English as a Second Language (ESL) Teachers

Many ESL teachers work in primary and secondary classrooms. While the job is not physically strenuous, it can be tiring and trying. Some school environments can be tense if drugs, gangs, and other problems are present. Although there has been increased media coverage of school violence, the number of students who report having been threatened or injured with a weapon on school property has actually decreased over the years.

Traditional classroom teachers work a typical school day, but most put in extra hours preparing for classes and meeting other teaching duty requirements. If other duties require sponsorship of clubs or coaching, teachers may have to work some nights or weekends. They may also be required to be at the school extra hours to accommodate parent and student meetings.

Teachers who teach adult education classes or other community-based classes may be required to hold classes at night to accommodate students' work and family schedules. Some ESL teachers may hold classes in corporate classrooms, libraries, or meeting rooms as well as local colleges or schools. The physical teaching conditions and locations can vary.

Just as there is a large demand for ESL instructors in the United States, there is also a need for ESL educators overseas. Opportunities to teach abroad exist in traditional classrooms or on military bases overseas. Teachers may be required to work in less than desirable settings depending on the culture and the economics of the area.