A Career as a Teacher

BY MICHAEL SUMMERS
Why Work as a Teacher?

1. Making a difference: Teachers have the opportunity to shape the lives of their students in positive
ways, helping them learn new skills and knowledge, and providing guidance and support.
2. Passion for a subject: Teachers often have a deep passion for the subject they teach and want to share
their knowledge and enthusiasm with others.
3. Variety: Teaching can be a varied and exciting profession, with new challenges and opportunities
every day.
4. Personal development: Teaching can be a great way to develop new skills, learn about different
cultures and communities, and grow as a person.
5. Flexibility: Depending on the type of teaching job, there can be a lot of flexibility in terms of working
hours and schedule.
6. Job security: Teaching is generally considered to be a stable and secure profession, with a high
demand for qualified teachers in many parts of the world.
7. Benefits: Teaching jobs often come with a range of benefits, such as health insurance, retirement
plans, and paid vacation time.
What do Teachers do?

1. Plan lessons: Teachers plan lessons and develop instructional materials to help students learn and
achieve educational goals.
2. Teach classes: Teachers deliver lessons in classrooms, using a range of teaching techniques and tools
to engage students and help them learn.
3. Assess student progress: Teachers evaluate student progress and provide feedback on academic
performance, using a variety of assessment methods such as tests, quizzes, and projects.
4. Provide support: Teachers provide academic and emotional support to students, helping them
overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
5. Manage classrooms: Teachers manage classroom environments, maintaining order and ensuring that
students are safe and focused on learning.
6. Collaborate with colleagues: Teachers work with other teachers, administrators, and support staff to
develop educational programs and improve the overall learning environment.
7. Engage with parents and guardians: Teachers communicate regularly with parents and guardians,
providing updates on student progress and addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
Required credentials to be a Teacher

1. Bachelor's degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or
university.
2. Completion of a teacher preparation program: You must complete an approved teacher
preparation program at a college or university in Michigan or another state.
3. Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC): You must pass the appropriate MTTC
exams for the subject(s) and grade level(s) you wish to teach.
4. Criminal background check: You must undergo a criminal background check and
receive clearance to work in Michigan schools.
5. Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS): You must create an account
on the MOECS system and submit your certification application through this platform.
6. Continuing education: You must participate in ongoing professional development and
continuing education throughout your career to maintain your teaching certification.
In Closing

 Being a teacher not only requires that you go through schooling, but you also
must have the drive to support your students and have good social skills.