With the shortage of qualified teachers across the country, many school districts have relaxed hiring requirements to attract graduates of teacher training programs, or people with bachelor's degrees who commit to attending to a teacher education program. Many education professionals are getting hire-on bonuses just to join districts hit hard by teacher retirements and growing student populations.
Aspirants can receive their teacher training at trade schools, private campus or online programs, colleges, and universities. Within the larger field, prospective teachers may choose among pre-school, elementary, middle, secondary, or special education specializations
Each state has its own set of hiring standards and licensing requirements, so it's important to contact the districts in communities where you hope to work as a teacher. Common among most state regulations are requirements for a completed undergraduate degree and additional education in a dedicated teacher training program.
Some districts have partnerships with colleges and universities that offer one-year teacher training programs that accelerate new teachers into the classroom. For example, a community in a state which allows accelerated training will put you in the classroom by issuing an emergency teaching credential. You can begin teaching and attend your training program concurrently.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that some 3.8 million teachers held preschool, elementary, middle, and secondary jobs in 2004. New opportunities will vary from "good to excellent" through 2014 based on each district's needs, with inner city and rural school districts looking to make the most new hires. Special education teachers will be among the most-coveted new professionals.
