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How a middle school teacher can use AI, task by task

O*NET 25-2022.00: Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical EducationMedian pay $64,370/year (BLS, May 2025)35 tasksJob Zone 4: Considerable preparation

Teach one or more subjects to students at the middle, intermediate, or junior high school level.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Art Teacher, English Teacher, Language Arts Teacher (LA Teacher), Math Teacher (Mathematics Teacher), Middle School Teacher, Music Teacher, PE Teacher (Physical Education Teacher), Science Teacher, Social Studies Teacher, Teacher.

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 19%AI-assist 44%Stays human 38%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 6 AI-ready, 16 AI-assist and 13 human-led tasks out of 35. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

💪 Lean into these

Core tasks that stay human. These skills get more valuable as the routine work gets automated.

  1. Observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.Lead people · Several times a day
  2. Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.Hands-on work · Several times a day
  3. Enforce all administration policies and rules governing students.Lead people · Several times a day

🔒 Many of these tasks involve people's information. Remove names and identifying details before using AI, or use only a tool your employer has approved.

AI can draft these 6

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects, and communicate these objectives to students.

Daily

AI drafts lesson plans, quizzes and practice scenarios.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft lesson plans, training outlines, quizzes and practice scenarios in minutes. You shape them around your learners and your standards.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects, and communicate these objectives to students.

Context: We use Moodle and Schoology; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Course or unit: [subject, level]
What learners should be able to do: [rough goals]

Write measurable learning objectives using clear verbs, and an assessment idea for each. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Write learning objectives

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish clear objectives (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course or unit] and your rough goals in [What learners should be able to do].
Step 3Share them with learners at the start of the unit.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop instructional objectives..

Maintain accurate, complete, and correct student records as required by laws, district policies, and administrative regulations.

Daily

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to maintain accurate, complete, and correct student records as required by laws, district policies, and administrative regulations.

Context: We use Microsoft SharePoint and Microsoft Word.
Records: [grades, attendance, reports]
Rules: [privacy]

Draft templates or entries without names. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Student records

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you maintain accurate (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Records] and [Rules] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every fact, name and number against your source before it goes anywhere. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain student records..

Use computers, audio-visual aids, and other equipment and materials to supplement presentations.

Daily

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to use computers, audio-visual aids, and other equipment and materials to supplement presentations.

Context: We use Moodle and Schoology; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Course: [subject, level]
Platform: [LMS, website]

Plan a module structure, multimedia pieces and accessibility checks. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Online course materials

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you use computers and audio-visual aids (today).
Step 2Fill in [Course] and [Platform] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check accessibility (captions, alt text) before publishing.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Create technology-based learning materials..

Prepare for assigned classes and show written evidence of preparation upon request of immediate supervisors.

Weekly

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to prepare for assigned classes and show written evidence of preparation upon request of immediate supervisors.

Context: We use Microsoft SharePoint; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Class: [grade, subject]
Lesson: [topic, objectives, activities]

Write a lesson plan with objectives, materials, timing, activities, differentiation and assessment. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Lesson plan write-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare for assigned classes (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Class] and [Lesson] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Adapt it for your actual class and check it meets your school's template.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Document lesson plans.. Also involves: Plan educational activities..

Prepare objectives and outlines for courses of study, following curriculum guidelines or requirements of states and schools.

Weekly

AI drafts lesson plans, quizzes and practice scenarios.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft lesson plans, training outlines, quizzes and practice scenarios in minutes. You shape them around your learners and your standards.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to prepare objectives and outlines for courses of study, following curriculum guidelines or requirements of states and schools.

Context: We use Common Curriculum and Moodle; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Course or unit: [subject, level]
What learners should be able to do: [rough goals]

Write measurable learning objectives using clear verbs, and an assessment idea for each. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Write learning objectives

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare objectives and outlines (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Course or unit] and your rough goals in [What learners should be able to do].
Step 3Share them with learners at the start of the unit.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop instructional objectives..

