Education is often ranked as one of the most important career fields. Especially after the pandemic, education became more important and appreciated than ever. Education plays an important role in society, teaching young people and empowering the next generation. However is it the right career for you? Here are some reasons why you should consider working in education:
1. Recession Proof: Teaching and education are considered one of the few recession-proof industries, as they maintain stability during uncertain times. As the pandemic recently demonstrated, many different industries experienced instability, layoffs, and uncertainty. Teachers however continued to work and education saw fewer layoffs compared to other industries. Like other recession-proof industries such as healthcare and information technology, education is an essential part of society and will typically have more stability than other careers. The stability of education may become useful soon, as according to TIME, many economists are predicting an impending recession. Economic growth shrank for the second quarter in a row in early 2022, when it slowed down to just 0.9%, causing some economists to say we’re already in a recession. Combined with high inflation rates, currently hovering around 8 percent according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the stability of recession-proof industries like education will be highly sought after.
2. NJ is one of the best states for public education: NJ has consistently ranked top in public education rankings for the country. For example, NJ ranks high in the amount spent per pupil and student performance in the classroom and after graduation. And NJ isn’t just ranked one of the best for students, but teachers too. According to rankings from WalletHub, NJ ranks fifth in starting salary, third in quality of school system, and first in the existence of a digital learning plan, amongst other rankings. Additionally NJ also offers solid pension and health insurance plans for teachers, helping teachers even after they retire.
3. Demand is very high: According to BLS, the teaching profession will grow significantly within the next decade, with more than 1.5 million available jobs. The types of teachers most in demand will be math, science, ESL, and special education.
4. Summers off/flexible schedule: Students get many opportunities for time off, including holidays and the Summer. Teachers also get that time off and combined with a consistent daily schedule, this gives them valuable free time to spend time with family, engage in side work, or pursue advanced education and professional development.
5. Incentives for continued education: Teachers can receive stipends and credits from their districts to pursue a higher degree or professional development, increasing their value as a teacher or job candidate.
6. The ability to impact the future and influence young people: The greatest reward of being a teacher is the ability to impact the lives of children and students. According to the BLS, teaching is ranked as one of the most satisfying jobs. Getting to work with young people and change their lives for the better is very important and satisfying work, and is one of the greatest benefits of being a teacher.
Working in education can be very rewarding, offering benefits and opportunities that not many other career fields have. Explore your interests and consider becoming a teacher, as it could change your life and the lives of others!
Education Jobs NJ.com is a jobs platform that assists New Jersey schools in finding quality talent to fill their open positions as well as help educational professionals looking for a new job. You can register for a free employer account to start finding that perfect candidate today or register for job alerts to be notified of any new open positions.
