Hot for Teachers: High Demand in the Education Field

The need for school teachers is greater than ever, as new state and federal standards raise the bar for students. With many experienced teachers retiring, there is high demand for people with the desire, dedication, and education to teach.

More than ABCs and 123s: Why School Teachers Count

Wondering if a single school teacher can make a difference? An Education Week report cites one study that says so. It showed that students who had good teachers for three consecutive years performed significantly better on state tests than students who weren't so lucky. And the best predictor of how well a state's students will do on national tests? The percentage of well-qualified teachers they had.

What It Takes to Teach

According to the National Federation of Teachers, there are three common types of teacher training programs:

• Four- or five-year education degree programs leading to certification
• Shorter programs for people who already have bachelor's degrees
• Alternative licensing and certification programs that allow you to get into the classroom even if you haven't completed an education program

Some states will even allow you to complete certain requirements while you teach.

Start Teaching with an Online Degree Program

While all states require licensing for public school teachers, specific requirements vary by state, so contact your state's board of education for details. Then, get started by completing your bachelor's degree online. If you already have a bachelor's degree, enroll in a master's of education program online. With online education programs, you can keep your current job or possibly even start teaching while you earn your online degree and meet licensing requirements.

With an online degree, you'll be on your way to becoming one of those inspiring teachers who are so desperately needed by every school and every child.

Sources

• Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Teachers--Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary"
• America Federation of Teachers, "Becoming a Teacher"

About the Author
Jessica Phillips is a freelance writer with over seven years of experience as a writer and editor.