Being a teacher is more than just a job; it's a chance to help people grow and change the world. Teachers make a huge difference in the lives of the students they work with, from kindergarteners learning to sound out their first words to high school seniors preparing for their next big step.

There has never been a better time to become a teacher in the U.S., where the need for skilled teachers is growing. This article will help you every step of the way, from learning about what a teacher does to getting your certifications and looking into the many rewarding ways this job can lead you down.

Step 1: Understand the Role of a Teacher

Let’s start with the basics. Take some time to learn about what it means to be a teacher and think about where you want to make a difference before you start.

What Teachers Really Do

Being a teacher is more than just standing in front of a class. It means planning lessons, giving grades, supporting your students' growth, and making friends with parents and coworkers to make the classroom a great place to learn.

Different Areas of Teaching

Teaching isn’t one-size-fits-all. You can choose a path that matches your interests and strengths. Some popular areas include:

Early Childhood Education (Pre-K): Helping little ones develop their first learning skills.
Elementary Education (Grades K-5): Teaching core subjects like math, science, and reading in one classroom.
Secondary Education (Grades 6-12): Specializing in subjects like English, history, or biology.
Special Education: Supporting students with unique learning needs.
English as a Second Language (ESL): Helping non-native speakers become confident in English.

Think about what you're really interested in and what age group or topic gets you the most excited.

Step 2: Meet the Educational Requirements

To become a teacher, you have to meet certain educational standards that make sure you have the knowledge and skills to help your students. The exact steps you need to take will depend on the state, subject, and grade level, but here are some of the most important ones:

Bachelor's Degree

In the US, getting a bachelor's degree is the first criteria to become a teacher. Most people who want to be teachers get degrees in education, but if you're really interested in a topic, like math, science, or English, you can major in that area and take extra classes to prepare for teaching. This makes sure that you know a lot about the subject and can also teach well enough to keep students interested.

For elementary school teachers, an elementary education degree usually covers a lot of different topics, like math, reading, social studies, and how to teach and how children learn. Most degrees for middle and high school teachers are more specialised and focus on a single topic.

Make sure you look into schools and universities that offer programs that are recognised by your state as being accredited. Accreditation makes sure that your degree meets the standards for getting certified.

Complete a Teacher Preparation Program

You can get the real-world skills you need to be a teacher in a school that prepares people to become teachers. These schools teach important things like how to run a classroom, plan lessons, and teach students with different learning styles. The goal is to get you ready to teach in the real world by giving you both theoretical and practical training.

These programs are usually part of bachelor's degree programs in teaching. You can, however, finish a separate program to become a teacher after graduation if your degree is in a different area. These are also known as alternative diploma programs or programs that lead to a bachelor's degree. Just make sure that the program is approved by the government and meets the standards for getting a licence in your state.

Most programs that prepare people to become teachers include a part called "student teaching." This is when you get to work in a classroom with a mentor teacher and learn how to be a teacher - we’ll cover this in more detail later. Getting real-life experience is a great way to boost your confidence, learn how to teach, and figure out how to run a classroom well.

Consider Advanced Degrees

As we’ve covered, a bachelor's degree is the bare minimum for becoming a teacher, but getting more advanced degrees can really help your job. As an example, a Master of Education (M.Ed.) or Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) is not required for entry-level jobs but can be very helpful in many ways.

To begin, many school systems pay teachers with advanced degrees more than teachers without them. Getting a master's degree can also help you get into more specialised jobs, like creating lessons, overseeing classes, or running a school. It can also help you learn more about things like STEM education, teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), or special education.

Some states may even require you to get a master's degree within a certain amount of time after you start teaching, so it's important to find out what the rules are in your state.

If you’ve completed all of these stages… Congratulations! You’lll soon be well-prepared and ready to make a difference in the lives of your students as a teacher.

