Math Teacher

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Overview

Math teachers are educators who specialize in teaching mathematics concepts and skills. Typically, math teachers teach middle school and high school students, although some may serve as math interventionists who specialize in teaching this subject area to elementary school students.

Math teachers educate students ongeneral mathematics concepts and principles, while also teaching critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills. They may teach general math to elementary students or specialized math to middle and high school students in areas such as geometry, algebra, statistics, trigonometry and calculus.

63%

Percentage of US adults surveyed who state math skills are “very important” in their personal life (See disclaimer 1 )

Math teachers are responsible for preparing students to succeed not only academically, but also vocationally and personally. Math skills are widely considered to be very important, both for work and everyday life. (See disclaimer 1 ) From navigating a car loan to planning an event to managing a household, math skills will play a significant role in each student’s life as they graduate and become active members of society.

It’s a math teacher’s job to inspire and empower students to approach mathematical problems with confidence.

Developing lesson plans and classroom activities

Assignments

Creating and grading assignments, quizzes and exams

Instruction

Instructing students in math concepts and problem-solving skills

Fostering a supportive and welcoming learning community

Behavior management

Establishing and enforcing classroom rules, and managing student behavior

Meetings

Meeting with parents to discuss student progress, and meeting with other faculty and administrative staff

Education

A math teacher needs postsecondary education in both mathematics and pedagogy, as well as student teaching experience, in order to obtain a teaching license or certification. The specific requirements to become a math teacher may vary from one state to the next. In addition, public school teachers must meet different requirements than private school teachers, as private schools establish their own requirements that are independent of state requirements.

(See disclaimer 3 ) Before beginning your pathway, research the requirements for your state and your desired work setting.

High School Diploma

Aspiring teachers should strive to do well in all high school subjects. For future math teachers, math classes will be particularly important. Take as many math classes as are available, and participate in opportunities beyond the classroom, such as volunteering to tutor students in math, joining the school math club and becoming a member of a mathematics honor society. (See disclaimer 4 )

College Degree

It’s typical for public school math teachers to need at least a bachelor’s degree , such as an education degree with a concentration in mathematics or math education. Although private school math teachers are not required by state regulations to have a specific degree, private schools generally look for baccalaureate-prepared teachers. (See disclaimer 3 )

Student Teaching Experience

Bachelor’s degree programs in education that lead to initial teacher licensure will generally include a student teaching experience. This is similar to an internship, and it’s typically required for licensure. (See disclaimer 3 ) During a student teaching experience, you will be placed in a classroom to be mentored by an experienced math teacher. You’ll practice teaching classes, planning lessons and working individually with students.

Licensure

All math teachers who plan to work in public…