Career Pathways View

Career List Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education
Career Counselling/Overview

### Career Overview: Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education
#### Education and Training Required
To become a middle school teacher, you typically need:
– **Bachelor’s Degree**: A degree in education or a specific subject area (like mathematics, science, or English) is essential.
– **Teaching Certification**: Most states require teachers to obtain a teaching license or certification, which usually involves passing exams and completing a student teaching internship.
– **Continuing Education**: Some states require ongoing professional development to maintain licensure.
#### Typical Job Duties and Responsibilities
Middle school teachers are responsible for:
– **Developing Lesson Plans**: Creating engaging and effective lesson plans that meet curriculum standards.
– **Teaching Subjects**: Delivering instruction in various subjects such as math, science, English, and social studies.
– **Assessing Student Progress**: Evaluating student performance through tests, assignments, and observations.
– **Classroom Management**: Maintaining a positive and productive classroom environment.
– **Communicating with Parents**: Engaging with parents about their child’s progress and addressing concerns.
#### Earning Potential
– **Short-Term**: The average starting salary for a middle school teacher can range from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location and school district.
– **Long-Term**: With experience and advanced degrees, salaries can increase to $60,000 to $80,000 or more, particularly in regions with higher living costs or in administrative roles.
#### Opportunities for Career Advancement
– **Advanced Degrees**: Pursuing a master’s degree or doctorate can lead to higher salaries and positions such as curriculum coordinator or school administrator.
– **Specialized Roles**: Teachers can also specialize in areas like educational technology, counseling, or special education.
– **Leadership Positions**: Opportunities to take on roles such as department head or mentor teacher are available.
#### Biggest Challenges and Overcoming Them
– **Classroom Management**: Managing a diverse group of students can be challenging. Strategies include establishing clear rules and building strong relationships with students.
– **Workload**: Teachers often face heavy workloads. Effective time management and organizational skills can help mitigate this.
– **Emotional Strain**: Supporting students emotionally can be taxing. Seeking mentorship and professional development in mental health can provide valuable tools.
#### Gaining Experience and Building a Network
– **Internships and Student Teaching**: Participate in student teaching programs during college to gain hands-on experience.

Overview

Middle school teachers, except special and vocational education, are educators who work with students in grades 6 to 8. They are responsible for teaching a variety of subjects, such as math, science, English, social studies, and more. These teachers create lesson plans, deliver instruction, assess student learning, and provide feedback to help students succeed academically.
In addition to teaching academic subjects, middle school teachers also play a crucial role in supporting students’ social and emotional development during this critical stage of adolescence. They may serve as mentors, counselors, and advocates for their students, helping them navigate the challenges of middle school and prepare for high school and beyond.
Middle school teachers work in public and private schools, and they typically work full-time during the school year. They may also participate in extracurricular activities, parent-teacher conferences, and professional development opportunities to enhance their teaching skills.
Overall, a career as a middle school teacher can be rewarding and fulfilling for individuals who are passionate about education and making a positive impact on young students’ lives.

Career Category

Education & Training

Career Type

Stable Careers

Fun Fact

Here are some interesting facts about the career of Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education:
1. Middle school teachers typically work with students in grades 6-8, helping them transition from elementary school to high school.
2. These teachers play a crucial role in shaping students’ academic and social development during a critical period of their lives.
3. Middle school teachers often specialize in a particular subject area, such as math, science, English, or social studies.
4. They create lesson plans, assess student progress, and provide individualized support to help students succeed.
5. Middle school teachers may also be involved in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports teams, or academic competitions.
6. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for middle school teachers was $59,660 in May 2020.
7. The demand for middle school teachers is expected to grow in the coming years, as student enrollment increases and current teachers retire.
Overall, being a middle school teacher can be a rewarding and fulfilling career for those who are passionate about education and making a positive impact on young people’s lives.

Educational Requirements

To become a Middle School Teacher, Except Special and Vocational Education, you typically need the following education requirements and training:
1. Education:
– A bachelor’s degree in education or in a specific subject area (such as math, science, English, etc.) with a focus on middle school education.
– Some states may require teachers to have a master’s degree in education or a related field.
2. Teacher Certification:
– Most states require middle school teachers to be licensed or certified to teach in public schools. This usually involves completing a teacher education program and passing state exams.
3. Student Teaching:
– Many teacher education programs include a student teaching component where aspiring teachers gain hands-on experience in a classroom under the supervision of an experienced teacher.
4. Continuing Education:
– Middle school teachers are often required to participate in professional development activities to maintain their teaching license and stay current with teaching methods and curriculum changes.
5. Specialization:
– Some middle school teachers may choose to specialize in a specific subject area or pursue additional certifications to teach special education or English as a Second Language (ESL) students.
Overall, becoming a middle school teacher requires a combination of education, training, certification, and ongoing professional development to be successful in the field.

