Become a Teacher in Illinois

Become a Teacher in Illinois

From 2008 to 2009, when many industry sectors were losing jobs, education was one of just two industries to show job growth in Illinois. Not only that: job projections for the next ten years show even more cause for optimism.* All this suggests that it's a great time to become a teacher in Illinois.

Besides providing future generations with a strong educational foundation, Illinois teachers also enjoy the 8th highest teacher salaries in the nation. The National Education Association reports that average Illinois teacher salaries amount to $62,077 per year. Add to that benefits such as health and dental insurance, pension plans, and teachers' summers off, and a teaching career in Illinois sounds very tempting indeed.

Future Illinois Teachers
If you want to become a teacher in Illinois, all you have to do is see the statistics to know that education is a growth industry. The Illinois Department of Employment Security projects a 16 percent growth rate for teachers, with average annual job openings totaling 8,830.*

But to take advantage of those job openings, you'll need to apply for Illinois teacher certification. To become a certified teacher, you'll complete a state-approved teacher-preparation program and meet the other coursework and testing requirements for the state of Illinois. Teachers generally need at least a bachelor's degree to get a classroom of their own.**

Current Illinois Teachers and School Administrators
Illinois has a three-tiered certification system. After four years of teaching experience, educators with Illinois teacher certification at the Initial level can complete additional professional development and move up the ranks to apply for a Standard or Master teaching certificate.

Not only can additional teacher certification boost your salary, but the professional development you acquire through mentoring or additional college coursework will benefit you...and your students.** To learn about the requirements to become a school administrator, contact the Illinois State Board of Education.

Illinois Teachers in Demand
Thanks to the recently established federal Education Jobs Fund, Illinois will receive over $400 million for the 2010-2011 school year to help save or create jobs in early childhood, elementary and secondary education.*** Prospective and current teachers alike should keep an eye out for all those new job openings. But even if you don't have a degree in education, you can still become a teacher in Illinois as long as you hold a bachelor's degree and have begun an appropriate Alternative Certification Program.**

Teacher World is here to help you become a teacher in Illinois. Start today by researching the accredited teacher training programs below.

Sources:
* Illinois Department of Employment Security
** Illinois State Board of Education
***U.S. Department of Education

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