OPT History Teacher Jobs
History Teacher jobs on OPT are available at K-12 schools, community colleges, and tutoring organizations. Most roles require a state teaching license, which can take time to obtain, so starting that process early matters. Your OPT employment must be directly related to your degree in history, education, or a related field.
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INTRODUCTION
History Social Science Regular Teacher - 9th - 12th Grade
Job Number: 260002O5
Posting Date: Nov 5, 2026, 12:21:53 PM
Primary Location: North/Northwest Side - 2957 N Hoyne Ave (Alcott College Prep HS)
Salary Range: $64,469.94 to $82,839.39
JOB DESCRIPTION
CLASS TITLE: Teacher
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under the supervision of the school principal, responsible for the instruction, progress, and discipline of all pupils in assigned classes, and performs related duties as required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Responsible for instructional planning, including, but not limited to, providing written lesson plans and preparation in accordance with the objectives of the instructional program, establishing positive learning expectation standards for all pupils, and evaluating pupils' progress and maintaining current and accurate records of pupils' achievements.
- Implements instructional methods, including, but not limited to, applying contemporary principles of learning theory and teaching methodology, drawing from the range of instructional materials available in the school, participating in the development and implementation of new teaching techniques, and providing bulletin board and interest areas reflective of pupils' current work.
- Exhibits and applies knowledge of the curriculum content related to subject areas and instructional level.
- Participates in programs to improve student attendance; promotes anti-vandalism programs in the schools.
- Establishes and maintains reasonable rules of conduct within the classroom and on school grounds, including, but not limited to, playgrounds, corridors, and lunchrooms, consistent with the provisions of the Chicago Public Schools' Uniform Discipline Code.
- Maintains accurate attendance records and seating charts.
- Encourages student growth in self-discipline and positive self-concept.
- Ensures fairness in teacher-pupil relationships and exhibits an understanding and respect for students.
- Initiates appropriate conferences with parents, guardians, administrators, and/or ancillary personnel, in accordance with school procedures.
- Communicates with parents or guardians and counsels pupils on the pupil's academic progress, attendance, and conduct.
- Participates in in-service meetings and professional staff meetings and uses pertinent information and materials provided.
- May coordinate and attend class field trips; may work in extra-curricular and after-school activities.
- Utilizes appropriate resources available in the community.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience: Successful completion of all student teaching requirements as well as all course work required to obtain the appropriate teaching certificate(s) issued by the Illinois State Board of Education.
License Requirements: Teachers must possess at least one of the following valid teaching licenses issued by the Illinois State Board of Education: Professional Educator License (PEL) or Educator License with Stipulations (ELS), properly endorsed for this position.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skill:
- Knowledge of subject matter consistent with state certification requirements.
- Knowledge of contemporary principles and practices of teaching.
- Knowledge of classroom and behavior management techniques.
- Ability to modify instruction to meet student needs.
- Ability to cooperate with the school faculty and administration in the development and implementation of an articulated program of instruction.
- Ability to work effectively with pupils, parents and guardians, staff members, and community representatives in providing an appropriate educational program.
- Ability to understand the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional patterns of pupils.
- Skill in the application of contemporary principles and practices of teaching.
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Skill in exercising sound and professional judgment.
Physical Requirements: Light Work: Exerting up to twenty (20) pounds of force occasionally, or up to ten (10) pounds of force frequently, or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demands include the ability to stoop occasionally, reach frequently, handle and finger objects occasionally, talk and hear constantly, frequent use of near visual acuity, and occasional use of far visual acuity.
Benefits:
Health & Wellness: Your Care, Your Choice
CPS is committed to providing comprehensive health coverage to our employees and their eligible dependents. You'll have access to a variety of choices to best fit your needs:
- Medical Plan Options
- Pharmacy
- Dental
- Vision
- Behavioral Health & EAP
- Employee Wellness Program
Financial Security: Planning for Today and Tomorrow
We understand the importance of financial stability, which is why CPS offers strong retirement and savings options:
- Basic Life Insurance
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Pension Plans
- Supplemental Retirement Plans (403(b) and 457(b))
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Spot Pet Insurance
Work-Life Balance: Supporting Your Personal and Professional Life
CPS values the well-being of its employees and offers competitive paid time off policies:
- Paid Leave
- Sick Leave
- Vacation Days
- Parental Leaves
- Short-Term Disability
- Religious Holidays
- Leaves
Reference the Chicago Public Schools: A Comprehensive Benefits Overview or the benefits handbook for comprehensive details.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a History Teacher
Verify your degree qualifies
OPT work must be directly related to your degree. A history, education, or social studies degree clearly supports a History Teacher role. If your major was adjacent, document the connection explicitly when communicating with employers and DSOs.
Address state licensure early
Most K-12 History Teacher positions require a state teaching license. Licensing timelines vary by state, often running three to six months. Apply for licensure before your OPT start date so you can begin working without delays or gaps in employment.
Target private and independent schools
Private and independent schools often have more flexibility around licensure requirements than public schools. Many hire OPT students without a full state license. These schools are worth prioritizing early in your search, especially when licensure is still pending.
Track your OPT end date carefully
History Teacher hiring cycles align with the academic calendar, typically peaking in spring for fall positions. Plan backward from your OPT end date to ensure you can complete hiring, onboarding, and any licensure steps before authorization expires.
Communicate sponsorship needs clearly
Many school HR departments are unfamiliar with OPT and H-1B visa sponsorship. Come prepared with a brief, clear explanation of your current authorization and future visa needs. Framing it simply reduces hesitation and positions you as a prepared, professional candidate.
Use STEM OPT if your degree qualifies
Education technology, data-focused curriculum roles, or instructional design positions sometimes qualify under STEM OPT if your degree is STEM-designated. Confirm with your DSO whether your program qualifies, as this extends work authorization by 24 months.
History Teacher OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a History Teacher on OPT?
Yes, as long as the role is directly related to your degree. A history, education, or social studies degree supports most History Teacher positions. Your OPT employment authorization must align with your field of study, and your DSO will verify that connection before endorsing the job on your SEVIS record.
Do History Teacher jobs on OPT require a state teaching license?
Public K-12 schools generally require a state teaching license, and requirements vary significantly by state. Private schools often have more flexibility and may hire candidates who are license-eligible but not yet fully certified. If you're on OPT and still completing licensure, targeting private schools or tutoring organizations first is a practical strategy.
How do I find History Teacher jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is designed specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters job listings by sponsorship and work authorization compatibility. Searching there gives you direct access to History Teacher roles posted by employers familiar with OPT, saving time you'd otherwise spend screening out positions that don't support work visa holders.
Will schools sponsor an H-1B visa after my OPT ends?
Some schools and school districts do sponsor H-1B visas, particularly larger districts with established HR processes, but it is not universal. Public universities and community colleges are more likely to sponsor than small private K-12 schools. Asking about long-term visa support during the offer stage, not during initial interviews, tends to get more honest responses.
Does STEM OPT extension apply to History Teacher roles?
Standard History Teacher roles do not qualify for STEM OPT extension because history and education degrees are typically not STEM-designated. However, if your degree is in a STEM field and you're teaching in an educational technology, data literacy, or STEM curriculum context, check with your DSO. Qualifying depends on both your degree and the specific job duties.