4 answers
Mallory
Student
Big Lake, Minnesota
7
Questions
Asked
282 views
If I am thinking of being a teacher as a current junior in high school, what are are best classes I can be taking right now?
I am thinking of doing Elementary, Middle School, maybe high school. I've also thought about possibly adding Special Education to it as well or teaching English as a second language. I'm not sure what others have tried or what has worked and has not worked for people.
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4 answers
Jerry Tingstad
Professor/middle school teacher/48 years
93
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
First: Pay special attention to Darya's and Monica's answers. There is a wealth of information in their replies. I would spend quite a bit of time going through it all. Bit by bit.
From my point of view, there is a big difference between teaching grade school (one class of students being normal and the teacher does a range of subjects) and middle and high school where the teacher teaches one or maybe a second subject.
And I'm not sure what academic areas you are interested in. Aside from ESL.
I didn't teach ESL. But I spent ten years at a middle school (second career) teaching Modern European History (French Revolution onward) and competitive essay writing to students whom had English as a second language. Great fun. Not sure about doing ESL classes.
You have a lot to think about, though you have another year in high school to concentrate your thoughts. And once in an institution of higher learning, don't be afraid to change your mind. That's what the first two years are for.
And to teach, I should add, one has to have the "personality" for it. The most successful teachers I have known have the attitude with their students that "Were all in this together.". We're on the inside and everyone else is on the outside. Get their respect. Then they will want you to respect them. And the way to do that is they have to work hard and grow intellectually and emotionally. Of course you will then have to give them a good course.
With all your background in education there has to be teachers who have stood out in your mind. Why?
From my point of view, there is a big difference between teaching grade school (one class of students being normal and the teacher does a range of subjects) and middle and high school where the teacher teaches one or maybe a second subject.
And I'm not sure what academic areas you are interested in. Aside from ESL.
I didn't teach ESL. But I spent ten years at a middle school (second career) teaching Modern European History (French Revolution onward) and competitive essay writing to students whom had English as a second language. Great fun. Not sure about doing ESL classes.
You have a lot to think about, though you have another year in high school to concentrate your thoughts. And once in an institution of higher learning, don't be afraid to change your mind. That's what the first two years are for.
And to teach, I should add, one has to have the "personality" for it. The most successful teachers I have known have the attitude with their students that "Were all in this together.". We're on the inside and everyone else is on the outside. Get their respect. Then they will want you to respect them. And the way to do that is they have to work hard and grow intellectually and emotionally. Of course you will then have to give them a good course.
With all your background in education there has to be teachers who have stood out in your mind. Why?
Darya Tsitova
110
Answers
Grodno, Hrodna Region, Belarus
Updated
Darya’s Answer
Hi, Mallory! That's great to hear that you're interested in becoming a teacher! The path to becoming an educator can be rewarding and impactful. As a junior in high school, there are several classes you can take to help prepare you for a career in education, regardless of the age group or specialization you're considering. Here are some suggestions.
1.Core subjects
- Language arts. Strong reading and writing skills are essential for teaching, especially in elementary and middle schools. Advanced courses like ap english can also be beneficial.
- Mathematics. Take courses in algebra, geometry, and statistics. If you’re thinking about teaching middle or high school, advanced math classes will be particularly useful.
- Science. Biology, chemistry, and physical science are essential, especially for middle and high school certifications.
- Social studies/history. Courses in u.s. History, world history, and geography can build a strong foundation for teaching social studies.
2.Education and child development
- Child development/psychology. If your school offers any courses on child development or psychology, these can provide valuable insights on how children learn and develop.
- Intro to education/theory of education. If available, these courses can give you an overview of teaching methods and educational theory.
3.Language and cultural studies
- Foreign language. Studying a foreign language can be particularly beneficial if you're considering teaching english as a second language or if you're interested in bilingual education.
4.Volunteering and extracurricular activities
- Tutoring or mentoring. Volunteering as a tutor or in after-school programs can provide hands-on experience working with students.
- Join education-focused clubs. If your school has a future teachers of america club or similar organization, consider joining. It’s a great way to connect with peers interested in education.
Additional tips!!
- Talk to teachers and guidance counselors. They can provide insight into what courses might be most beneficial based on your specific interests in education.
- Research college programs. Look into the college programs that interest you for teaching and find out what prerequisites they recommend.
Ultimately, the classes you choose can help you build a strong foundation for your teaching career, but gaining practical experience through volunteering and extracurriculars will also be invaluable. I hope I helped you and make the situation more clear. Best of luck on your journey to becoming an educator! With love, Darya
1.Core subjects
- Language arts. Strong reading and writing skills are essential for teaching, especially in elementary and middle schools. Advanced courses like ap english can also be beneficial.
