Teachers are the future. They are charged with teaching young minds and teaching future leaders. It’s an exciting and crucial role in our society. But it can also feel overwhelming to take on this career. Educators are in charge of students all day, working to help learners with varying abilities grasp the same concepts. Teachers of K-12 students, whatever education subject or specialty they teach, are responsible for communicating specific curriculum to students. They introduce new concepts and provide strategies to help students understand these concepts better. 

Teachers also help children with education on emotional and social issues, working to help them grow and develop as people and as learners. Teachers and student teachers act as role models for students. They help them understand how to behave in certain situations, how to get along with each other, how to be respectful and kind, and more. Teachers of older students work to help them be prepared for their future, finding passion for careers and interests that can fuel their jobs. They may also help students navigate the difficulty of change, growing up, and getting through the challenges of being a teenager. Teachers take on many responsibilities when they walk into the classroom, but there are many benefits for them as well. So why should you become a teacher? Learn more about the benefits from being a teacher, and how you can become one.

Simply put, we can always use more teachers in our classrooms. All across the country there is a shortage of teachers, for all ages and disciplines. This means there is currently a high demand for educators and now is a great time to earn a teaching degree. Districts around the country are working to reinstate teacher positions they may have previously let go, classroom sizes are getting smaller so there is a demand for more teachers, and currently teaching has a high level of attrition, so positions come available regularly. And while there is a high demand for new teachers, there is an extreme shortage for qualified prospective teachers to fill these roles. Less students are pursuing teacher education degrees. This boils down the fact that there are too many jobs, and not enough qualified teachers for these positions. Teachers will earn a degree and become a student teacher to help them prepare for the hard work of being a teacher. Student teaching is meant to help prepare teachers, and is key in helping them be ready for the career.

If you’re a prospective teacher, there couldn’t be a better time to get. your degree and actually become a new teacher. There are plenty of jobs, and affordable and flexible degree options that make earning a teaching degree easier than ever. Becoming a teacher has so many benefits and perks that make it a sought after profession.

With a shortage of teachers around the country, pursuing a teaching career means you can enjoy job security. Because there simply aren’t enough teachers, anyone who is qualified to teach is likely to be able to get a position. This is a great benefit to those who are looking for a career that enjoys lots of stability. Even in a recession or economic downturn, there will always be a need for teachers. Students will always need to be taken care of in the classroom, so teaching will always be an important and necessary profession. Additionally, teachers sign contracts for the entire year, so they can almost always expect they will have work for the entire school year, taking a load off of their mind and helping them feel confident and stable. 

Teachers have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students. They interact with these learners every day, helping them discover new and important facts and ideas. Teachers are directly influential in a student’s life—it’s an important reason why many people choose to become teachers. They want to ignite a love of learning and see an opportunity to help students further themselves. They support their educational aspirations and help with their emotional wellbeing. Lesson plans can include important concepts about fairness, respect, and kindness. This is extremely important, and many teachers love the ability that they have to change lives and give students more than they could have expected.

Those who enjoy learning can find so much joy in sharing that passion with others. Teaching is a perfect outlet for educators who find learning inspirational and exciting, and what to share these lessons with others. Teachers are able to dedicate their entire lives to learning, and help others find that same spark. Teachers of older students who teach a certain skill or subject like English or physics often find they can focus on their passion and help students find a love for that subject as well. Teaching also involves lifelong learning—teachers are always working to find new technology, resources, and strategies to help their students. A history teacher will have to continually learn how history is influencing the current culture to make their lesson meaningful. A science teacher may find new technology or skill that helps them connect their subject to their students. Elementary school teachers need to continually find new studies to see the best way to help their students learn. Great teachers are passionate about learning, and a teaching career is ideal for those who want to share their passion with others.

Many teachers choose their profession because they love working with children. Kids are fun, interested, and full of curiosity. Teachers often find so much joy in working with children and young adults. Sometimes it can be difficult to work with children and young adults—they are passionate and not afraid to speak their mind, and they are also still learning social behavior. But for most teachers, there is a great benefit in getting to help young students see new things for the first time and think about things in a new way.

Additionally, many parents find that teaching is an ideal occupation for their needs. They are able to work during the same hours their own children are in school. They get holidays and summers off to spend time with their own children. This is one of the biggest benefits for teachers, and those who have their own children find this is a huge perk of the job. 

Education isn’t a stagnant profession. Things are always changing, evolving, and growing. Teachers can learn about new ways to connect with students, new strategies or activities. Things happen in the world around us that impact what educators teach in the classroom. Students differ every year and curriculum changes or new textbooks keep education interesting. Many teachers find that an education career path is always moving and growing, allowing them to also move and grow in the process. It’s exciting for teachers to know that their days are never the same, that the years will be different, and that new things may always be around the corner. If you’re looking for a profession that is always growing and evolving, teaching could be for you.

There are many great benefits to becoming a teacher. And WGU gives current and aspiring teachers access and options to pursue a degree in a way that works for them. Now is the time, get started on your educational journey now!