Key Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities and job duties for Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education include:
1. Planning and delivering lessons in accordance with the school curriculum.
2. Creating a positive and supportive learning environment for students.
3. Assessing students’ progress and providing feedback on their academic performance.
4. Developing and implementing classroom rules and disciplinary procedures.
5. Collaborating with other teachers, parents, and administrators to support student learning.
6. Providing extra help to students who are struggling academically.
7. Organizing and supervising extracurricular activities and events.
8. Keeping accurate records of students’ attendance, grades, and behavior.
9. Attending staff meetings and professional development sessions to stay current on educational trends and best practices.
10. Communicating regularly with parents to discuss students’ progress and address any concerns.
Overall, the key responsibilities of a Middle School Teacher involve creating a stimulating learning environment, supporting students’ academic and personal development, and fostering a positive school community.

Average Salary Range

The average salary for Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education, can vary depending on factors such as location, level of experience, and type of school. However, in the United States, the average annual salary for middle school teachers is around $59,660, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In the short term, as a new middle school teacher, you can expect to earn an entry-level salary which may be lower than the average. As you gain more experience and possibly pursue additional education or certifications, your earning potential can increase.
In the long term, middle school teachers have the opportunity to advance in their careers by taking on leadership roles, such as becoming department heads, curriculum coordinators, or even school administrators. These positions often come with higher salaries and increased earning potential.
Overall, while the salary for middle school teachers may not be as high as some other professions, there are opportunities for growth and advancement in the field that can lead to a higher earning potential in the long term.

Career Path & Progression

Career Path:
1. Education and Certification: To become a middle school teacher, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. Some states also require teachers to obtain a teaching license or certification.
2. Entry-Level Position: Most individuals start their career as a student teacher or substitute teacher before securing a full-time position as a middle school teacher.
3. Classroom Teacher: As a middle school teacher, you will be responsible for planning and delivering lessons, assessing student progress, and creating a positive learning environment.
4. Specialization: Teachers may choose to specialize in a particular subject area or grade level to enhance their expertise and career opportunities.
Career Progression:
1. Lead Teacher: Experienced middle school teachers may take on leadership roles within their school, such as becoming a lead teacher who mentors and supports other educators.
2. Department Chair: Teachers can advance to the position of department chair, where they oversee a specific subject area and collaborate with other teachers to improve curriculum and instruction.
3. Curriculum Specialist: Some teachers transition into roles as curriculum specialists, where they design and implement instructional materials and programs to enhance student learning.
4. Administrator: With additional education and experience, middle school teachers can pursue roles as school administrators, such as assistant principal or principal.
Opportunities for Career Advancement:
1. Professional Development: Continuing education, workshops, and conferences can help teachers stay current with best practices in education and advance their careers.
2. Advanced Degrees: Pursuing a master’s degree or a doctorate in education can open up opportunities for higher-paying positions and leadership roles in the field.
3. National Board Certification: Achieving National Board Certification demonstrates a teacher’s commitment to excellence and can lead to increased job opportunities and salary advancement.
4. Professional Organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the National Education Association (NEA) or the Association for Middle Level Education (AMLE) can provide networking opportunities and support for career advancement.

