How to Get a Job as a Drama Teacher
Drama teachers instruct students on a variety of subjects, including stage production, lighting, costumes and acting. Many drama teachers are retired theater professionals. If you want to be a drama teacher, you have to obtain the appropriate education and training.
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Things You'll Need
- 8X10 head shot
- cool resume
- video clips/web site
- writing samples
- curriculum maps
- production experience
Instructions
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Obtain a bachelor's degree in drama, theater or a related field in the arts. Take a diverse course load to gain knowledge in different aspects of theater and stage production. For instance, take courses in acting, voice, history of theater, theory of drama and technical production.
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Obtain a valid teaching certificate in the state where you desire to teach. Alternatively, obtain certification in the state where you currently reside if you are unwilling to relocate. Most state boards of education offer reciprocity to teachers holding certificates in other states. To obtain a teaching certificate, you will be required to student-teach for a semester at a local school.
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Volunteer at a local school, community center, YMCA or other nonprofit to gain additional experience teaching drama while you wait for a job opportunity. Network with teachers and with local professionals in theater and the arts to build contacts. Ask these people to keep an eye out for teaching job openings.
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Search for job openings in the newspaper and on school district websites. Submit your resume and a cover letter listing professional references to potential employers. Target high schools, as these institutions have more need for drama teachers than do middle or elementary schools.
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Tips & Warnings
Get a new head shot every two years and every time you do something drastic to your hair.
There are agencies to help teachers find jobs. "The Educators' Group" works to place teachers in private schools nationally.
Don't sign a long term contract on a job that you are certain to hate. Check it out carefully before you make that commitment.
Drama teaching is for workaholics. Beware long hours after school when working on back-to-back productions. Remember to take time out for yourself and your family. Your cast and crew depend on you, so stay healthy and rested! Take summer vacation if you can, it is a needed refresher and gives you time to read and see some new plays.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
