* Location: Teachers in high-cost-of-living areas generally earn more. A high school teacher in New York City will likely earn significantly more than one in a rural area of another state.
* Experience: Teachers with more years of experience typically earn higher salaries.
* Education level: Teachers with advanced degrees (Masters, Doctorate) usually earn more than those with only a Bachelor's degree.
* Subject taught: Some specialized subjects, particularly those in high demand (STEM fields, for example), may command higher salaries.
* School type: Private schools, especially elite private schools, often pay more than public schools. Charter schools can vary widely.
* Role: Administrators (principals, superintendents) earn significantly more than classroom teachers.
While pinpointing a single "highest-paid" teacher type is impossible, generally speaking, highly experienced administrators in high-demand areas with advanced degrees will command the highest salaries. Within the classroom teacher realm, those with specialized skills in high-demand subjects (like STEM) and advanced degrees in high-cost areas are likely to earn the most.