Teaching Adolescents to Young Adults Program Overview
Learn How to Teach
Do you see yourself teaching English, history, math or science in a 7th to 12th grade classroom? If the answer is “Yes,” then you should consider pursuing this degree and an Adolescent to Young Adult license.
The AYA/Secondary Program at Ashland University will give you an extensive education in your chosen content area. You'll learn how to plan lessons, manage a class and work as a highly trained professional in the classroom.
Do What You Love
Based on your area of passion, choose from the following areas of specialization in the AYA program:
| Licensure Disclosure: This program is for students who intend to seek employment in Ohio and only prepares students for licensure in the state of Ohio. |
Can You Give Me a Glimpse of My Future?
As a high school teacher, you'll have the opportunity to inspire and empower students during a crucial stage of their academic and personal development. Your future in high school education will involve fostering critical thinking skills, nurturing a love for learning and preparing students for success in their academic pursuits and beyond.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for high school teachers is $65,220.
Despite a slight decline in employment, about 64,000 openings for high school teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
High school teachers play a vital role in educating and guiding students through their academic journey. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Planning and delivering lessons: High school teachers prepare and deliver instructional materials, lectures and activities to facilitate student learning in various subjects.
- Assessing student progress: They evaluate student performance through assignments, exams and projects, providing feedback to support academic growth and achievement.
- Creating a positive learning environment: High school teachers cultivate a supportive and inclusive classroom atmosphere that encourages student engagement, participation and respect for diversity.
- Providing academic support: They offer additional assistance to students who may need help understanding concepts, completing assignments or preparing for exams.
- Collaborating with colleagues and parents: High school teachers work closely with other educators, administrators and parents to address student needs, develop curriculum and promote student success.
- Participating in professional development: They engage in ongoing professional growth and learning opportunities to stay updated on educational trends, teaching strategies and subject-area knowledge.
- CCP Courses: In Ohio, high school teachers with a master’s degree and 18 graduate credits in a content-area may also be responsible for teaching College Credit Plus courses at the high school.
Overall, high school teachers play a crucial role in shaping students' academic, social and emotional development, preparing them for future success in college, careers and beyond.
Graduates with a teaching license may be hired by school districts, charter schools or private schools. Additionally, opportunities may exist in other non-profit organizations, curriculum development companies and educational technology companies.