Making a difference in the life of a child is one of the best benefits of becoming a teacher. You also get your summers off in most cases, and have great holiday breaks. Even so, when asked what is the best part of their job, teachers all say that the children are the reason they love their job. If you are a student looking to start a career in teaching after graduation or a professional already in the workforce looking for a career change, there are options for you. Here are the two best ways to become a teacher.
Obtaining a Teaching Degree
Attending a college or university, studying some type of education and graduating with a teaching degree is the traditional and most common method of becoming a teacher. These programs combine practice and pedagogy to help produce teachers who are versed in the most up to date research on effective teaching methods.
These programs can be rigorous depending on the school, and generally include two or more practice teaching experiences over the course of four years. These programs help you jump through the hoops of certification, informing you of deadlines and testing requirements, providing mentors and advice to guide you through the process. Many professors provide their students with letters of recommendation, interview tips and more.
Alternate Route Teacher Programs
An option that is increasing in popularity is the alternate teacher programs that are available across the country. Teach for America, and the Prince George's County Teaching Fellows are two such programs. These programs involve an in-depth screening process to choose highly qualified individuals from other careers and help them through the process of becoming a teacher.
Providing training, mentors, and certification support, these programs have a high level of success in the schools that accept their teachers. These programs usually have requirements including a certification fee, class attendance, test scores, a minimum contract length and a placement in a high-needs school*. Even so, they are familiar with the certification process and will help guide you through the hoops, providing support and encouragement.
The next generation of students needs teachers who are dedicated to providing them the best education possible, not only for a future career but for life. When considering whether you want to teach, remember the goal is not to have your summer's off, but to put in the extra time and effort necessary to reach the unreachable, teach the unteachable and love the unlovable.
You may also be interested in tips on getting a teaching job. and other tips for teachers.
*A high-needs school does not mean that you would teach special education students. Instead, it means that the school has a majority of students on a free or reduced breakfast and lunch program.
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