Step 3: Get Licensed or Certified

To teach in public schools, you need a licence or approval from the state. There are a few important steps you need to take if you want to become a teacher, though the exact steps may vary from state to state. Know this:

Pass the Necessary Exams

Most states require aspiring teachers to pass specific exams to demonstrate their qualifications. These exams, such as the Praxis series, are designed to test your general teaching knowledge as well as your expertise in specific subject areas.

For instance, if you want to teach maths or science at a high school, you might need to pass extra tests that are specific to those subjects to show that you are good at them. A lot of the time, preparing for these tests means learning about subject areas, teaching methods, and how to run a classroom. In some states, you may also have to take tests that are based on their own education rules or standards for student learning.

Alternative Certification Programs

Alternative licensing programs can help you get your licence if you are switching from another job to teaching. Professionals can get their license and gain classroom experience at the same time through programs like Teach for America and others run by the states. A lot of the time, these programs include intense training, mentorship, and support networks to help you do well as you get used to your new job. They are a great choice for people who want to change careers and bring useful real-world experience to the classroom but still need to meet the formal requirements for a teaching licence. Many people who take part in these programs say they are both hard and fulfilling, and they give them a direct way to make a difference in the classroom.

Step 4: Get Real-World Experience

It might seem obvious, but getting inside the classroom is the best way to get ready to be a teacher. Getting real-world experience lets you put what you've learnt in your teacher training program to use, see how teachers really do their jobs, and gain the confidence you need to run a classroom well. Immersing yourself in the teaching environment is key to becoming a good teacher.

Student Teaching

Student teaching is a full-time, semester-long internship experience that serves as a critical step in the journey to becoming a licensed teacher in the United States. During this period, aspiring educators work closely with experienced mentor teachers in real classroom settings, gaining hands-on experience in lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement. This immersive experience allows student teachers to put theory into practice, develop their teaching skills, and build confidence in managing a classroom. It is a mandatory requirement in most U.S. states and is designed to prepare future educators for the challenges and rewards of a teaching career.

Other Opportunities

Looking for even more ways to improve your skills? You could look for extra opportunities like volunteering or filling in as a substitute teacher. By volunteering at schools or community groups in your area, you can meet people of all ages and learn in a variety of settings. As a volunteer, you can help with training, after-school programs, or classroom activities. This will give you a more complete picture of the teaching job. As a substitute teacher, on the other hand, you can go into different classrooms, quickly adjust to new situations, and gain useful experience managing students in real-life situations. You can practise communication, classroom management, and teaching methods in both choices. This is great way to build confidence and grow your professional network.

Step 5: Keep Learning and Growing

As a teacher, you need to keep up with new trends, techniques, and technological advances in order to give your students the best learning experience possible. Keeping your skills and knowledge up to date not only helps your students but also helps you grow as a person and in your job. Here are a few ways to stay ahead:

Degrees for Graduates

Getting a Master of Education or a similar higher degree can help you get into new teaching jobs. You can focus on things like curriculum development, educational technology, special education, or teaching reading and writing in these schools.

Also, getting a graduate degree can help you get ready for leadership jobs like becoming a principal, instructional coach, or district administrator. Besides helping you move up in your job, graduate programs often give you a deeper understanding of educational theories and practices. This gives you the tools you need to deal with tough problems in and out of the classroom.

Ongoing Training and Development

There are other ways to develop your skills without getting another degree. You can stay up to date on the latest teaching methods and educational trends by taking part in professional development activities such as classes, certifications, and training programs. Most of the time, these classes focus on practical skills like how to use technology in the classroom, how to control the mood in the classroom, or how to use new ways of teaching.

Professional development events also give teachers the chance to meet each other, share their ideas, and work together to come up with new ways to solve problems they all face. Many school districts and schools regularly offer these tools, which helps teachers keep getting better at what they do.

Step 6: Understand the Financial Side

While it's certainly true that teaching is deeply rewarding, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the financial aspects of the profession. Passion and purpose drive many educators, but knowing what to expect in terms of salary, financial aid, and benefits is key to planning a sustainable career.

