by Don Gorman
Today's classroom teachers are members of a vital and rewarding profession. Teacher shortages are upon us. Public and private schools are earnest in their quest to find the right person for the right classroom.
If you are considering the teaching profession, here are some steps to help guarantee a good fit:
- Interview a teacher: Now that you are no longer a high school student, it is important to consider the realities of a classroom from the "other side of the desk." Prepare questions you would like answered by someone on the inside and use them to interview teachers and school administrators.
- Conduct classroom observations: Seek permission to shadow teachers at the grade level or in the curricular areas in which you aspire to teach. Observe a variety of teaching and learning styles. School principals can be helpful in arranging such experiences. (Note: principals must be aware of your presence on their campuses.)
- Seek a mentor: Look for people in your life who will serve as mentors and positive role models as you explore teaching as a career. Consider relatives in the education profession, former teachers, college and university professors, and career services' professionals.
- Assess your skills to teach: While there are a wide variety of skills possessed by good teachers, it is impossible to make a comprehensive list. However most successful teachers are known for loving and respecting their students, having high expectations for themselves and their students, and having the ability to adapt to changing demands in education. See your college's career center for help in the assessment process.
- Validate your interests through practical experiences: Work with children and/or in your preferred content areas to get additional experience. Internships, part-time and summer employment, and volunteer experiences will help you decide if teaching is for you.
- Choose a teacher preparation program suited to your needs: Public schools require teachers to be certified by their states. However, certification programs vary from state to state and among teacher preparation institutions within states. Research what each program offers you in terms of your schedule, learning outcomes, resources, and student support.
- Maintain a close relationship with your institution's career services center: Whether in an education program or centralized career services office, you will find professionals ready to assist you with all of these steps. Seek them out and make them work for you.