How to Be a Latin Teacher
In the 21st century, Latin is anything but a dead language. Latin helps students improve their vocabulary and linguistics skills in English and Romance languages, perform better on standardized tests and read great works of history, poetry, philosophy and drama in their original language. An increasing demand for Latin classes in secondary schools and colleges should encourage anyone interested in classical studies to be a Latin teacher.
Instructions
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Plan your course of study. At a minimum, a B.A. in Latin and a state teaching certificate are required to be a Latin teacher. The Latin major includes courses in Latin language and literature, Greco-Roman history, mythology and classical art and architecture. Teaching certification requires credits in educational psychology, teaching methodologies, classroom management, lesson planning and student teaching or "practicum."
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Minor in at least one subject that interests you. Also consider a double major or double minor. Many Latin teachers teach additional subjects, such as modern foreign languages, geography, history or English.
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Obtain state teaching certification in Latin and any other major or minor subjects you want to teach. See your state's Department of Education guidelines.
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Write your resume or curriculum vitae and cover letter. State your objective of finding a teaching position and list your credentials and experience. Include all teaching, tutoring and coaching positions, professional memberships, publications, presentations, special recognition or awards and teaching certificate status. Also list extracurricular activities that may interest your prospective employers.
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Look for teaching positions. Use the "American Classical League" job board, your college job placement office, newspaper advertisements, career web sites and other resources. Professors and academic advisers can provide additional guidance and networking opportunities and professional development.
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Apply for teaching positions. Send cover letters and resumes or curriculum vitae. Complete any other requirements such as on line or paper applications. After you apply, make telephone calls to follow up.
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Interview for positions. Some prospective employers will ask you to teach a class when you interview. Set expectations and get details ahead of time. Rehearse any presentations well in advance. After the interview, follow up with a thank you letter or phone call.
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Review the school's requirements once you are hired and then design your curriculum. There are many resources available for Latin teachers, including books, journals, software, web sites and professional organizations.
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Stay creative. As you know, learning Latin is hard work and students appreciate seeing how Latin relates to the modern world. Tap the plethora of Latin teaching resources to come up with innovative lesson plans such as translating song lyrics from English to Latin, direct a play in Latin, have students complete group research projects or cook an authentic ancient Roman meal.
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Promote Latin studies. Encourage students to expand their Latin education beyond the textbook pages. Serve as Latin Club adviser, encourage students to participate in Junior Classical League and consider organizing a school trip to Italy.
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Maintain your professional memberships. Join the American Classical League and state or regional classical associations. These organizations provide a wealth of professional resources and invaluable contacts.
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Subscribe to classical studies publications and attend conferences to follow Latin educational news and trends that you may want to tap for your own classroom. Continue learning; consider pursuing an advanced degree in Latin.
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Tips & Warnings
Participate in National Latin Teacher Recruitment Week. During the first week of March, the National Committee for Latin and Greek actively recruits teachers for open positions in secondary schools.
