High School Teacher - The 100 Best Jobs and Careers for 2013

You'll need a talent for dealing with teens and a keen interest in teaching at least one specialized subject if you're going to be a high-school teacher (also known as secondary-school teachers). Teachers at this level specialize in subjects such as English, math, chemistry and art. In a typically large suburban high school, where the student body circulates among five or six classes, you could teach more than 100 different students every day. You'll also have a counseling role, helping students with adult issues that they are already experiencing or soon will, and advising them on college and career plans. Additional responsibilities can include study-hall duty, advising, organizing field trips, and leading extracurricular activities.
 The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 6.9 percent employment growth for high-school teachers between 2010 and 2020, adding 71,900 more positions. The demand for teachers mirrors population growth.
Salary
 The BLS reports the median annual wage for high-school teachers was $54,270 in 2011. The best-paid 10 percent in the field made approximately $84,000, while the bottom 10 percent made approximately $35,940. The highest-paid in the profession work in the metropolitan areas of New York City and Chicago. Compensation is usually subject to years of experience and educational level. Additionally, salaries and benefit packages can differ at public and private institutions.Salary Range
75th Percentile $68,150
Median $54,270
25th Percentile $43,540
Training
 The requirements for a high-school teacher depend on whether they're employed by a public or private institution. In addition to receiving their bachelor's degree, educators at public schools must obtain a state-issued license. These licenses are frequently achieved through a teacher-education program. Prospective teachers at four-year colleges usually enroll in this program concurrently to save time and money, and often complete a student-teaching internship as part of their training. Future educators should attend a nationally accredited program. Each state and the District of Columbia have their own licensing requirements, although some states recognize the licenses of others and extend reciprocity to individuals holding sufficient credentials. Private-school educators have noticeably less red tape. Most private institutions lack the licensing requirements of public schools, but usually require a bachelor's degree.