Most students may recall at least one teacher, whether in elementary, middle or high school, who was pivotal in shaping their interest in a subject. Motivated, committed instructors are essential to the intellectual development of our youth.
Their work provides many students with analytical skills, necessary knowledge and positive mentor-ship.
Determining whether to become a teacher is the right career choice for you may be a decision you will come to through experience. You may have served intermittently as a writing instructor or a private tutor, and would now like to pursue a long-term career as an educator.
The licenses you will need in order to teach will depend on what type of instructor you’d like to be, who you would like to instruct and the kind of school setting you would like to be in.
The availability of positions, in particular, depends heavily on the state in which you teach and the subject you decide to specialize in. Urban and rural public schools, for example, are traditionally in great need of qualified instructors.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), private school instruction often does not require licensing. These institutions may seek an instructor who holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject they wish to teach. In most states, individuals who wish to teach general education in public schools are required to hold a bachelor’s degree and complete supervised practice, and obtain a license from the State Board of Education.
The BLS adds that licensing practices vary from state to state. Every prospective teacher is tested on their basic competency in reading, writing and proficiency in their subject. Other states require continued learning for license renewal, such as a master’s degree in education.
Licensing may become easier with certification from an accredited program, the BLS notes. At most four-year colleges, students can apply for such education programs, and develop their skill sets through specialized teacher courses.
Even further certification is available for teachers who wish to show their advanced competence. These nationally certified professionals are often given higher salaries and benefits, and can teach in several different states.
According to the BLS website, in the 2005 to 2006 school year, entry-level teachers who held bachelor’s degrees earned an average of $33,227 per year.
