Kath Connolly, Senior Assistant Director"> Brown University, Swearer Center for Public Service
Photo: Lotus Children's Center, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Introduction
Teaching is an exciting and rewarding profession — one that many see as a lifetime commitment, not just a job. The potential impact that K-12 teaching can have on society makes it an attractive field to many seeking to make a difference. While a few students leave
college with teaching certification, most do not. What are the options for pursuing meaningful work in elementary or secondary education without formal certification?
This guide includes the following sections:
Learn More: Learn more about the teaching profession and the daily life of teachers.
Pathways: There are many ways to pursue an interest in education. Consider graduate study, work in independent and public schools, work with youth outside schools and teaching abroad.
Think Critically: Ask yourself and your future colleagues some hard questions before you begin.
Resources: Resources to support you in your search for work in education.
Consider the myriad of paths available to work in education. While this guide touches on many options, no document can replace conversation. Seek out advisors, current educators, and teachers who inspired you in the past to talk more about your goals and interests. Contact
people who have wrestled with these choices, talk with other students considering similar options, and pursue some of the leads discussed here.
