Some states require certification by a nationally recognized authority, such as the Child Development Associate (CDA) designation from the Council for Professional Recognition, as a requirement to teach in a preschool.

Effective preschool or prekindergarten teachers must have a thorough understanding of child development.

Most elementary teachers teach in self-contained classrooms.

High School classrooms are typically active and visually stimulating. Teacher use a variety of teaching methods to engage students learning.

At the elementary level, most teachers specialize in teaching one or two areas, such as social studies or science or math.

Brain development in children at the middle schools/junior high level encourages thinking at a higher level. Students think faster and more creatively.

High school brings new subject area and greater opportunities for in-depth study and learning.

In high school, students take primary responsibility for their learning. It is not unusual to have homework in every subject every night, as well as long-term projects. If they do not understand concepts, teachers expect students to ask for help.

High school teachers have flexibility in what and how they teach. However, they usually have other responsibilities in addition to teaching.

Students who complete a two-year degree program at a community college receive a bachelor's degree.