Careers

Teaching mathematics is about far more than sharing your love of mathematics with students. High school teaching is both a challenging and rewarding profession. Every day provides opportunities to make a difference in the lives of young people by serving as a role model and trusted adult, by contributing to strong communities, and by providing support and encouragement to adolescents at a critical stage in their development. Mathematics teachers play a profound role in helping students become the critical thinkers and productive citizens needed for a functioning democracy by providing opportunities for school students to develop quantitative literacy and enhance their logical reasoning abilities.

Although not as lucrative as some other fields, such as business or engineering, teachers play an important role in cultivating the diverse talent needed in STEM fields. Mathematics teaching positions are typically available in every region and offer stable pay and benefits. Teaching credentials earned in Illinois, are typically easily transferred to other areas of the country. Teaching opportunities also exist around the world, especially through the system of American Schools abroad.