Prepare reports on students and activities as required by administration.

Monthly

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to prepare reports on students and activities as required by administration.

Context: We use Microsoft SharePoint and Microsoft Word.
Report: [required report type]
Data: [paste, anonymized]

Draft the report. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Student or instruction report

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare reports on students and activities. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Report] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every fact, name and number against your source before it goes anywhere.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Prepare reports detailing student activities or performance..

AI can help you prep these 16

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Instruct through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in one or more subjects, such as English, mathematics, or social studies.

Several times a day

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to instruct through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in one or more subjects, such as English, mathematics, or social studies.

Context: We use Moodle and Schoology; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Topic: [describe]
Learners: [describe]

Plan a lesson mixing lecture, demonstration, practice and discussion. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Mix of teaching methods

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you instruct through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in one.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Apply multiple teaching methods..

Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students.

Several times a day

AI drafts the structure and wording; the specifics and sign-off are yours.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft the structure and standard wording. The specifics, the judgment calls and the sign-off are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students.

Context: We use Microsoft SharePoint and Microsoft Word.
Class: [age group or lab setting]
Concerns: [safety, behaviour, routines]

Draft clear, positive rules with reasons, consequences, and a way to teach them in the first week.

10-minute exercise: Classroom rules

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish and enforce rules. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Class] and [Concerns] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach them and review after two weeks.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Establish rules or policies governing student behavior..

Assign lessons and correct homework.

Daily

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 47% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to assign lessons and correct homework.

Context: We use Google Classroom and Microsoft Excel; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Class: [grade, subject]
Unit and time: [topic, weeks]

Plan assignments with purpose, time needed, due dates and how each will be checked. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Classwork and homework plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you assign lessons (today).
Step 2Fill in [Class] and [Unit and time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Make sure the total homework load is reasonable for the grade.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Assign class work to students.. Also involves: Evaluate student work..

Prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments to evaluate students' progress.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments to evaluate students' progress.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Moodle; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Course and unit: [subject, level]
Outcomes to test: [what learners should know or do]

Draft a short assessment: mixed question types, an answer key, a marking rubric, and how results map to outcomes.

10-minute exercise: Assessment design

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare, administer, and grade tests and assignments (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course and unit] and [Outcomes to test] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer in the key and cut any question you wouldn't ask.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Administer tests to assess educational needs or progress.. Also involves: Prepare tests.; Evaluate student work..

Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.

Context: We use Moodle and Schoology; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Lesson: [topic]
Learner needs: [general description, no names]

Suggest adaptations: different entry points, supports, extensions and checks for understanding. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Adapt the lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you adapt teaching methods and instructional materials (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Lesson] and [Learner needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Try one adaptation and note how learners respond.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Modify teaching methods or materials to accommodate student needs..

Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Moodle; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Learners: [age, level]
Topic and time: [subject, sessions]

Plan activities with objectives, materials, timing and differentiation. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a unit or activity

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learners] and [Topic and time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach one activity and note what worked.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan educational activities..

Assist students who need extra help, such as by tutoring and preparing and implementing remedial programs.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 23% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to assist students who need extra help, such as by tutoring and preparing and implementing remedial programs.

Context: We use Moodle and Schoology; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Student need: [topic, exam, performance]
Time: [minutes]

Plan a diagnostic question, targeted practice and a confidence check. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Tutoring session

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you assist students who need extra help (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Student need] and [Time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3End with one thing the student can do on their own.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Tutor students who need extra assistance..

Collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of middle school programs.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of middle school programs.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Moodle; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Topic: [unit, schedule]
Colleagues: [teachers, staff]

Draft a co-planning agenda and lesson outline. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Co-plan lessons

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Colleagues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs..

Meet with other professionals to discuss individual students' needs and progress.

Weekly

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to meet with other professionals to discuss individual students' needs and progress.