Biggest challenges facing people in this career

Middle school teaching can be a rewarding yet challenging career. Some of the biggest challenges facing middle school teachers include:
1. **Classroom Management**: Middle school students are at a stage where they are transitioning from childhood to adolescence, which can lead to behavioral challenges in the classroom. Maintaining discipline and managing a classroom can be difficult.
2. **Diverse Learning Needs**: Middle school students come from various backgrounds and have different learning styles and abilities. It can be challenging to cater to the diverse needs of each student in a single classroom.
3. **Parental Involvement**: Engaging parents in their child’s education can be a challenge. Some parents may be uninvolved or difficult to communicate with, which can impact a student’s success in school.
4. **Workload**: Middle school teachers often have heavy workloads, including lesson planning, grading, extracurricular activities, and meetings. Balancing these responsibilities can be overwhelming.
To overcome these challenges, middle school teachers can:
1. **Establish Clear Expectations**: Setting clear rules and expectations from the beginning can help with classroom management. Consistent enforcement of rules and positive reinforcement can also promote good behavior.
2. **Differentiate Instruction**: Implementing various teaching strategies to accommodate different learning styles can help reach all students. Providing extra support for struggling students and challenging assignments for advanced learners can make a difference.
3. **Build Relationships**: Developing positive relationships with students and their parents can improve communication and engagement. Regular communication with parents, such as through emails, phone calls, or parent-teacher conferences, can foster a supportive partnership.
4. **Time Management**: Prioritizing tasks, organizing workload efficiently, and seeking support from colleagues can help manage the workload effectively. Setting boundaries and practicing self-care are also essential to prevent burnout.
By implementing these strategies and seeking professional development opportunities, middle school teachers can navigate the challenges of the profession and create a positive learning environment for their students.

Best ways to gain experience

For students interested in becoming Middle School Teachers, here are some of the best ways to gain experience and build a network in this field:
1. **Volunteer or intern at local schools**: Offer to volunteer or intern at a middle school to gain hands-on experience working with students and teachers. This will also help you build relationships with educators who can provide guidance and mentorship.
2. **Participate in education-related clubs or organizations**: Join clubs or organizations related to education, such as the Future Educators Association or the National Education Association, to connect with other aspiring teachers and professionals in the field.
3. **Attend education conferences and workshops**: Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to middle school education to learn about the latest trends and best practices in the field. These events are also great opportunities to network with educators and experts.
4. **Seek out teaching assistant or tutoring opportunities**: Look for opportunities to work as a teaching assistant or tutor at a local school or educational center. This will allow you to gain valuable experience working with students and supporting teachers in the classroom.
5. **Participate in student teaching programs**: If you are in college or pursuing a teaching degree, participate in student teaching programs to gain practical experience in a classroom setting under the supervision of a mentor teacher.
6. **Connect with alumni and professionals in the field**: Reach out to alumni from your school or professionals in the field of education to learn about their experiences and seek advice on how to pursue a career as a middle school teacher.
7. **Join online education communities**: Join online forums, social media groups, and education-focused websites to connect with other educators, share resources, and stay updated on the latest developments in the field.
By actively seeking out these opportunities and building a strong network of connections in the field of education, you can gain valuable experience and insights that will help you succeed as a middle school teacher.

Job Outlook

The current job prospects for Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education, are generally stable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of middle school teachers is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in about 40,200 new jobs in the field.
In the future, job prospects for middle school teachers may vary depending on factors such as population growth, changes in education policies, and funding for schools. With the increasing emphasis on personalized learning and the use of technology in education, there may be opportunities for teachers who are able to adapt to these trends.
Additionally, there may be a growing demand for middle school teachers in certain subject areas, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as special education. Teachers who are willing to pursue additional certifications or specializations in these areas may have better job prospects.
Overall, while the job prospects for middle school teachers are expected to remain stable, individuals who are flexible, adaptable, and willing to continue their professional development may have better opportunities in the field.

Required Skills

To succeed as a Middle School Teacher, Except Special and Vocational Education, individuals should possess the following skills and qualities:
1. **Strong Communication Skills**: Middle school teachers need to effectively communicate with students, parents, and colleagues to ensure a productive learning environment.
2. **Patience and Empathy**: Dealing with students in early adolescence requires patience and empathy to understand their needs and challenges.
3. **Classroom Management**: The ability to manage a classroom effectively, maintain discipline, and create a positive learning atmosphere is essential.
4. **Subject Knowledge**: A deep understanding of the subjects being taught and the ability to explain complex concepts in a way that middle school students can understand.
5. **Creativity**: Developing engaging lesson plans and activities to keep students interested and motivated.
6. **Adaptability**: Being able to adapt teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and abilities within the classroom.
7. **Organizational Skills**: Managing lesson plans, grading assignments, and keeping track of student progress requires strong organizational skills.
8. **Collaboration**: Working with other teachers, administrators, and parents to support student learning and development.
9. **Problem-Solving Skills**: Being able to address challenges that arise in the classroom and find effective solutions.
10. **Cultural Competence**: Understanding and respecting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students and incorporating this into teaching practices.
By possessing these skills and qualities, individuals can succeed in a career as a Middle School Teacher, Except Special and Vocational Education.

