38. Finding Your First Teaching Job
Abstract: The nation is in great need of qualified physics teachers. In fact, as of 2012, over 58% of current physics teachers are teaching physics outside of their primary area of study, and have been pressed into teaching physics because of such high demand. This means that many current physics teachers are underprepared for their current teaching assignment in physics. As the baby boomer generation begins to retire, this need for physics teachers will continue to grow. Furthermore, with the current national push for students to improve achievement in the areas of areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and the high importance being placed on standardized college-readiness tests such as the ACT, the number of high school students taking physics will continue to grow significantly. During student teaching, teacher candidates need to begin preparing their professional resumes and portfolios in preparation for job interviews. Teachers should also use the time before their formal employment to reflect upon and revise their personal teaching philosophy in preparation for the new school year.