Middle School Vocational Teachers: Schools and Careers

Middle School Vocational Teachers - Career Information

Middle school vocational teachers provide instructions on vocational or occupational subjects such as healthcare, technology, communications and business. They have experience in skill-based occupations and offer students a solid foundation in those skills.

Middle school vocational teachers typically provide courses that are in high demand by local companies. They evaluate their students performance and knowledge on subjects. They also explore career areas with their students. Vocational teachers are employed in public and private schools. Some in the profession teach a variety of subjects and others have a specialty.

Responsibilities

• Prepare materials for classes
• Assign and grade coursework
• Create and enforce rules for behavior and procedures
• Observe and evaluate students' performance
• Maintain student records
• Attend staff meetings

Job Characteristics

Middle school vocational teachers should have good communication and organizing skills and they should enjoy helping others. Also, most work the standard school year.

Employment Outlook

Employment of middle school teachers is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations. Growth rates will also vary by regions of the country. The amount of middle school teachers positions depends on state and local expenditures on education as well as legislation. Vocational teachers are in demand in various subjects at middle schools.

Some begin their careers in the profession by taking teaching assistant positions in vocational programs. Typically the assistant jobs are provided to those who graduated from vocational programs near the top of their class.

The median annual earnings for middle school vocational teachers in 2007 was $46,290. There were approximately 15,260 positions in 2007. Vocational teachers typically receive health and life insurance and vacation time.

Education, Certification, and Licensing

The education and training requirements for middle school vocational teachers vary by state and by the subject. Typically, teachers need a bachelor's degree and at least three years of work experience in their specialty. Some of the specialties require a license or certification. However, some states provide a license to vocational teachers that do not have a degree if they have knowledge, skills and experience in the subject. Many vocational teachers continue their own education to stay updated in their field, particularly those who teach in technology subjects.

Resources

• Association for Career and Technical Education
• International Vocational Education and Training Association
• National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education

Major Employers

The primary employers of middle school vocational teachers are public schools.

Schools for Middle School Vocational Teachers are listed in the column to the left.

The Top Cities tab shows employment statistics for Middle School Vocational Teachers by major metro area.

The Top Industries tab shows which industries have the most jobs for Middle School Vocational Teachers, along with salary data by industry.

The Find Schools tab lets you search for schools by field of study, degree level, and location.