Salary Expectations

Teacher salaries can vary widely based on factors like geographical location, years of experience, and education level. Urban districts and high-demand fields, such as special education and STEM, often offer higher salaries to attract talent.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for elementary school teachers is approximately $61,400, but this number can be significantly higher or lower depending on where you teach. For instance, states like New York or California tend to offer higher salaries, while rural areas may pay less but balance it out with a lower cost of living. Additionally, teachers with advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, can qualify for higher pay scales in many districts.

Financial Aid and Benefits

For those entering the teaching profession, there are numerous financial aid options available to help manage the cost of education. Programs like TEACH Grants or state-funded scholarships provide funding for students pursuing teaching degrees, especially in high-need subjects or underserved areas. These grants can cover a significant portion of tuition, reducing the overall financial burden.

Beyond tuition assistance, teachers in certain high-need schools or specialties may qualify for federal student loan forgiveness programs, such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which can forgive remaining student loan balances after 120 qualifying payments. Additionally, some states offer their own loan forgiveness or incentive programs for teachers willing to work in underserved communities.

Teachers also benefit from a range of employment perks. Many districts offer comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave, as well as opportunities for professional development that can lead to salary increases. Some schools even provide housing stipends or relocation bonuses to attract educators to high-demand areas.

Key Resources for Aspiring Teachers

Embarking on a teaching career is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. To help guide you along the way, here are some valuable tools, organizations, and platforms that can support your journey and set you up for success:

TEACH: This comprehensive platform offers everything you need to kickstart your teaching career. From understanding certification requirements to exploring financial aid options, TEACH.org provides step-by-step guidance for aspiring educators. You’ll also find tips on navigating the application process and advice for thriving in the classroom.

National Education Association: The NEA is the largest professional organization for educators in the U.S. It offers advocacy, resources, and support for teachers at every stage of their careers. Whether you’re looking for teaching strategies, professional development opportunities, or updates on education policies, NEA.org is an essential resource.

Zen Educate: If you're just starting out and looking for practical experience, Zen Educate is a great platform to explore. It helps you find teaching assistant or substitute teaching roles, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in the classroom. These roles are perfect for building your resume, developing classroom management skills, and understanding the day-to-day responsibilities of educators.

By leveraging these resources, you can gain the knowledge, connections, and experience needed to succeed as an educator. Whether you're researching certification, seeking financial support, or looking for opportunities to get your foot in the door, these tools can make your journey smoother and more rewarding.

FAQs

Do I need a teaching license to work in schools?

Yes, in most cases. Public schools usually require a state-issued teaching license or certification, but private schools may have different requirements.

What are alternative certification programs?

These programs allow individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field to earn their teaching credentials while working in the classroom.

What subjects are in high demand for teachers?

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), special education, and bilingual education are among the most in-demand teaching areas.

Can I teach online without a teaching degree?

Yes, many online teaching platforms hire educators with expertise in specific subjects, though some may require a degree or teaching experience.

How much do teachers earn?

Salaries vary by location, grade level, and experience. On average, teachers earn between $40,000 and $60,000 per year in the U.S., with potential increases for advanced degrees or certifications.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Becoming a teacher is a journey filled with growth, challenges, and immense rewards. By following this guide and researching state-specific requirements, you’ll be well on your way to making a difference in students’ lives.

The next generation is waiting for educators like you—why not start today?

Already Qualified? Start Applying for Teaching Roles

If you already meet all the necessary requirements, such as having a bachelor's degree, passing certification exams, and completing a teacher preparation program, you're ready to start applying for teaching roles. Here’s how you can streamline the process:

Using Zen Educate

Zen Educate is a platform that matches qualified teachers with schools across the country. Simply create a profile, upload your credentials, and start browsing available positions that match your qualifications and interests. This platform can significantly reduce the time and effort needed to find the perfect teaching job. You an sign up for free here!