Teaching at a Private High School

Teaching at a private high school can be a different experience than teaching at a public school. The education degrees offered by Grand Canyon University enable you to pursue a career in either public or private education. Wherever you choose to teach, you’ll have the opportunity to inspire and encourage the next generation of innovators and leaders. You’re also likely to find that you’ll learn from your students even as they learn from you. Every school and class has its own unique culture, but you can generally expect the following from private high schools.

Curricula With Flexibility

At any school you work in, you’ll be expected to address certain topics and academic standards. But in general, private school curricula may be more flexible as long as they fulfill national and state requirements and prepare students to succeed in college or careers. Additionally, high schools that do not accept taxpayer dollars are not required to adhere to the Constitutional mandate of church/state separation. Because of this, you may choose to teach in a private or a faith based high school.

Small Classes With Engaged Students

Private high schools may be typically characterized by small class sizes of 12 to 15 students. They may have gone through a rigorous admissions process to enroll in the school. This may provide teachers the opportunity to be creative and design authentic and project based learning experiences for their students. Of course, there are always exceptions. Some schools, such as private Montessori schools, embrace large class sizes because of the belief that many children of varying ages can learn how to work together in a setting that more closely mimics a real world community.

Resources for Classrooms

As a private high school teacher, you won’t be subjected to tax-related budget cuts. There are exceptions, but most private schools tend to be well-funded. In those cases, teachers may find fully supplied classrooms, recently published textbooks and modern technology.

Opportunities for Professional Development

As an aspiring teacher, you already appreciate the importance of lifelong learning. No matter how well your undergraduate degree has prepared you for your career, you can always strive for personal and professional growth. The average private high school is heavily invested in giving teachers opportunities for professional development because this is a major selling point for the parents who are paying tuition.

Are you ready to earn a degree that can allow you to pursue your dream job? Click on the Request Information button on this page. Grand Canyon University’s College of Education offers numerous education degree programs, including degrees for aspiring high school teachers.