Career Defined for 11th Grade Teachers
An 11th grade teacher is a secondary school educator who instructs students in a specialized topic such as natural science, language, social science, or physical education. They are responsible for planning and executing lessons, maintaining an orderly classroom environment, and evaluating students to determine their ability and areas for improvement. Typical daily duties include preparing lectures, visual aids and other teaching materials, working with students, updating student records, and grading coursework.
Most 11th grade teachers are employed by public or private schools and work the standard school hours for their institutions. They typically have to complete other tasks, such as preparing lessons and grading assignments in the evening or on weekends. Teachers who oversee clubs or athletics may also work around school hours. In schools with a traditional academic year, 11th grade teachers have a 2-month summer break; some teachers conduct summer programs during this time.
| Education | Bachelor's in chosen field and completion of teacher preparation training |
| Job Duties | Preparing lectures, working with students, grading coursework |
| Median Salary (2021) | $61,820 (all high school teachers) |
| Job Growth (2021-2031) | 5% (all high school teachers) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Educational Requirements
Most 11th grade teachers lead classes consistent with the majors they pursued in their bachelor's degree programs. In addition, they usually receive teacher preparation training, which may include courses in education and child psychology as well as a student teaching experience. While private school teachers are not bound by state requirements, these schools often hire candidates with bachelor's degrees in a particular field.
Licensing Requirements
To teach in public schools, 11th grade teachers must earn a teaching license in their state. Each state has its own requirements, but licensure typically requires a bachelor's degree, participation in a teacher preparation program, and completion of supervised student teaching. Most states also require a general teaching test and an exam in the educator's area of expertise. Some 11th grade teachers must complete a master's degree program or pursue annual continuing education courses to maintain licensure. Teachers in private schools do not need to be licensed.
Required Skills
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), successful 11th grade teachers have the following qualities:
- Excellent communication skills with their students, both in and out of the classroom
- Ability to relate concepts to students of all levels and develop creative lessons
- Patience and stress management skills when faced with difficult students or inadequate resources
- Ability to work with parents and school officials toward the betterment of students
Employment and Salary Outlook
The BLS reported that teaching positions in high schools, including jobs for 11th grade teachers, were projected to grow 5% from 2021-2031. Job prospects in public schools are often dependent on local and state budgets; employment increases should be greatest in the Southwestern regions of the country, as well as urban and rural areas, according to the BLS. Math, science, special education and English as a second language (ESL) teachers are especially in demand. In 2021, high school teachers earned a median salary of $61,820, as reported by the BLS.
