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High School Student Planning a Teaching Career

If you are thinking about a future teaching career, there are many things you can and should do while you are in high school. A well-researched plan now can save you time and money later.
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Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior  
Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Gain experience and learn what teaching is like by volunteering in classrooms for different grades, tutoring, or mentoring students. Check out service learning activities. Volunteer with local education foundations.
Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Speak with a counselor to make sure you take the courses that will help you attend the college of your choice. Make your education plan.
Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Decide what type of teaching interests you so you can find the right teacher preparation program.
    Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Take Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the exams to test out of certain college courses.
      Unchecked check box Take community college courses while still in high school. Look for local dual enrollment programs between your high school and community college. Use your time wisely and save money.
    Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT).
    Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Take the ACT, SAT, and college placement tests.
    Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Research California Community College teacher preparation programs, other colleges, scholarships, and teacher preparation programs, including blended or integrated programs that allow you to complete your baccalaureate degree as part of teacher preparation.
    Unchecked check box Unchecked check box Make a list of colleges you might like to attend and see if they have financial aid or support programs that can help you become a teacher.
      Unchecked check box Get and complete applications from the colleges you are interested in attending. Be sure to meet the deadlines, which are often prior to the end of November for the next Fall semester.
      Unchecked check box Apply for financial aid for college between January and March for the next Fall semester.

Choosing a career can be complicated. The Young Person Web page provides resources and information that can help.
Learn more about the teacher shortage areas that may improve your employability.

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