Context: We use Zoom and Google Meet.
Issue: [describe without names]
What I need: [decision, help, awareness]

Draft a short message or talking points: the facts, the impact, and my suggested next step.

10-minute exercise: Raise an issue with a supervisor

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you meet with other professionals to discuss individual students' needs (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Issue] and [What I need] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Stick to facts and bring a suggested solution.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Discuss problems or issues with supervisors..

Confer with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to confer with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Moodle; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Topic: [unit, schedule]
Colleagues: [teachers, staff]

Draft a co-planning agenda and lesson outline. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Co-plan lessons

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you confer with other staff members to plan and schedule. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Colleagues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs..

Organize and supervise games and other recreational activities to promote physical, mental, and social development.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to organize and supervise games and other recreational activities to promote physical, mental, and social development.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Moodle; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Learners: [age, level]
Topic and time: [subject, sessions]

Plan activities with objectives, materials, timing and differentiation. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a unit or activity

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you organize and supervise games and other recreational activities (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Learners] and [Topic and time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach one activity and note what worked.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan educational activities..

Coordinate and supervise extracurricular activities, such as clubs, student organizations, and academic contests.

Monthly

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to coordinate and supervise extracurricular activities, such as clubs, student organizations, and academic contests.

Context: We use Google Classroom and Microsoft Excel; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Activity: [performance group, events]
Students: [describe]

Plan schedule and communication. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Extracurricular plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you coordinate and supervise extracurricular activities. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Students] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Importance 3.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Coordinate student extracurricular activities..

Plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guest speakers, or other experiential activities, and guide students in learning from such activities.

A few times a year

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guest speakers, or other experiential activities, and guide students in learning from such activities.

Context: We use Moodle and Schoology; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Course: [subject]
Options: [sites, labs, community partners]

Plan the experience: learning goals, logistics, safety, pre-work and a reflection task. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a field trip or hands-on experience

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you plan and supervise class projects, field trips and visits. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course] and [Options] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan experiential learning activities..

Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.

Monthly

AI preps the paperwork; approving and paying stay with you.

Show prompt & steps

AI can prep the paperwork, extract details from documents and make checklists. Approving, paying and verifying stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.

Context: We use Microsoft SharePoint and Blackboard software.
Materials: [parts, supplies]
Data: [paste counts]

Organize inventory with reorder flags. Point out anything missing or inconsistent and suggest a template I can reuse.

10-minute exercise: Materials inventory

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials and supplies.
Step 2Fill in [Materials] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the template and use it on the next one. Time both.

Personal, financial and health data shouldn't go into AI tools unless your employer has approved one for it.

Importance 3.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.. Also involves: Distribute instructional or library materials.; Order instructional or library materials or equipment..

Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops to maintain and improve professional competence.

A few times a year

AI explains and quizzes you; confirm against official sources.

Show prompt & steps

AI can explain new developments and quiz you. Confirm what you learn against official sources.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops to maintain and improve professional competence.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Event: [training, conference, professional meeting]
What I want from it: [skills, contacts, answers]

Prepare a primer on the main topics, 5 questions to ask, and a one-page template for notes and actions.

10-minute exercise: Make a meeting or training count

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you attend professional meetings, educational conferences and teacher training workshops.
Step 2Fill in [Event] and [What I want from it] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Turn one action into something you do the following week.

AI's knowledge has a cutoff date. For new regulations and standards, always confirm against the official source.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Attend training sessions or professional meetings to develop or maintain professional knowledge..

Administer standardized ability and achievement tests, and interpret results to determine student strengths and needs.

A few times a year

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to administer standardized ability and achievement tests, and interpret results to determine student strengths and needs.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Moodle; the work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Course and unit: [subject, level]
Outcomes to test: [what learners should know or do]

Draft a short assessment: mixed question types, an answer key, a marking rubric, and how results map to outcomes.

