Elementary and middle school teachers tend to be generalists, teaching a variety of subjects. Secondary school teachers specialize in a specific subject, such as math, history, English, social studies, etc. In addition to classroom activities, teachers plan and evaluate lessons, prepare tests, grade papers, prepare report cards, oversee study halls and homerooms, supervise extracurricular activities, and meet with parents and school staff.
Teachers also participate in education conferences and workshops.
In recent years, teachers have become more involved in curriculum design, such as choosing textbooks and instructional software programs and evaluating teaching methods. Many individuals opt for the private school environment, which generally provides a smaller class size and less bureaucratic approach to education. In private boarding schools, some faculty will also hold the role of resident advisor with responsibility for living at the school. Private schools tend to operate on the traditional 10-month school year, with some offering their teachers the option of assisting with summer school programs. Public School Teaching Including school duties performed outside the classroom, many teachers work more than 40 hours a week.