- Mathematics. Take courses in algebra, geometry, and statistics. If you’re thinking about teaching middle or high school, advanced math classes will be particularly useful.
- Science. Biology, chemistry, and physical science are essential, especially for middle and high school certifications.
- Social studies/history. Courses in u.s. History, world history, and geography can build a strong foundation for teaching social studies.
2.Education and child development
- Child development/psychology. If your school offers any courses on child development or psychology, these can provide valuable insights on how children learn and develop.
- Intro to education/theory of education. If available, these courses can give you an overview of teaching methods and educational theory.
3.Language and cultural studies
- Foreign language. Studying a foreign language can be particularly beneficial if you're considering teaching english as a second language or if you're interested in bilingual education.
4.Volunteering and extracurricular activities
- Tutoring or mentoring. Volunteering as a tutor or in after-school programs can provide hands-on experience working with students.
- Join education-focused clubs. If your school has a future teachers of america club or similar organization, consider joining. It’s a great way to connect with peers interested in education.
Additional tips!!
- Talk to teachers and guidance counselors. They can provide insight into what courses might be most beneficial based on your specific interests in education.
- Research college programs. Look into the college programs that interest you for teaching and find out what prerequisites they recommend.
Ultimately, the classes you choose can help you build a strong foundation for your teaching career, but gaining practical experience through volunteering and extracurriculars will also be invaluable. I hope I helped you and make the situation more clear. Best of luck on your journey to becoming an educator! With love, Darya
Monica Chibuogwu
Educational Consulting/Counseling
69
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hi Mallory, trust you are fine ☺️
I'm thrilled to hear that you're considering a career in teaching. That's amazing! As a junior in high school, you're taking proactive steps to explore your passion, and I'm happy to guide you.
To prepare yourself for a teaching career, focusing on Elementary, Middle School, and High School education, with possible specializations in Special Education or English as a Second Language (ESL), let's check out some valuable classes to take:
Core Classes👇🏽
🧩Child Development or Psychology: Understand child growth, development, and learning processes.
🧩English (Advanced or Honors): Develop strong language and literature skills.
🧩Math (Algebra, Geometry, or Calculus): Build a solid math foundation.
Electives and Recommendations👇🏽
🧩Education or Teaching Assistant courses (if available): Gain hands-on experience.
🧩Language Arts or Communication: Enhance writing, speaking, and presentation skills.
🧩Foreign Language (e.g., Spanish, French): Develop language skills and cultural awareness.
🧩Special Education or Adaptive Education: Explore strategies for diverse learners.
🧩Speech or Debate: Improve public speaking and communication.
🧩Leadership or Peer Mentoring: Develop leadership and mentoring skills.
🧩Volunteer or Service Learning: Engage in community service, tutoring, or mentoring.
Additional Suggestions👇🏽
🧩Observe or shadow teachers in different grade levels and settings.
🧩Join education-related clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities.
🧩Participate in tutoring or mentoring programs.
🧩Research teaching methodologies, educational technology, and curriculum design.
🧩Network with teachers, educators, or professionals in related fields.
Special Education and ESL Considerations👇🏽
🧩Take courses that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
🧩Explore American Sign Language (ASL) or other languages.
🧩Learn about assistive technology and accommodations.
🧩Research cultural diversity and linguistically diverse education.
What Others Have Tried👇🏽
Many aspiring teachers have found value in👇🏽
👉🏽Participating in summer teaching programs or internships.
👉🏽Joining education-focused college programs or camps.
👉🏽Seeking guidance from teachers, mentors, or school counselors.
👉🏽Gaining experience through volunteer work or tutoring.
Words of Encouragement👇🏽
💎Teaching is a rewarding profession that requires patience, empathy, and dedication.
💎Stay flexible and open-minded; your interests may evolve.
💎Seek feedback from educators and mentors.
💎Remember, teaching is a lifelong learning process.
While it's valuable to learn from others' experiences, don't compare your journey to theirs. Invest in self-reflection, identifying what sets you apart, and leveraging those qualities. Embrace your distinct approach, perspective, and teaching style. Consider how you relate with people, how they respond to you, and how you can foster a love for learning.
Your uniqueness is your greatest asset. Focus on cultivating an environment where students thrive under your guidance, and your passion inspires a love for learning.