10-minute exercise: Assessment design

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you administer standardized ability and achievement tests. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course and unit] and [Outcomes to test] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer in the key and cut any question you wouldn't ask.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Administer tests to assess educational needs or progress..

These stay human 13

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Face-to-face discussions: every day · Contact with others: constant contact with others · Physical closeness to others: moderately close (at arm's length) · Frequency of decisions: once a week or more but not every day

Observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

Several times a day

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Age group: [describe]
Areas: [social, physical, behaviour, health]

Make an observation checklist with age-appropriate milestones and notes for parent conversations. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Child development observation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you observe and evaluate students' performance, behavior and social development. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Age group] and [Areas] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use it for one week of observations.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Monitor student behavior, social development, or health.. Also involves: Monitor student performance.; Evaluate student work..

Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.

Several times a day

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Activity: [lesson, centres]
Learners: [age, number]

List materials, room layout and set-up order. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Classroom set-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare materials and classrooms.
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the room is safe and accessible before learners arrive.

Importance 4.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Set up classroom materials or equipment..

Enforce all administration policies and rules governing students.

Several times a day

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to enforce all administration policies and rules governing students.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Rule or situation: [behaviour issue, no names]
Policy: [school rule]

Give me calm wording to address it, steps if it continues, and how to stay consistent.

10-minute exercise: Consistent rule enforcement

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you enforce all administration policies and rules governing students. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Rule or situation] and [Policy] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use it next time and reflect on how it went.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Enforce rules or policies governing student behavior..

Prepare students for later grades by encouraging them to explore learning opportunities and to persevere with challenging tasks.

Daily

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to prepare students for later grades by encouraging them to explore learning opportunities and to persevere with challenging tasks.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Students: [age, situation]
Challenge: [motivation, confidence]

Prepare encouraging feedback phrases and growth-mindset prompts. Then play a discouraged student. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Encouraging students

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare students (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Students] and [Challenge] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3After the real conversation, write down what worked so you can reuse it.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Encourage students..

Confer with parents or guardians, other teachers, counselors, and administrators to resolve students' behavioral and academic problems.

Weekly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to confer with parents or guardians, other teachers, counselors, and administrators to resolve students' behavioral and academic problems.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Student progress: [strengths, concerns; no names]
Goals: [what you want to agree]

Prepare an agenda, examples, questions and a shared plan. Then play the parent. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Parent-teacher conference

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you confer with parents or guardians (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Student progress] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Send a short summary of agreed actions afterward.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Discuss student progress with parents or guardians.. Also involves: Discuss problems or issues with supervisors..

Instruct and monitor students in the use and care of equipment and materials to prevent injury and damage.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to instruct and monitor students in the use and care of equipment and materials to prevent injury and damage.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Situation: [grades, misconduct, attendance, no names]
Goal: [support or discipline outcome]

Help me plan the conversation, the support options, and how to document it. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Student performance follow-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you instruct and monitor students (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Situation] and [Goal] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use the plan and record the outcome. Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site procedure before you rely on it.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Monitor student performance.. Also involves: Teach others to use technology or equipment..

Guide and counsel students with adjustment or academic problems, or special academic interests.

Weekly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to guide and counsel students with adjustment or academic problems, or special academic interests.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Who: [student, mentee; no names]
Topic: [courses, career, research]

Prepare questions to understand their goals, options to discuss, and next steps. Then play the student.

10-minute exercise: Advising session

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you guide and counsel students (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Who] and [Topic] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3End with one concrete next step they own.

📊 People already use AI around this task (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026). The task itself stays human-led.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Advise students on academic or career matters..

Attend staff meetings and serve on staff committees, as required.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to attend staff meetings and serve on staff committees, as required.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Committee: [board, department, governing body]
Agenda item: [describe]
My view: [what I'll argue for]

Prepare my position in 2 sentences, the strongest counter-arguments, questions to ask, and what I'll vote or decide based on.

