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What advice would you give to students who are wanting to become teachers?
Hello, what advice would you give to students who are wanting to become teachers. I am specifically wanting to be a high school English teacher, and would like all the help I can get.
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6 answers
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Logan’s Answer
Hi Micah,
First, let me just say how happy I am so see you want to become and English teacher! It is such a crucial role and I am sure you will fill it well. Here are 3 quick actionable tips:
- Bachelor’s Degree in English or Education:
You need a bachelor’s degree, typically with a major in English or secondary education, to provide subject matter expertise and foundational teaching skills.
- Completion of a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program:
You must complete a teacher preparation program, which includes coursework in pedagogy and supervised student teaching experience.
- State Certification or Licensure:
You are required to pass relevant state exams (such as subject area tests and basic skills assessments) and obtain a teaching certificate or license for secondary education in your state.
As far as advice for becoming a teacher, I say you should go directly to the source. Ask your English teachers how they got to where they are. If someone doesn't help you, then ask another! I taught for 4 semesters. Teaching public speaking to college freshmen has been the most rewarding experience of my life. There's no feeling like it. I only got there though by learning the tips and tricks from experienced teachers.
If for some reason you English teacher's are not accessible, I recommend volunteering at a local school or doing some outreach to teachers in the area who you can meet in person and ask them questions. Best of luck in your endeavors and feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn if you have any questions!
First, let me just say how happy I am so see you want to become and English teacher! It is such a crucial role and I am sure you will fill it well. Here are 3 quick actionable tips:
- Bachelor’s Degree in English or Education:
You need a bachelor’s degree, typically with a major in English or secondary education, to provide subject matter expertise and foundational teaching skills.
- Completion of a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program:
You must complete a teacher preparation program, which includes coursework in pedagogy and supervised student teaching experience.
- State Certification or Licensure:
You are required to pass relevant state exams (such as subject area tests and basic skills assessments) and obtain a teaching certificate or license for secondary education in your state.
As far as advice for becoming a teacher, I say you should go directly to the source. Ask your English teachers how they got to where they are. If someone doesn't help you, then ask another! I taught for 4 semesters. Teaching public speaking to college freshmen has been the most rewarding experience of my life. There's no feeling like it. I only got there though by learning the tips and tricks from experienced teachers.
If for some reason you English teacher's are not accessible, I recommend volunteering at a local school or doing some outreach to teachers in the area who you can meet in person and ask them questions. Best of luck in your endeavors and feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn if you have any questions!
Updated
Bernadette’s Answer
Be patient, calm, and open to a variety of students and their art styles. You may have a favorite but don't let that lead you. Remember the reason it is art is because it isn't "cookie cutter". All of your students are people that need the motivation and encouragement to be the best they can be. Push them in that direction. Think coach in this aspect.
Nija Jackson, LCSW
Compassionate and Dedicated Social Worker currently seeking Social Work opportunities to establish growth and longevity.
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Nija’s Answer
To become a teacher, start by remembering why you want to teach. Teaching is more than a job; it's about shaping lives and making a difference. The journey can be tough, but it's also very rewarding.
Here's what you can do:
1. **Get Real Experience:** Volunteer, tutor, or work with kids in any setting. Being in a classroom helps you decide if teaching is right for you and teaches you more than books can.
2. **Improve Communication Skills:** Learn to listen, explain clearly, and adapt to different learning styles. Practicing these skills now will help you later.
3. **Stay Curious and Flexible:** Education changes, and so do students. Be open to new ideas and tools. The best teachers are always learning.
4. **Find a Mentor:** Connect with a teacher, professor, or student teacher. Learning from someone experienced can give you valuable insights and support.
5. **Take Care of Yourself:** Teaching takes emotional energy. Start habits that support your mental health and set boundaries. You'll appreciate it later.
6. **Know Your ‘Why’:** On tough days, your purpose keeps you going. Keep your passion at the forefront and bring your true self into the classroom.
Here's what you can do:
1. **Get Real Experience:** Volunteer, tutor, or work with kids in any setting. Being in a classroom helps you decide if teaching is right for you and teaches you more than books can.
2. **Improve Communication Skills:** Learn to listen, explain clearly, and adapt to different learning styles. Practicing these skills now will help you later.
3. **Stay Curious and Flexible:** Education changes, and so do students. Be open to new ideas and tools. The best teachers are always learning.
4. **Find a Mentor:** Connect with a teacher, professor, or student teacher. Learning from someone experienced can give you valuable insights and support.
5. **Take Care of Yourself:** Teaching takes emotional energy. Start habits that support your mental health and set boundaries. You'll appreciate it later.
6. **Know Your ‘Why’:** On tough days, your purpose keeps you going. Keep your passion at the forefront and bring your true self into the classroom.
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
Borrowing from Nike... Just Do It! We truly need passionate teachers to inspire and guide students. If you're thinking about becoming a teacher, we need you! Here's some advice: go in with your eyes wide open. Research all the requirements for the school district you want to work in. Different states and districts have different rules, so knowing this ahead of time will save you time and money on courses and the degree you need. Reflect on what's important to you. What did you enjoy in your classes, and what didn't you like? Consider the kind of teacher you want to be, and let that guide you during student teaching and whenever you have the chance to teach. Teaching is a big responsibility, but it's also incredibly rewarding. I can't wait to see the amazing impact you'll have!
Updated
Brooke’s Answer
Explore the school you want to join and apply for as many scholarships, loans, and financial aid options as you can. Decide which grade level you want to teach English, whether it's K-6 or K-12. You might choose General Education or Special Education English. Reach out to fellow English teachers for support and guidance. They can help you through each step of the process.
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Mark’s Answer
I spent 15 years in education and can say that teaching is a truly rewarding and challenging job. It's important to make sure you're becoming a teacher for the right reasons. Every student in your class will need different things from you, so a one-size-fits-all approach won't work. To really succeed, you'll need to be flexible, adaptable, and kind.