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The economy has been brought to a grinding halt over the last few months, and everyone is feeling the squeeze. But although Covid-19 has closed schools and affected every industry from travel to retail, the field of education has been pivoting to accommodate this new reality.
While some parents are homeschooling, other schools are having their teachers lead classroom time online. But what will the education landscape look like when this is over?
No one knows for sure. But the fact is that children need to learn, full stop. Regardless of how the field of education changes, there will always be rewarding careers available. Here are five to consider in a post-Covid-19 world.
Educational Policy Analyst
One of the issues that has come up during the pandemic has been equal access to education. Schools are closing, but not all students have access to reliable internet or the tools and support they need to succeed at home. It’s clear that we need to rethink education policy in the U.S. to help ensure that all students have access to a quality education.
Educational policy analysts identify weaknesses in education systems and help to identify solutions that school districts and governments can use to improve the quality and accessibility of public education. Analysts reshape the educational landscape and contribute significantly to the success and well-being of society as a whole.
Education policy is a challenging, interesting, and rewarding field for people who are passionate about education and want to make a difference. To become an Educational Policy Analyst, you will first need to earn a Master’s in Education Policy.
ESL Teacher
Diversity in the U.S. is growing and enriching our culture. But many recent immigrants and their families are not fluent in English, which creates communication and opportunity obstacles for students. ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers can help students to become proficient more quickly and keep up with their schoolwork.
To teach ESL, applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate. It is not always required to be bilingual, but it is an extremely helpful skill. Above all, ESL teachers must be patient, motivated, and creative.
Elementary Principals
Principals might strike fear into the hearts of students, but they’re actually instrumental in shaping young lives and ensuring that all students get a quality education. They oversee school operations, but also take an active role in students’ lives and educational opportunities.
Generally, principals must earn a Master’s degree in Education Administration or a related field, in addition to several years of teaching experience. A principal’s influence has a major impact on the school environment, the teachers, and all aspects of students’ learning.
Health Education Teacher
Health class is known for educating students on topics like drug use and STDs, but it’s also important for teaching children about viruses, illness, diet, and all related topics.
Public health is a huge concern at the moment, and there is a lot of misinformation circulating. People who are passionate about educating others might want to consider teaching health to ensure that the next generation has the information they need to keep themselves safe and healthy.
Like teachers in other subjects, health teachers need a bachelor’s degree in health science or education, plus a teaching certificate in their state. Health teachers need to be willing to stay up to date on current health issues, develop excellent communication skills, and stay patient!
Education Social Worker
With so many people struggling due to the pandemic, social workers have become more important than ever for tending to family dynamics, mental health, and general well-being for people in all kinds of situations. Although social workers are trained to work in many different environments, many choose to specialize in an area like healthcare or education.
Children have a wide range of different needs, some of which teachers are not fully equipped to handle. School social workers can help bridge this gap and assist children with special needs, difficult home situations, and other challenges in their lives. They might help children with learning disabilities to excel in the classroom, attend to the mental health needs of students, or help a student who is experiencing abuse or neglect at home.
Education social workers are highly trained, holding at least a Master’s degree. They must also be flexible and adaptable to help in a variety of contexts.
A Final Note
In the wake of the pandemic, it’s important to ensure that our education system doesn’t deteriorate in the face of school closures. If you want to help shape the future of the country, then choosing a career in education is a great way to get started.
Sarah Daren has been a consultant for startups in multiple industries, including health and wellness, wearable technology, nursing, and education. She implements her health knowledge into every aspect of her life, including her position as a yoga instructor and raising her two children. When she's not watching the New York Yankees play, Sarah enjoys practicing yoga and reading a good book on the beach.
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