10-minute exercise: Committee meeting prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you attend staff meetings (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Committee], [Agenda item] and [My view] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Read the papers yourself before the meeting.

Importance 3.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Serve on institutional or departmental committees..

Perform administrative duties, such as school library assistance, hall and cafeteria monitoring, and bus loading and unloading.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to perform administrative duties, such as school library assistance, hall and cafeteria monitoring, and bus loading and unloading.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Activity: [recess, events, transport, clubs]
Risks: [safety, behaviour]

Make a supervision plan: positions, rules, what to watch, and responses. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Supervising activities plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform administrative duties (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Risks] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 3.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Supervise school or student activities..

Organize and label materials and display students' work.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to organize and label materials and display students' work.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Work: [art, projects]
Space: [walls, gallery]

Plan layout and labels. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Student work display

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you organize and label materials (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Work] and [Space] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check consent for displaying names or images.

Importance 3.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Display student work..

Meet or correspond with parents or guardians to discuss children's progress and to determine priorities and resource needs.

Monthly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to meet or correspond with parents or guardians to discuss children's progress and to determine priorities and resource needs.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Student progress: [strengths, concerns; no names]
Goals: [what you want to agree]

Prepare an agenda, examples, questions and a shared plan. Then play the parent. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Parent-teacher conference

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you meet or correspond with parents or guardians.
Step 2Fill in [Student progress] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Send a short summary of agreed actions afterward.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Discuss student progress with parents or guardians..

Provide students with disabilities with assistive devices, supportive technology, and assistance accessing facilities, such as restrooms.

Monthly

Hands-on care. AI only helps with prep, explanations and paperwork.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can help around the care: plain-language explanations for patients, study and revision, checklists and paperwork drafts. Use only tools your employer has approved for health information.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to provide students with disabilities with assistive devices, supportive technology, and assistance accessing facilities, such as restrooms.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Needs: [general description]
Supports: [devices, accommodations]

List supports and how to use them in class. Keep it free of any patient details, add plain-language wording I can use with people, and list the warning signs that mean I should escalate.

10-minute exercise: Supporting students with special needs

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you provide students. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Needs] and [Supports] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Compare it line by line with your protocol. Your protocol always wins.

Importance 3.9/5 · O*NET work activity: Assist students with special educational needs..

Supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments for teacher assistants and volunteers.

Monthly

Your accountable call. Use AI as a sounding board beforehand.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI as a sounding board before you decide. Ask it to argue the other side, list what you might be overlooking, or organize the evidence.

Prep prompt

I work as a middle school teacher. Part of my job is to supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments for teacher assistants and volunteers.

Context: The work draws on philosophy and theology, history and archeology and education and training.
Evidence: [observations, student evaluations, research, service, no names]
Criteria: [your institution's standards]

Organize the evidence against each criterion, note strengths and growth areas, and suggest discussion questions. I make the judgment.

10-minute exercise: Prepare a faculty evaluation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments.
Step 2Fill in [Evidence] and [Criteria] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Write the judgment yourself and use the questions in the meeting.

Importance 3.1/5 · O*NET work activity: Evaluate performance of educational staff.. Also involves: Supervise student research or internship work..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

Stays human Deepen these

They power the human-led work, which is the part of the job AI can't take over.

  • Monitoringimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  • Active Listeningimportance 4.0/5
    Used in: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  • Reading Comprehensionimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  • Social Perceptivenessimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Critical Thinkingimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Thinking Creatively
  • Writingimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Documenting/Recording Information
  • Speakingimportance 4.1/5
    Used in: Training and Teaching Others
  • Management of Personnel Resourcesimportance 2.9/5
    Used in: Training and Teaching Others

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

Getting into this job

Bachelor's degree is most common (67% of workers)

  • High school or less 10%
  • Bachelor's 88%
  • Graduate degree 2%
  • On-the-job training: up to 1 month
  • Related experience: 6–12 months
  • Professional certification: important (3.4/5)

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

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