Career demand

Middle school teachers, except special and vocational education, are in demand in various sectors and industries, including:
1. Public and Private Schools: The most common sector where middle school teachers work is in public and private schools, teaching students in grades 6-8.
2. Tutoring Centers: Some middle school teachers work in tutoring centers, providing additional academic support to students who may be struggling or looking to excel in specific subjects.
3. Online Education Platforms: With the increasing popularity of online education, there is a demand for middle school teachers to develop and deliver online courses and virtual lessons.
4. Nonprofit Organizations: Some nonprofit organizations hire middle school teachers to lead educational programs and initiatives aimed at supporting underserved communities or specific student populations.
5. Educational Consultancies: Educational consultancies often hire middle school teachers to provide expertise in curriculum development, teacher training, and educational program evaluation.
6. Government Agencies: Middle school teachers may also find opportunities to work in government agencies that focus on education policy, curriculum development, or teacher training.
7. After-School Programs: Many after-school programs hire middle school teachers to provide academic support, enrichment activities, and supervision for students outside of regular school hours.
8. Homeschooling: Some middle school teachers choose to work with homeschooling families, providing educational instruction and support to students who are learning at home.
9. Education Technology Companies: Middle school teachers with a background in educational technology may find opportunities to work for companies that develop educational software, apps, or online learning platforms.
10. International Schools: Middle school teachers with a willingness to travel and work abroad may find opportunities to teach in international schools that cater to expatriate or local students.

Training & Certification

To become a Middle School Teacher, Except Special and Vocational Education, individuals typically need to have the following training and certifications to stand out:
1. Bachelor’s Degree in Education: Most middle school teachers are required to have a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. This degree provides the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach students in a middle school setting.
2. Teacher Certification: In addition to a bachelor’s degree, individuals need to obtain teacher certification or licensure in the state where they plan to teach. This certification typically involves passing exams and completing a student teaching internship.
3. Specialization in Middle School Education: Some teachers choose to specialize in middle school education, which involves taking additional courses or obtaining a certification specifically focused on teaching students in the middle school age range.
4. Professional Development Courses: Continuing education and professional development courses can help teachers stay current on the latest teaching methods and educational trends. These courses can also demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and improvement.
5. Technology Training: In today’s digital age, it is important for teachers to be proficient in using technology in the classroom. Training in educational technology tools and platforms can help teachers enhance their teaching methods and engage students more effectively.
6. Classroom Management Training: Effective classroom management is crucial for creating a positive learning environment. Training in classroom management techniques can help teachers maintain discipline, manage student behavior, and create a supportive atmosphere for learning.
By obtaining the necessary training and certifications, aspiring middle school teachers can stand out in the competitive field of education and demonstrate their commitment to providing quality education to students.

Work Environment

The work environment of Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education can vary depending on the school and location, but some common aspects include:
1. **Classrooms**: Middle school teachers typically have their own classrooms where they teach a specific subject or subjects. These classrooms are often equipped with desks, chairs, whiteboards or smartboards, and other educational materials.
2. **Collaboration**: Teachers may have opportunities to collaborate with other teachers, administrators, and support staff to develop curriculum, plan lessons, and address student needs.
3. **Technology**: Many classrooms are equipped with technology such as computers, tablets, and projectors to enhance the learning experience. Teachers may also use educational software and online resources to supplement their lessons.
4. **Student Diversity**: Middle school teachers work with a diverse group of students with varying abilities, backgrounds, and learning styles. They must be able to create inclusive and supportive environments for all students.
5. **Administrative Duties**: In addition to teaching, middle school teachers may have administrative duties such as grading assignments, communicating with parents, attending meetings, and participating in professional development activities.
6. **Classroom Management**: Teachers must maintain a positive and orderly learning environment by managing student behavior, enforcing rules, and addressing any disruptions that may arise.
7. **Professional Development**: Middle school teachers often participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with educational trends, teaching methods, and curriculum changes.
Overall, the work environment of Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education is dynamic, fast-paced, and rewarding, as they play a crucial role in shaping the academic and personal development of their students.

Industry Sectors

The Industry Sectors of the career Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education include:
1. Education
2. Government
3. Healthcare
4. Non-profit organizations
5. Private sector industries
6. Research institutions

Top Companies

Some of the top companies and organizations that hire Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education include:
1. Public school districts
2. Private schools
3. Charter schools
4. Education management organizations
5. Non-profit organizations focused on education
6. International schools
7. Education consulting firms
8. Online education platforms
9. Government agencies
10. Religious organizations with educational programs
These are just a few examples of the types of organizations that typically hire Middle School Teachers.

