Becoming a Teacher
Are you thinking about becoming a teacher? The benefits of being a teacher are many, and here is what you need to know about how to become a teacher.
How much do teachers earn? What are the reasons for becoming a teacher? Are there certain characteristics of a good teacher?
These are all excellent questions for anyone considering entering the teaching profession, whether it is primary, intermediate, high school, or beyond.
However, becoming a primary school teacher is not for everyone. It is not easy, it takes a lot of hard work, but the rewards are tremendous. Not just in how much money do teachers earn (and it really is not that bad), but in how teachers - good teachers - really can make a difference for many children.
Visit Teaching and Education to learn more about becoming a teacher.

Ask yourself this question: What are my reasons for becoming a teacher? If you say, "I love being with kids," then that is a good step to becoming a primary school teacher. But you have to want this for other reasons as well.
Do you want to make a difference? Do you want to be continually challenged and learn new things every year? Do you want to help parents fulfill their dreams for their child? Do you have a passion for working with those children who come from poverty-stricken homes?
Maybe you are looking for an opportunity to teach overseas?
Steps for Becoming a Teacher
First, a primary requirement is to have a Bachelor's degree. This will certify you to teach. If you are focusing on primary education you should have a major in elementary education.
You would also do well to pick up a reading or math endorsement, and if you want to be really marketable, add in a Special Education license. A Masters in Education is usually required to retain your license, depending on where you live. This will also help with moving up on the pay scale. States are constantly changing and updating their requirements so be sure you have fulfilled their terms.
Second, you may have to take continuing education courses, particularly if you are lacking a few requirements for becoming licensed in other states or countries.
Many districts look favorably upon candidates who continually update their resumes with education courses.
Teaching and Education Courses from ed2go are quite popular and are generally accepted for credit towards masters degrees and salary increases.
I often take my courses online as I cannot seem to find the time to actually go to a university. Many local colleges offer online courses. Click here to take an online course from a local community college
If you want to earn a degree while working from well recognized Universities and Colleges, you could also contact The Degree Experts. Go to Certification Map to check the requirements each state has for becoming a teacher.
Third, in order to obtain your license, there are tests you will need to pass.
Different states and countries have different requirements. As well, you will need to show that you are highly qualified in certain areas, and that can only be done through taking courses and/or passing the certification for certain areas.
The Praxis Exam exam consists of Praxis I (often taken to gain entry into an education college and for state licensing) and Praxis II (measuring content area knowledge and specific teaching skills).
Fourth, most teachers get their jobs through "knowing someone who knows someone else." This means you need to get to know people in the local school systems you will be applying to, try to get your student teaching assignment in the district you would like to work in, substitute teach...anything to get your name out there.
An excellent resume is also must. Get professional resume help from theexperts at ResumeEdge, especially if you are just starting out or changing careers.
Another good resource is How To Write Anything.
Get to know some teachers and network. This is critical when many of the initial screenings for districts are now completed on-line.
Since teaching positions are so scarce right now, it is important that you are prepared to come across as professional, knowledgeable about recent research and practices as well as showing you possess the qualities that make a good teacher.
If you are doubtful about your interviewing skills, it would be worth the time and investment to work with Job Interview coaches via telephone and ace your interview. Low Prices! Administrators do talk, and if your interview does not go well, the likelihood of a second one somewhere else in the district is very slim.
Good luck to you if you are becoming a teacher! It is a very rewarding career.
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