In general, teachers are responsible for designing and establishing curriculum and classroom presentations for students. Besides planning and assigning lessons and tests, teachers are also responsible for making sure that students learn the presentations that have been prepared.

Teachers are usually solely responsible for observing and evaluating the academic performances of students who attend their class. The information that they collect determines a student’s grade and level of academic success. In some cases, teachers may meet with the student, the student’s parents, and/or school staff members to discuss the academic performance and progression of a student. Depending on their place of employment, teachers may also assist in overseeing extracurricular activities, tutoring, or mentoring programs.

Teachers work with people of all ages in a variety of different settings. Settings most often include private schools, public schools, special-education schools, vocational and technical schools, colleges, and universities. Because distance education learning has become so popular, some teachers also administer academic programs online from their home or office.

Preschool Teachers- These teachers play a very important role in child development. Preschool teachers introduce their young students to basic skills with a variety of methods that often include music, games, and interactive activities.

Elementary School Teachers- Often instructing students in a variety of different subjects, elementary school teachers may work with students of varying ages. In some cases, elementary school teachers specialize in one or two subjects. In small schools, elementary school teachers may be responsible for teaching students of different age levels in one classroom.

Middle School and Secondary School Teachers- These teachers usually specialize in one particular subject, helping students to continue what they began learning in elementary school, as well as incorporating new subjects that will assist them in college or real world employment.

Special Education Teachers- These teachers most commonly work at private and public schools teaching students with disabilities. Disabilities may include, mental retardation, speech impairments, developmental disabilities, hearing impairments, and visual impairments.

Vocational and Technical School Teachers- Often employed at vocation or technical schools, these teachers may also teach students through distance learning programs. Vocational and technical school teachers instruct students in a variety of career fields, such as business, technology, healthcare, etc.

Adult Education Teachers- Most commonly known as professors, adult education teachers are most often employed at community colleges or universities. These teachers are usually trained in a specific subject or concentration. They may teach their students in a traditional classroom or in a virtual classroom.

Though requirements vary by state, all U.S. states require public school teachers to be licensed. All states require either a bachelor’s degree or the completion of an approved training/academic program. Teachers must also have a specific number of subject and education credits, along with supervised practice teaching experience.

Some teaching jobs may require a more specialized degree, such as a master’s or PhD. The requirements for private school teachers, college professors, and university professors vary depending upon the school, but many of these schools have similar and in some cases, stricter requirements.

The licensing requirements for preschool teachers also tend to vary by state. Certifications from a recognized authority, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree are the most common requirements.

The State Board of Education or a licensure advisory committee grants licenses to teachers. Aspiring teachers are tested on their knowledge of basic teaching skills, reading, and writing. Teachers who are subject based are often required to demonstrate proficiency in their subject or field.

In some states, alternative licensure programs are available to teachers who have a bachelor’s degree in a certain subject, but lack other requirements that are required for a regular teaching license.

The job outlook for teachers is expected to range between good and excellent. Job opportunities will vary depending upon the grade level and subject taught, place of employment, and geographic location. A demand is expected for vocational and technical teachers, special education teachers, and middle school and secondary school teachers.

Like job opportunities, the earnings for teachers vary depending upon the grade level and subject taught, place of employment, and geographic location. The median annual earnings for teachers is as follows:

Preschool Teachers- $21,000
Elementary, Middle and Secondary School Teachers- $43,000
Special Education Teachers- $41,000
Adult Education Teachers- $80,000