Tools & Technologies

Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education, use a variety of tools and technologies to enhance their teaching and engage their students. Some of the common tools and technologies used in this career include:
1. Interactive whiteboards: These are used to display lessons, videos, and interactive activities for students.
2. Educational software: Programs and applications that help teachers create lesson plans, assess student progress, and provide additional resources for learning.
3. Document cameras: These allow teachers to display physical documents, books, or objects to the entire class.
4. Learning management systems (LMS): Online platforms that help teachers organize and deliver course materials, assignments, and assessments.
5. Smartphones and tablets: Teachers may use these devices to access educational apps, communicate with students and parents, and conduct research.
6. Video conferencing tools: Used for virtual classroom sessions, parent-teacher conferences, and professional development opportunities.
7. Classroom response systems: Devices or apps that allow students to respond to questions and quizzes in real-time.
8. Online research databases: Teachers use these resources to find academic articles, lesson plans, and other educational materials.
9. Audiovisual equipment: Such as projectors, speakers, and microphones for multimedia presentations and demonstrations.
10. Augmented reality and virtual reality tools: These technologies can be used to create immersive learning experiences and simulations for students.
By incorporating these tools and technologies into their teaching practices, middle school teachers can create dynamic and engaging learning environments for their students.

Related Careers

1. High School Teachers
2. Elementary School Teachers
3. Special Education Teachers
4. School Counselors
5. Education Administrators
6. Curriculum Developers
7. Instructional Coordinators
8. Educational Consultants
9. Education Policy Analysts
10. School Psychologists

Internship Opportunities

Internship opportunities for aspiring middle school teachers, except special and vocational education, may include:
1. Classroom Assistant Internship: Assisting the teacher in lesson planning, classroom management, and student support.
2. Curriculum Development Internship: Participating in developing and designing educational materials and lesson plans.
3. Tutoring Internship: Providing one-on-one or small group tutoring to students in various subjects.
4. Observational Internship: Observing and shadowing experienced teachers to gain insight into teaching strategies and classroom management techniques.
5. Special Education Inclusion Internship: Assisting in inclusive classrooms to support students with special needs and learning differences.
6. After-School Program Internship: Working with students in extracurricular activities, homework help, and enrichment programs.
7. Educational Technology Internship: Learning to integrate technology into the classroom and assist with online learning platforms.
8. Community Outreach Internship: Collaborating with community organizations to develop educational programs and initiatives for students.
9. Professional Development Internship: Participating in workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.
10. Research Internship: Assisting in educational research projects to contribute to the field of education and gain valuable experience in data analysis and interpretation.

Remote Work Potential

The remote work potential for Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education is limited. While some aspects of teaching can be done remotely, such as lesson planning, grading assignments, and communicating with students and parents online, the core responsibilities of teaching typically require in-person interaction in a classroom setting. Middle school teachers often need to provide direct instruction, facilitate discussions, and assess student learning, which are best done in a traditional school environment. However, with advancements in technology and online learning platforms, there may be opportunities for some aspects of teaching to be conducted remotely in certain situations.

Specializations

Middle school teachers, except special and vocational education, can specialize in various subject areas based on their interests and expertise. Some common specialization areas for middle school teachers include:
1. English Language Arts: Focusing on teaching reading, writing, grammar, and literature.
2. Mathematics: Teaching concepts such as algebra, geometry, statistics, and calculus.
3. Science: Specializing in subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
4. Social Studies: Teaching history, geography, civics, economics, and anthropology.
5. Foreign Languages: Specializing in teaching languages such as Spanish, French, Mandarin, or German.
6. Special Education: Providing support and instruction to students with special needs.
7. Fine Arts: Teaching subjects like visual arts, music, drama, and dance.
8. Physical Education: Focusing on teaching sports, fitness, and health education.
These are just a few examples of specialization areas for middle school teachers. Depending on their interests and the needs of their school, teachers may choose to specialize in one or more of these areas to enhance their teaching skills and better serve their students.

