How to Become A Teacher

Making a Career Transition to Teaching

In the next decade, there will be 1.5 million teaching vacancies in the United States. Teaching offers attractive opportunities for career switchers, but is it right for you?

The Rewards

Teachers often form deep bonds with their students that can be life-changing for young people. Learn what teachers find most rewarding about their work.

The Challenges

Teaching can be tremendously gratifying, but it can also be frustrating, overwhelming and time-consuming. The potential negatives include a tough job-hunting climate, day-to-day demands of the job, the growing emphasis on testing, and a steep learning curve.

What Mid-Career Changers Bring to the Classroom

If you’ve spent years in another career, you’ve probably gained life experience, organizational skills, maturity and practice working with others. Administrators agree that middle-aged teachers bring a level of maturity that those fresh out of school often lack.

The ABCs of Schools

A detailed guide to employment at public, charter and private schools. Plus, a look at teachers unions.

Credentials 101

To teach in most U.S. public schools, you must be certified—and that means heading back to the classroom for some period of time. But certification requirements differ by state. Learn about the traditional route to certification, alternative paths—and the expense.

Is Teaching for You?

Now that you’re schooled in what teaching entails, you’ll have to decide if it’s the right career path. Here’s how to do a self-assessment.

Outstanding Training Programs

You can choose among many “A grade” education and training opportunities. In this chapter, learn about government, corporate, community-college, fellowship and online programs.

Getting Hired

Placement services are rare, so you’re pretty much on your own when it comes to finding a teaching position. Here are some tips for approaching the process.