How to Become a High School Drama Teacher
- 1). Major in theater, acting, drama, or English. Theater majors study all aspects of the production of plays. Acting majors study how to perform in front of an audience. English majors study works of literature and the principles of English composition.
- 2). Participate in summer theatricals. Summer stock productions are an easy way for prospective drama teachers to follow the production of a play for beginning to end. Even if you aren't necessarily interested in acting in plays, you can get hired as stage hand or costume supervisor. This hands-on experience can help enhance your ability to teach students. It can also make your resume more attractive to principals.
- 3). Major or minor in education. An education minor will provide you with the essentials on how to teach. Many states require potential teachers to complete a certain number of education classes before they can teach in classrooms. Education classes typically require prospective teachers to study subjects such as adolescent psychology.
- 4). Complete student teacher training. Potential drama teachers may be asked to supervise students as they study ancient Greek tragedies or paint backdrops for contemporary drama productions. Many states require prospective teachers to complete at least six months of student teaching before receiving a teaching license. After the completion of this period, you may apply for a teaching license. Completion of a teaching license generally requires the applicant to pass tests that demonstrate knowledge of his subject of choice and pedagogical knowledge.
- 5). Apply for a job as a drama teacher with high schools in your area of choice. Send out a resume highlighting your qualifications to schools and school districts. Not all high schools have specific classes devoted to drama. However, even if the school does not, you may be able to approach school administrators and offer to start one as a means of learning enrichment. Applying for another field of teaching while offering to start a drama club may also be a way to get your foot in the door and showcase a need for theater in the school system.
- 6). Consider using a job finding source, such as Kelly Educational Staffing, if your traditional job search and resume submission does not go as you would like. In the field of your choice, you will often find a job from such agencies, even though it may require relocation.