2 answers
Emily
Student
Etoile, Texas
1
Question
Updated
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what why how can i be a good teacher?
I have wanted to be a teacher for my whole high school year, but even after telling my own school counselor that she opted to put me in a different career program the school offered instead of the Education one, will i struggle with it in college so much since i was not allowed to work on it in high school?
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2 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Emily !
I am sorry that you had that experience, but did the guidance counselor explain why you couldn't be placed in the Education Program ? You need to return to the guidance office and ask for an explanation. It could be that all the spots for students were filled or that you may have needed to enter the program in 9th grade for a four year duration of the program. I am sorry about this because not many high schools have the teacher prep programs and there is a lot of benefit to them.
You will, however, not be affected by this. While you are in high school you can still learn needed skills that will benefit you as a teacher in the future. You will be fine in college as an Education Major and that is where you will get your professional education for the career. Most high schools do not have education programs so most college students enter college Education Majors without having that in high school. You'll be perfectly fine.
In high school, it may be helpful for you to pay special attention to English class and public speaking/giving speeches. You can take a psychology class also which will help you in college. Doing some volunteer work in the community will help you with communication skills and interacting with people. You can even consider tutoring in an elementary school. Look for leadership extracurriculars, too. Although not in your town of Etoile, find out more about leadership programs, specifically Texas Leadership Scholars Program or the Community Leadership Program by All In Together. Maybe there is a group near where you live.
Just remember, you will be learning how to become an educator once you enter college and major in Education. You don't have anything to worry about and you'll do just fine.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
I am sorry that you had that experience, but did the guidance counselor explain why you couldn't be placed in the Education Program ? You need to return to the guidance office and ask for an explanation. It could be that all the spots for students were filled or that you may have needed to enter the program in 9th grade for a four year duration of the program. I am sorry about this because not many high schools have the teacher prep programs and there is a lot of benefit to them.
You will, however, not be affected by this. While you are in high school you can still learn needed skills that will benefit you as a teacher in the future. You will be fine in college as an Education Major and that is where you will get your professional education for the career. Most high schools do not have education programs so most college students enter college Education Majors without having that in high school. You'll be perfectly fine.
In high school, it may be helpful for you to pay special attention to English class and public speaking/giving speeches. You can take a psychology class also which will help you in college. Doing some volunteer work in the community will help you with communication skills and interacting with people. You can even consider tutoring in an elementary school. Look for leadership extracurriculars, too. Although not in your town of Etoile, find out more about leadership programs, specifically Texas Leadership Scholars Program or the Community Leadership Program by All In Together. Maybe there is a group near where you live.
Just remember, you will be learning how to become an educator once you enter college and major in Education. You don't have anything to worry about and you'll do just fine.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Charissa Gonzalez
Executive Assistant
13
Answers
Chandler, Arizona
Updated
Charissa’s Answer
You’re *not behind* at all. Many amazing teachers never took an education‑focused class in high school. What matters most is your passion, commitment, and the steps you take now. You already care enough to ask this question, which shows you’re on the right path.
1. WHAT makes a good teacher?
Great teachers tend to have:
* Patience — being able to explain things more than once without frustration.
* Communication skills — making ideas clear and easy to understand.
* Empathy— understanding what students are feeling and what they need.
* Creativity — finding fun and engaging ways to teach.
* Consistency — being someone students know they can rely on.
And most importantly:
A real desire to help others learn.
You already have that.
2. WHY you can still succeed without the high‑school program
A high‑school education track can be helpful — but it’s *not required* to become a teacher.
Here’s why this won’t hold you back:
Colleges start everyone from “Level 1”
Education majors begin with "introductory courses" that teach everything from:
* How to lesson-plan
* How to manage a classroom
* How students learn at different ages
* How to communicate effectively
You are not expected to come in with prior training.
Many future teachers didn’t get teaching experience in high school
Some people decide in college, or even after college. You’re already ahead because you know your goal early.
Passion matters more than early experience
Being a teacher is about heart, dedication, and the willingness to grow — not what program you were placed into at age 15 or 16.
3. HOW you can prepare now and stand out**
Even without a school program, you can build great experience on your own:
1. Volunteer with younger students
Tutoring, helping in after‑school programs, coaching, or reading with younger kids all count.
2. Look for community programs
Libraries, YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, faith‑based programs — many need youth volunteers.
3. Practice explaining things
Help classmates with homework, explain concepts to siblings, or tutor a friend. Every bit helps.
4. Read about child development or education online
You don’t need a formal class to start learning how kids grow and think.
5. Ask to shadow a teacher
Even one day observing a classroom can teach you a lot.
4. A message you can share to reassure the student:
You absolutely can still become a great teacher, even if your high school didn’t put you in the education program. Colleges will teach you everything from the beginning, and many future teachers enter college with zero formal experience. What matters most is your passion for teaching — and you already have that. Start by getting small experiences like tutoring or volunteering, and you’ll be in great shape for an education major.
I hope this helps and best to you in your future endeavors.
1. WHAT makes a good teacher?
Great teachers tend to have:
* Patience — being able to explain things more than once without frustration.
* Communication skills — making ideas clear and easy to understand.
* Empathy— understanding what students are feeling and what they need.
* Creativity — finding fun and engaging ways to teach.
* Consistency — being someone students know they can rely on.
And most importantly:
A real desire to help others learn.
You already have that.
2. WHY you can still succeed without the high‑school program
A high‑school education track can be helpful — but it’s *not required* to become a teacher.
Here’s why this won’t hold you back:
Colleges start everyone from “Level 1”
Education majors begin with "introductory courses" that teach everything from:
* How to lesson-plan
* How to manage a classroom
* How students learn at different ages
* How to communicate effectively
You are not expected to come in with prior training.
Many future teachers didn’t get teaching experience in high school
Some people decide in college, or even after college. You’re already ahead because you know your goal early.
Passion matters more than early experience
Being a teacher is about heart, dedication, and the willingness to grow — not what program you were placed into at age 15 or 16.
3. HOW you can prepare now and stand out**
Even without a school program, you can build great experience on your own:
1. Volunteer with younger students
Tutoring, helping in after‑school programs, coaching, or reading with younger kids all count.
2. Look for community programs
Libraries, YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, faith‑based programs — many need youth volunteers.
3. Practice explaining things
Help classmates with homework, explain concepts to siblings, or tutor a friend. Every bit helps.
4. Read about child development or education online
You don’t need a formal class to start learning how kids grow and think.
5. Ask to shadow a teacher
Even one day observing a classroom can teach you a lot.
4. A message you can share to reassure the student:
You absolutely can still become a great teacher, even if your high school didn’t put you in the education program. Colleges will teach you everything from the beginning, and many future teachers enter college with zero formal experience. What matters most is your passion for teaching — and you already have that. Start by getting small experiences like tutoring or volunteering, and you’ll be in great shape for an education major.
I hope this helps and best to you in your future endeavors.