Challenges & Rewards

Challenges:
1. Classroom management: Middle school students can be challenging to manage due to their energy levels and varying maturity levels.
2. Balancing individual needs: Middle school students have diverse learning styles and abilities, making it challenging to meet the needs of every student in the classroom.
3. Dealing with behavioral issues: Middle school is a time of significant social and emotional development, which can lead to behavioral issues that teachers must address.
4. Workload: Middle school teachers often have heavy workloads, including lesson planning, grading, and extracurricular responsibilities.
5. Parent communication: Communicating with parents can be challenging, especially when discussing sensitive issues or academic concerns.
Rewards:
1. Impacting young lives: Middle school teachers have the opportunity to shape young minds and make a lasting impact on their students’ academic and personal development.
2. Building relationships: Middle school teachers often form strong bonds with their students, providing mentorship and support during a crucial stage of their lives.
3. Professional growth: Teaching middle school can be a rewarding career that offers opportunities for professional development and growth.
4. Variety in daily tasks: Middle school teaching is dynamic and diverse, with each day presenting new challenges and opportunities for creativity.
5. Making a difference: Middle school teachers play a vital role in preparing students for high school and beyond, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

How to Get Started

To get started with a career as a Middle School Teacher, Except Special and Vocational Education, here are some steps you can take:
1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree: Most middle school teachers are required to have a bachelor’s degree in education or a specific subject area, such as math, science, English, or social studies.
2. Complete a Teacher Preparation Program: You will need to complete a teacher preparation program that includes supervised classroom experience. This program can be completed as part of your bachelor’s degree or as a post-graduate program.
3. Obtain Certification: In addition to completing a teacher preparation program, you will need to obtain state certification or licensure to teach in public schools. Requirements vary by state, so be sure to check the specific requirements in the state where you plan to teach.
4. Gain Experience: Consider gaining experience working with middle school-aged students through internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs. This experience can help you build your skills and understanding of this age group.
5. Develop Strong Communication and Classroom Management Skills: Middle school teachers need to be able to effectively communicate with students, parents, and colleagues. They also need strong classroom management skills to create a positive and productive learning environment.
6. Stay Current: Stay up-to-date on the latest teaching methods, technologies, and trends in education. Consider attending professional development workshops or pursuing advanced degrees to enhance your skills and knowledge.
By following these steps and continuously seeking opportunities for growth and development, you can start a successful career as a Middle School Teacher, Except Special and Vocational Education.

Famous Personalities

Some famous and distinguished personalities in the career of Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Vocational Education include:
1. Jaime Escalante
2. Erin Gruwell
3. Rafe Esquith
4. LouAnne Johnson
5. Ron Clark

Global Opportunities

Middle school teaching is a career that offers various global opportunities for those interested in teaching at the middle school level. Some of the global opportunities for middle school teachers, except special and vocational education, include:
1. **International Schools:** Many countries have international schools that cater to expatriate families and local students seeking a global education. Middle school teachers can find opportunities to teach in these schools in countries around the world.
2. **Teaching Abroad Programs:** There are various programs that facilitate teaching opportunities for educators to teach abroad. These programs can place middle school teachers in schools in different countries for a certain period, allowing them to gain international teaching experience.
3. **International Organizations:** Organizations such as UNESCO, UNICEF, and international schools affiliated with multinational corporations often hire middle school teachers to work in various countries to provide education to children of expatriates or local communities.
4. **Language Institutes:** Middle school teachers with expertise in teaching English as a second language (ESL) or foreign languages can find opportunities to teach in language institutes in different countries, helping students improve their language skills.
5. **Online Teaching:** With the rise of online education, middle school teachers can explore opportunities to teach students from different countries through virtual classrooms, providing them with a global teaching experience.
6. **Cultural Exchange Programs:** Some organizations and schools offer cultural exchange programs that allow middle school teachers to teach in a different country while immersing themselves in the local culture and education system.
7. **Nonprofit Organizations:** Nonprofit organizations working in the field of education may have opportunities for middle school teachers to volunteer or work in schools in various countries, especially in developing regions.
8. **International Schools Network:** Some education networks operate multiple schools in different countries, providing opportunities for middle school teachers to work in various locations within the same network.
Overall, the field of middle school teaching offers a range of global opportunities for educators looking to broaden their horizons, gain international experience, and make a difference in the lives of students around the world.

Common misconceptions people have about this career

Common misconception: Middle school teachers only work from 9 am to 3 pm and have summers off.
Reality: While middle school teachers do have summers off, their workday typically extends beyond the school hours. They spend time before and after school preparing lesson plans, grading assignments, attending meetings, and communicating with parents. Additionally, they often participate in professional development workshops and extracurricular activities with students, which can take up evenings and weekends. Middle school teachers have a demanding and time-consuming job that requires dedication and hard work beyond the regular school hours.