FAQs for High School Students - MO Center for Math & Science Teacher Education
Q1. If I'd like to become a teacher, what should I major in as an undergraduate?
A1. If the school you're going to attend offers a major in Education, consider pursuing that in addition to a degree in Mathematics or one of the Sciences. Some schools offer a degree in mathematics or science education.
 
Q2. What if the college I'd like to attend doesn't offer a degree in education?
A2. Check out this website's list of accredited colleges and universities in Missouri that offer alternative certification options. Often one or two post-baccalaureate years will be enough for certification and perhaps a Master's in Education. In the meantime, contact these program directors to find out what additional courses you can take to your current major. How about Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, or Environmental Science? In many cases, you can work as a full-time teacher under a Temporary Authorization Certificate while taking Education classes in the evenings and summer.
 
Q3. If my school participates in the A+ program, can I still attend a 2-year college and then become a teacher?
A3. Good question. It is up to the institution,to which you transfer to determine which of your credits will transfer. Talk with an advisor from both 2- year and 4 -year colleges to find out which courses you should be taking during your freshman and sophomore years so that you will be credited with them in your junior year.
 
Q4. Are there any scholarships available to freshman education majors?
A4. Check out the scholarships page on this website. There are several scholarships available from the state of Missouri or various teachers' organizations. In addition, your college may offer several scholarships geared to education majors. Check the edcation unit on campus.
 
Q5. When can I become a substitute teacher?
A5. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education requires at least 60 hours of college credit and a background check before one can become a substitute. However, the school district in your area may require more. Check the their superintendent's office to find out more information. A listing of school district's websites is available at: http://www.dese.state.mo.us/links/School_Home_Pages/District/
 
Q6. How much are teachers in Missouri paid?
A6. The current salary range in Missouri for first-year teachers with a Bachelor's degree is $22,435.00 to $29,301.00. Each district has its own career and salary schedule. More information on specific district's pay schedule is available at: http://www.msta.org/services/salary/index.asp.
 
Q7. How easy is it for me to transfer my certification in Missouri to other states?
A7. This depends on the state. Since each state has different certification requirements, you should check the state's Department of Education website.
 
Q8. What are some other career opportunities I would have if I were to major in education?
A8. In addition to teaching, a major in Education could be the first step towards a job as a school psychologist, school counselor, or educational administrator. Many businesses want educators to conduct employee training. A comprehensive list of such careers can be found at Minot State University's website.
 
Q9. What are some other career opportunities I would have if I were to major in mathematics or science?
A9. The career possibilities with a major in mathematics or science are limitless: from teaching to research to accounting. Many undergraduates with a major in mathematics or one of the sciences choose to pursue graduate study or professional school to become university professors, dentists, actuaries, veterenatirans, or chemical engineers. A comprehensive list of such careers can be found at Minot State University's website.
 
Q10. How many hours per week does a teacher work?
A10. It is hard to quantify the time that teachers spend preparing for and teaching class. A common misconception is that teaching is a very easy profession. After all, teachers "get out of school at 3 pm and don't have to work during the summer." However, teachers spend many hours out of class grading papers and preparing lessons. Conscientious teachers spend summers taking professional development courses and preparing for the next school year.
 
Q11. What high school and college activities should I be involved in to help me decide whether teaching math or science is the career for me?
A11. If your high school has a chapter of the Future Teachers of America or any other teaching club, that could give you valuable experience. Also, a mathematics or science-oriented club, such as MathCounts or Science Olympiad will help you explore the worlds of math and science. In college, join the student chapter of the Missouri State Teacher's Association, the Missouri Council of Teachers of Mathematics, or the National Science Teacher's Association. Such clubs provide members opportunities to volunteer and learn more about teaching, as well as valuable networking possibilities.
 
Q12. What kind of personality or skills should I possess to be a good teacher?
A12. Good teachers possess many diverse qualities such as: patience, compassion, enthusiasm for their subject, persistence and dedication. If you do not naturally have one or more of these qualities, you can work to develop them.
 
Q13. What kind of high school courses should I take to prepare me for the courses I would be taking in college?
A13. In addition to the full complement of mathematics and science your high school offers, most colleges value strong preparation in English. Other good options to prepare you for a major in Education include courses in Child Development, Psychology, or Cadet Teaching if your high school offers them. Take honors courses where available. This will help prepare you for the rigors of college.
 
Q14. Have more questions about becoming a teacher?
A14. The best and easiest place to turn is your current mathematics or science teacher. Having been through the process you are considering, he or she is a natural place to turn for more information.