You're taking the right steps by exploring your interests and seeking guidance. Keep being curious, and don't hesitate to reach out to educators or professionals in the field. You're going to make a fantastic teacher✨✨✨
I'm rooting for you 🙌
I'm thrilled to hear that you're considering a career in teaching. That's amazing! As a junior in high school, you're taking proactive steps to explore your passion, and I'm happy to guide you.
To prepare yourself for a teaching career, focusing on Elementary, Middle School, and High School education, with possible specializations in Special Education or English as a Second Language (ESL), let's check out some valuable classes to take:
Core Classes👇🏽
🧩Child Development or Psychology: Understand child growth, development, and learning processes.
🧩English (Advanced or Honors): Develop strong language and literature skills.
🧩Math (Algebra, Geometry, or Calculus): Build a solid math foundation.
Electives and Recommendations👇🏽
🧩Education or Teaching Assistant courses (if available): Gain hands-on experience.
🧩Language Arts or Communication: Enhance writing, speaking, and presentation skills.
🧩Foreign Language (e.g., Spanish, French): Develop language skills and cultural awareness.
🧩Special Education or Adaptive Education: Explore strategies for diverse learners.
🧩Speech or Debate: Improve public speaking and communication.
🧩Leadership or Peer Mentoring: Develop leadership and mentoring skills.
🧩Volunteer or Service Learning: Engage in community service, tutoring, or mentoring.
Additional Suggestions👇🏽
🧩Observe or shadow teachers in different grade levels and settings.
🧩Join education-related clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities.
🧩Participate in tutoring or mentoring programs.
🧩Research teaching methodologies, educational technology, and curriculum design.
🧩Network with teachers, educators, or professionals in related fields.
Special Education and ESL Considerations👇🏽
🧩Take courses that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
🧩Explore American Sign Language (ASL) or other languages.
🧩Learn about assistive technology and accommodations.
🧩Research cultural diversity and linguistically diverse education.
What Others Have Tried👇🏽
Many aspiring teachers have found value in👇🏽
👉🏽Participating in summer teaching programs or internships.
👉🏽Joining education-focused college programs or camps.
👉🏽Seeking guidance from teachers, mentors, or school counselors.
👉🏽Gaining experience through volunteer work or tutoring.
Words of Encouragement👇🏽
💎Teaching is a rewarding profession that requires patience, empathy, and dedication.
💎Stay flexible and open-minded; your interests may evolve.
💎Seek feedback from educators and mentors.
💎Remember, teaching is a lifelong learning process.
While it's valuable to learn from others' experiences, don't compare your journey to theirs. Invest in self-reflection, identifying what sets you apart, and leveraging those qualities. Embrace your distinct approach, perspective, and teaching style. Consider how you relate with people, how they respond to you, and how you can foster a love for learning.
Your uniqueness is your greatest asset. Focus on cultivating an environment where students thrive under your guidance, and your passion inspires a love for learning.
You're taking the right steps by exploring your interests and seeking guidance. Keep being curious, and don't hesitate to reach out to educators or professionals in the field. You're going to make a fantastic teacher✨✨✨
I'm rooting for you 🙌
Suzanne Day
EDUC|EDUCATION
4
Answers
Pearl River, New York
Updated
Suzanne’s Answer
Based on the grade level you wish to teach, teachers need to be well versed in all subject areas. My greatest recommendation would be instead determining what classes you should take I highly suggest you volunteer in different classrooms to see what grade level of students you wish to work with. If you like elementary- focus your studies of reading and foundational skills instruction; as everything relates to reading in the earlyy grades. Intermediate/high school - select a subject you enjoy most and focus your studies on that (example Foreign Language, Science, Literacy, etc..). All the other course suggested will support you when you enter College.
If you choose Special Education with ESL you will always find employment. It is key to have a specialty and there is a growing need to support MLL in the US and many students who should be classified as Special Ed may be overlooked due to language barriers. Having a degree/specialty in Special Ed or ESL will allow you to work in or out of the classroom; as well as in or out of a school setting. There is a lack of Special Ed and MLL teachers therefore there is always a need in every school district in America.
Volunteer in classrooms or camp like settings to gain experience working with kids.
If you choose Special Education with ESL you will always find employment. It is key to have a specialty and there is a growing need to support MLL in the US and many students who should be classified as Special Ed may be overlooked due to language barriers. Having a degree/specialty in Special Ed or ESL will allow you to work in or out of the classroom; as well as in or out of a school setting. There is a lack of Special Ed and MLL teachers therefore there is always a need in every school district in America.
Suzanne recommends the following next steps: