Middle school teachers educate students, typically in sixth through eighth grades. Middle school teachers help students build on the fundamentals they learned in elementary school and prepare them for the more difficult curriculum they will face in high school.

Middle school teachers work in public and private schools. They generally work school hours when students are present, and use nights and weekends to prepare lessons and grade papers. Most do not work during the summer.

Middle school teachers must have at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.

The median annual wage for middle school teachers was $55,860 in May 2015.

Employment of middle school teachers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Growth is projected because of expected increases in enrollment. However, employment growth will vary by region.

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