School Is Back In Session: is it too late to pursue teaching?
School is back in session! Thankfully, most students across the country are back in the classroom. They are showing up to class positive and ready to learn. As we admire their resilience, we encourage them that they can do it: they can learn and make a difference in the world! If you’re wanting to support these students and ensure they have an excellent chance at success, this is the time for you to pursue teaching.
Perhaps it’s been a while since you were in school and you’re feeling a bit intimidated about earning your teacher certification. But the truth is, you can do it too; you can make a difference in your local community! Although school is back in session, it is not too late for you to get started. Truly, now is a great time to transition to a teaching career.
Can I Start Teaching Midyear?
Yes. If you haven’t done so already, you can absolutely secure a teaching job once the school year has started. In fact, due to the teacher shortage, schools across the nation are starting the school year in need of more teachers.
Emergency Licenses
Many states offer an ’emergency license’ which allows locals to begin teaching immediately, even before completing a certification program. If you’re interested in getting into the classroom right away, this could be a good option for you. Speak with your local district to learn about their open positions, and whether they believe you qualify for an emergency license.
Substitute Options
If your state does not allow emergency licenses, it is possible that they use substitute teachers to fill long-term open positions. Again, you should speak with your local school district and see if this is an option for you.
In both situations, you’re able to pursue your teaching certificate while getting hands-on experience in the classroom. Additionally, you can help ensure that your neighborhood school has access to the number of teachers needed. Furthermore, students need positive teachers now more than ever—you could be that source of light for them.
Pursue a Teaching Career Today
Now that you know it is never too late to pursue a teaching career, it’s time to get started. Click here to learn if your state allows you to earn your teacher certification online. Online teacher certification is the best option for people looking to transition to a teaching career. For this population, online certification works well because it allows you to study and train on a schedule that works for you. For example, some people study online after they have put their children to sleep, others may study during their office job lunch break. The point is: online certification offers a flexibility you won’t find at a traditional university program.
Still uncertain if the process will be too overwhelming? Rest assured, American Board’s online program is the fastest and most affordable route to a teaching career in 15 states. Additionally—due to the high need for teachers—many states have updated policies to make it easier for local professionals to pursue teaching as their next career. This recent blog post details many of the state certification changes.
Lastly, this blog post by Edutopia shares excellent advice for securing your dream teaching position.
