In order to do well in a secondary education program, choose classes in high school that are challenging and in your subject of interest. They will prepare you for the level of thinking needed for college classes. If you are interested in majoring in english, take advanced placement classes or electives such as writing or journalism. If you want to major in math, take advanced placement math classes and electives to begin building strength in that subject area. Advanced placement classes are offered in most content areas. Strive to do well in these classes, for the grades will help you when applying to colleges.
Choose a college known for its teaching program and, because you want to make yourself marketable to future school districts, choose two majors, such as english and history. Many schools are cutting budgets, so they are looking for teachers who can teach two different subjects. Take a variety of electives in the content areas so you are more diverse. If you want to teach english, take classes in writing, literature, reading skills, grammar skills, and even theater. Many english teachers also coach drama. Grades are just as important in college as they will reflect your work ethic to future employers.
Become familiar with curriculum development and teaching strategies. With federal and state mandates, teachers are now becoming curriculum leaders as well as experts on teaching techniques. Substitute at a local high school to get a better understanding of schools and policies. Just sitting in the teachers' room and listening to discussions is a world of wealth for a teacher in training. Sit in on staff meetings to learn about the challenges facing teachers and school districts.
Work with adolescents. To better understand the world of the adolescent, become a coach or leader of a high school group. Part of teaching high school students is relating to their world and their challenges. Creating a rapport will help you when faced with your first high school class of teenagers, who would rather be socializing than sitting in a classroom.
Be willing to accept a job that is not your perfect job. It takes years to build the experience necessary to teach high school students. Learning the subject matter is only half of the struggle. Learning to relate takes experience. Be willing to take any job that will give you teaching experience. If you can't get a job as a teacher, become a teacher's aide. Eventually, you will have the background to become a teacher.
Understand teachers' salaries and time commitment. A teacher's starting salary is lower than most professions, around $25,000. Expect to work many hours into the night as well as weekends. Because of budget constraints, you will most likely do extra work for little or no compensation. You may have to take on a second job during the summer to pay off student loans or other major bills.