential/certificate/license for corresponding age/grade level
- 2 years of teaching experience
- Highly developed oral and written communication skills
- Ability to build relationships effectively and professionally with families and students
- Experience developing and implementing curriculum
- Physical ability to handle frequent sitting, stooping, bending, pushing, pulling, and moving throughout the room
- Proven ability to maintain a safe and studious classroom environment
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement age-appropriate curriculum
Teacher Salaries
Average Base Pay
Teacher Career Path
Learn how to become a Teacher, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Teacher Insights
“CLI was a unique and interesting job which gave independence and therefore boosted personal and professional growth of its employees”
Success Academy Charter Schools“If you are not certified to teach it is a good salary and experience to get your feet wet.”
“Everyday is different and your schedule is pretty varied which is nice and keeps things fresh.”
Bright Horizons Family Solutions“Pay is not the greatest but the depends heavily upon where you work and what role”
Needham Public Schools“Salary and support: it is one of the best paying districts for teachers in MA”
Genius Kids“The pay isn't the best but you come to work and enjoy every minute!”
Northwood Academy“Pay isn’t great but no where close to the other stuff you have to do at government schools.”
Enlightium Academy“I have tried several things many worked and have been great but others did not.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of teachers
A typical day of a teacher includes preparing lesson plans based on the school's curriculum. They engage directly with the students during class time. Teachers evaluate students' grasp of educational concepts through tests and homework, then communicate with parents during parent-teacher conferences. Occasionally, teachers accompany children on field trips.
Teaching is one of the most important careers in society. The best part about being a teacher is establishing the moral and academic framework for every child in the classroom. Each president, investment banker, and government official has had an influential teacher. These professionals can invent creative lesson plans and deliver the curriculum in an engaging way to keep children involved and interested. They are 'mandated reporters' and often notice problems that others miss.
The average salary for teachers is €46,896. Many professionals feel that this number doesn't accurately represent the time and energy they put into the job. A teacher's salary is dependent on the size and affluence of the school district and the teacher's education and experience. Professionals can supplement their income with weekend tutoring sessions.
Working as a teacher involves a lot of responsibility. Many teachers find that they spend a significant amount of time before and after official work hours developing lesson plans and grading homework. It can also be frustrating communicating with parents who are out of touch with their children's educational needs. Becoming a teacher is great for dedicated people who enjoy interacting with children and teenagers.