A compelling high school teacher resume highlights your subject-matter expertise, student achievement data, and ability to prepare students for college and careers. Use this guide and example to build a resume that passes district screening and impresses department chairs.
High school teaching positions require deep subject-matter expertise combined with the ability to engage adolescent learners, differentiate instruction for diverse ability levels, and prepare students for standardized exams, college admissions, and career readiness. With districts using applicant tracking systems to filter candidates, your resume must include the right keywords, certifications, and quantified outcomes to advance past the initial screen. This guide shows you how to create a high school teacher resume that earns interviews.
List your state teaching license with specific subject endorsements (e.g., 'Secondary Mathematics 6-12, Physics 6-12') and include your Praxis Subject Assessment scores if above the state cutoff
Quantify AP and honors outcomes: '78% of AP U.S. History students scored 3 or higher on the AP exam, compared to the national average of 48%' is powerful evidence of instructional quality
Highlight extracurricular leadership — department chair experience, club sponsorships, coaching roles, and committee work show investment beyond the classroom
Include professional development and specialized training: curriculum writing, Harkness method, project-based learning, or Google Certified Educator credentials
Tailor your resume to the specific subject area and school type — a STEM magnet school values different language than a traditional comprehensive high school
List every subject endorsement on your teaching license, as each one expands your employability. Include the endorsement name, grade range (e.g., '6-12' or '9-12'), and the issuing state. If you passed Praxis Subject Assessments, list the specific test name and your score if it exceeds the passing threshold. Common high-demand endorsements include Mathematics, Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Special Education, ESL/ELL, and Computer Science. If you hold endorsements in multiple subjects, you are significantly more competitive.
Create a dedicated line or subsection for AP/IB instruction. Include the specific course name, number of students taught, and exam results. Write 'Taught AP Calculus AB to 62 students; 74% scored 3 or higher (national average: 58%)' rather than simply listing 'AP Calculus.' If you completed College Board AP training or IB workshops, list these in your professional development section. AP/IB teaching experience signals advanced content knowledge and rigorous instructional capability.
Yes, especially for high school positions. Principals value teachers who contribute to the school community beyond their classroom. List coaching roles, club sponsorships, and extracurricular advising with the same rigor as teaching experience: include team/club name, your role, years of involvement, and measurable outcomes (tournament results, membership growth, fundraising totals). Many high school hiring decisions factor in extracurricular willingness.
A master's degree is not always required for initial hiring, but it strengthens your candidacy and often qualifies you for higher salary placement on the district pay scale. If you have a master's degree, list it prominently. If you are currently enrolled, note your expected completion date. Some states require a master's degree within the first 5 years of teaching for license renewal. A master's in your content area or in Curriculum & Instruction is most valued for high school positions.
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