Rewarding Careers in Education

From our first steps into the classroom to our final walk at graduation, teachers are the most influential figures for many children, young adults, and adults throughout our educational journey.

Teachers have an incredible ability to bring out the best in their students no matter what the circumstance. From their enthusiasm to spark that moment of discovery to the extra push needed for breakthroughs, teaching is a rewarding profession filled with triumph and rigor for both students and educators. Undoubtedly, teachers leave a long-lasting positive impression that affects generations of students.

However, Arizona’s K-12 schools are in desperate need of more educators. According to a survey conducted by the Arizona School Personnel Administrators Association (ASPAA), Arizona has struggled with a teacher shortage for the last seven consecutive years. In fact, 27% of teacher vacancies across the state this school year still need to be filled. Furthermore, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more teachers are needed as employment for kindergarten, elementary school, and middle school teachers are expected to grow by 4% and 5% for high school teachers from 2021 to 2031. 

 

For those considering a rewarding career in education, whether early childhood, K-12, or even higher education, Maricopa Community Colleges offers an array of programs and resources that pave the way for students pursuing an Arizona teaching degree. Let’s explore your possibilities.

New to College – Learn About the Education Field of Interest

Ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of education? Make your mark as an early childhood educator, K-12 teacher, special education teacher, or instructional assistant; the possibilities are endless.  From certificates that prepare you for entry-level positions to associate’s and bachelor’s degrees, Maricopa Community Colleges is a great place to get started.  Whether you become a classroom instructor or take another career path, such as school administrator, librarian, or training consultant, explore programs that match your goals and prepare you for long-lasting success where students are the focus of your career. Learn more about the Education Field of interest.

Already Have a Bachelor’s Degree  – Check Out the Arizona Teachers Academy

Ready to take your skills and experience to the classroom but need an Arizona teaching certificate? If you have already earned a bachelor’s degree, the Arizona Teachers Academy at Maricopa Community Colleges is the best choice to jumpstart your teaching career.  The program provides stellar resources and financial support, including scholarships, for those who already have bachelor's degrees and are ready to pursue their passion for teaching. 

The Arizona Teacher Academy Scholarship is a unique opportunity for aspiring teachers. As a recipient of the scholarship, you receive financial assistance for your studies. However, you must also give back to your community by teaching in an Arizona public or charter school each year the scholarship is awarded. 

The Maricopa Community Colleges currently offers two programs if you’re looking to take part in the Arizona Teachers Academy:

 

• The Scottsdale Teacher Education Partnership (STEP) Program at Scottsdale Community College is the only one-year Post Baccalaureate Teacher Certification in the Valley. It’s designed for students with bachelor’s degrees in any discipline looking to become certified kindergarten through eighth-grade teachers.
  
   
• The Post Baccalaureate Program at Rio Salado offers 48 start dates to choose from every year, and it’s never been easier to get into the classroom. This program typically takes two years to complete and offers certifications in the following teaching areas:
  • Early Childhood (birth to third grade)
  • Elementary Education (kindergarten-eighth grade)
  • Secondary Education (sixth-12th grade)
  • Special Education (kindergarten-12th grade)

Current High School Teachers – Dual Enrollment Teaching Positions

For current high school teachers, now is the time to open the world of possibilities for your students by becoming qualified as a Dual Enrollment teacher. As a Dual Enrollment teacher, you can take graduate courses that can be seamlessly applied to a future Master of Arts in Education. Since there is high demand for Dual Enrollment teachers in Arizona, you’ll impact high schoolers as they embark on their college education. 

Furthermore, the Arizona Teachers Academy offers a special tuition scholarship to help pay for graduate-level courses at Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona. Best of all, you’ll be paving your way toward an exciting master’s degree while supporting high school students along their educational journey.

 

Now is the time to launch your teaching career in Arizona. With multiple pathways to earn a teaching degree, Maricopa Community Colleges offers a variety of opportunities for you to enter the education field and teach the next generation of Arizona students. So, take the next step today!