Nature of the Work

High School mathematics includes a wide variety of courses, including algebra I, algebra II, geometry, trigonometry, pre-calculus, and calculus. Teaching high school math can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding careers a person can choose. Mathematics are a critical part of high school education, but many students find math to be one of the most difficult subjects. High school math teachers often teach a variety of courses throughout the day to students with a wide range of abilities.

High school math teachers should keep in mind the great importance of the subjects they are teaching, both in the individual lives of their students and in the development of this nation. Well-developed math skills are critical to ensuring that students score well on standardized tests needed to enter college. Also, the national discussion about improving Americans’ math scores as a whole in relation to those of students in other developed countries has put pressure on schools to find qualified math teachers. With an increasing need in this country for qualified workers in science and technology, high school math teachers have the opportunity to open their students’ eyes to a new world with the language of numbers and to set them on the path toward successful careers.

In addition to teaching their regular mathematics courses, high school math teachers may also serve as homeroom teachers and supervisors for various extra-curricular organizations, including math teams or math honor societies.

Teaching Methods for High School Math Teachers

Because math is such an important yet challenging subject for most high school students, high school math teachers should employ a variety of techniques to ensure that their students understand the material. Reviewing homework assignments, providing plenty of examples of new concepts, promoting a friendly environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, and being available outside of class time for students who need additional help are all ways that High School Math teachers can help to ensure that students understand and retain the vital skills taught in the classroom.

Job Opportunities for High School Math Teachers

Currently, many school districts have difficulty hiring high school math teachers. For this reason, many job opportunities are available for those who are qualified. Rural and inner-city schools, where the need for quality teachers is often most great, provide even greater job opportunities for prospective math teachers.

Requirements for High School Math Teachers

High school math teachers in the state of Texas are required to have a bachelor’s degree with a 2.5 GPA in at least 36 semester mathematics courses, including at least 12 hours of upper-level mathematics. To work in a Texas public school, applicants must be enrolled in an alternative certification program and have passed their content area exam. By passing the TExES content area exam, teaching candidates are consider highly qualified under the No Child Left Behind guidelines.

Alternative Certification Programs are attractive options for individuals who would like to become a teacher without taking classes in a college or university.

The Web-Centric Alternative Certification Program (WCACP) provides a path for individuals to obtain teaching certification from the comfort of their own home. The courses, videoconferences and chats are conducted 100 percent online, so students can work at their own pace. Some students finish in 12 weeks, while others take more time and work a full time job while studying.

Individuals interested in teaching High School Math can benefit from the 8-12 High School Math content area. Completing the WCACP with the High School Math specialization provides a certification to teach eighth– twelfth grade High School Math in any school district, accredited private school, or charter school in the state of Texas.