Teaching jobs in Texas are a large part of economic growth in the state in recent years. Jobs in education, along with business services and health services, have seen greater rates of growth than other industries, according to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. In addition, teaching jobs typically have a salary at or above the state median. Now is an excellent time for job applicants who are interested in teaching in Texas or advancing in their career as an educator.
Growth in teaching jobs
As of 2014, Texas has experienced greater overall job growth than any other state in the U.S. for five consecutive years, according to data published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The number of jobs is growing among many industries, and teaching jobs in Texas continue to increase at a steady rate. Many educators are finding ample opportunities to pursue a teaching career through first-time teaching jobs. Others are gaining graduate-level degrees such as a Master of Education in Teacher Leadership as they seek lead-teacher jobs.
Growth in specializations
Certain types of teaching jobs in Texas are seeing faster growth than other types. Elementary, middle school, and high school teachers are all in high demand throughout the state. The basic education requirement for these teaching positions is a bachelor’s degree. Several teaching specializations, including teaching English as a second language, special education, autism and gifted and talented, have even greater rates of job growth.
Some school districts may require candidates for these types of jobs to have a master’s degree in teacher leadership with a focus in the specialization. All candidates can benefit greatly from the experience and coursework of a master’s degree in education, even if the school district does not require it. A Master of Education in Teacher Leadership includes classes that help educators better manage the classroom, motivate students, design curriculum, assess learning, and use research-based teaching methods and strategies.
Quality education is a priority year-in and year-out for an economy to be sustainable. Pursuing a teaching job in Texas right now is a prudent choice in the current economic climate. A career in education has the potential for long-term stability and opportunity for advancement to jobs in specialized areas or in administration.
Learn more about Lamar University’s M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership online.
Sources:
http://www.chron.com/jobs/article/The-fastest-growing-jobs-in-Texas-5687026.php
http://comptroller.texas.gov/specialrpt/workforce/96-1756.pdf
http://gov.texas.gov/files/ecodev/texas-economic-overview.pdf
