11.1 Types of Teaching Jobs & Subjects

Teaching is a diverse profession, with opportunities across different educational levels, subjects, and specialties. Understanding these different roles can help aspiring educators identify the path that best suits their skills and interests.  

Elementary School Teachers

Elementary teachers usually teach multiple subjects to the same group of students throughout the day, focusing on core areas such as math, reading, science, and social studies. These educators are responsible for helping students build foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social development. They often teach students from kindergarten through fifth grade.  

Middle and High School Teachers

Unlike elementary school teachers, middle and high school teachers typically specialize in one subject and teach several classes of different students throughout the day. Common subjects include English, mathematics, science, history, and foreign languages. Middle school teachers generally teach students from sixth to eighth grade, while high school teachers work with students in ninth through twelfth grade, often preparing them for college or vocational careers.  

Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers work with students who have physical, emotional, or learning disabilities. They develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to meet each student’s unique needs. These teachers may work in inclusive classrooms, where students with disabilities learn alongside their peers, or in specialized settings.  

English as a Second Language (ESL) Teachers

ESL teachers help students who are learning English as an additional language. Their goal is to improve students’ reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. ESL teachers often work with students of all ages, from young children to adults, and they may work in traditional schools or specialized language programs.  

Vocational and Technical Education Teachers

Vocational teachers provide instruction in technical and trade fields such as automotive repair, healthcare, culinary arts, or information technology. These educators often work in high schools or community colleges and help students gain practical skills needed for specific careers.  

Art, Music, and Physical Education Teachers

These teachers focus on specific disciplines that develop students’ creativity and physical well-being. Art and music teachers introduce students to creative expression, while physical education teachers help students improve their physical fitness and teamwork skills. These subjects are typically taught in both elementary and secondary schools.

Substitute Teachers

Substitute teachers temporarily take over a classroom when the regular teacher is absent. They may work in any grade level or subject depending on the needs of the school, offering flexible teaching experience that can serve as a steppingstone to full-time positions.

By understanding the wide range of teaching roles, from elementary education to special education, aspiring teachers can choose a path that aligns with their skills and interests.