High School

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a math teacher, prepare yourself by taking classes in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus in high school. If available, take advanced math classes in statistics, probability, and logic. Classes in speech and English composition courses are also helpful to develop your communication skills. You should also explore extracurricular activities that will further challenge your math skills, such as joining a math club. The more involved you are now, the better you'll look to future employers.

Postsecondary Training

There are hundreds of accredited teacher education programs in the United States. Most of these programs are designed to meet the certification requirements for the state in which they're located. Some states may require that you pass a test before being admitted to an education program. You may choose to major in mathematics while taking required education courses, or you may major in secondary education with a concentration in math. You'll probably have advisers in both math and education to help you select courses.

Practice teaching, also called student teaching, with a local school is usually required as part of the education program. To fulfill this requirement, you will be assigned to work with a full-time teacher for a period of time. During student teaching, you will observe the ways in which lessons are presented and the classroom is managed, learn how to keep records of such details as attendance and grades, and get actual experience in handling the class, both under supervision and alone.

Prospective middle school and high school teachers usually need 24 to 36 credit hours of college work in the subject they wish to teach. Some states require a master's degree; teachers with master's degrees can earn higher salaries. Private schools generally do not require an education degree.

Other Education or Training

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics offers continuing education opportunities both online (through interactive institutes and e-seminars) and via in-person workshops and seminars at association events. Past sessions included "Algebra Readiness for Every Student," "Engaging Students in Learning: Mathematical Practices and Process Standards," and "Using Jokes and Humor Effectively in the Mathematics Classroom." Continuing education opportunities are also provided by the American Mathematical Society, Association for Women in Mathematics, and the Mathematical Association of America. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

As a public school teacher, you must be licensed under regulations established by the department of education of the state in which you are teaching. Although requirements vary by state, most require a bachelor's degree and the completion of a state-approved education program. Certain courses and education credits must be fulfilled as part of these training programs, and some states may also require you to maintain a minimum grade point average or even obtain a master's degree in education before teaching. Technology training is also a part of many states' licensing requirements. Not all states require licensure for teachers in private or parochial schools.

When you have received your teaching degree, you may request that a transcript of your college record be sent to the licensure section of the state department of education. If you have met licensure requirements, you will receive a certificate and thus be eligible to teach in the public schools of the state. In some states, you may have to take a competency exam to prove your basic skills before teaching. If you move to another state, you will have to resubmit college transcripts as well as comply with any other regulations in the new state to be able to teach there.

Because of a current teacher shortage, many states offer alternative licensing programs for individuals with bachelor's degrees in a subject (such as math) who have not taken the required number of education courses. Individuals may begin teaching immediately under the supervision of a licensed teacher while taking education courses part time. After working for one or two years and taking the required courses, they can earn a license.

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers voluntary board certification for mathematics educators who teach students who are between the ages of 11 and 18. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree, have three years of experience as a teacher, and possess a valid state teaching license. All states recognize national certification and may grant higher salaries and promotions to those who obtain it.

One of the best ways to gain experience in the field is to work as a student teacher, which is often a requirement of your education degree program.

To succeed as a math teacher, not only will you need to meet all the educational and licensure requirements, but you should also have the right personality for the job. You will need respect for young people and a genuine interest in their success in life. In teaching, patience is most certainly a virtue; adolescence can be a troubling time for children, and these troubles often affect behavior and classroom performance. You may find yourself frustrated and discouraged by students' reactions or lack of response to you as their teacher. During these times, it is important to keep a level head and be patient as you try to connect with and educate them.

You will be working with students who are at very impressionable ages; you should serve as a good role model. You should also be well organized, as you'll have to keep track of the work and progress of a number of different students.