While some states have strict qualifications that you must fulfill in order to achieve the status of a “master teacher,” other states just have general guidelines that vary on a case by case basis. For example, in most states you must have a Masters degree in order to apply for a “master teacher” position, though a doctorate is preferred. Regardless of the educational facility and the subject, certain responsibilities and duties prevail for most master teachers.

Development of Curriculum

The administration of most schools and universities expect a master teacher to not only weigh in heavily with their opinion about the current curriculum but to suggest and develop new classes and courses for students. The master teacher should be able to pinpoint any weaknesses in the curriculum and have ideas to fix them immediately, as well as oversee the implementation of new courses.

Mentor

While the master teacher should not just be a mentor to students, but to other teachers as well, she is expected to guide newly assigned teachers or certain designated teachers with instructional support. A master teacher is expected to share new and advanced instructional techniques and may be in charge of coordinating or leading staff development workshops.

Establish Accountability

A master teacher must implement or follow some method which tracks student grades and progress and that of the respective teacher working with the student. In this manner the master teacher can evaluate the effectiveness of the curriculum, to what extent students are comprehending it, how hard teachers are working and how effective certain teaching practices are.

Set an Example

A master teacher must always set an example by constantly seeking to better himself by taking professional development workshops. He is expected to follow equal employment and nondiscrimination policies; follow federal laws, state laws, school boards policies and the professional standards.

By: Danalyn G. Arabis | Teacher III | Limay National High School | Limay, Bataan