Six Strategies to Inspire the Next Generation of Teachers

Few schools across the nation have all the teachers they need and can be confident that they will have a wealth of quality candidates for future openings. Too few of today’s young people are choosing teaching as a career to fill current and future needs, which means that we need to do all that we can to make teaching and other education roles attractive and rewarding. Despite their importance, these steps will fall short if young people are not exposed to and supported to choose teaching as a career.  

Research points to the reality that tomorrow’s teachers are sitting in our classrooms today. Most teachers in most schools grew up near where they began their teaching careers. It follows that if we can interest and support students with high potential and an inclination toward teaching to explore what it means to teach, we are more likely to have the quality, number, and variety of teaching candidates we need and seek. However, we must do more than occasionally encourage students to think about teaching. An intentional, comprehensive, and varied approach is required—that's where Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs can be so immensely valuable. Here are six strategies to consider and build on.  

Offer a paraeducator certification program.  

A structured program that leads to paraeducator/paraprofessional certification can give students a strong foundation in various aspects of learning and working with learners. Mini courses on topics such as child development, effective classroom practices, and the science of learning can provide a solid foundation for students to serve as paraeducators while also helping them see themselves as future teachers. Observing and assisting in classrooms can also give students an intimate experience of teaching as both a role and a career. Experience as paraeducators also positions students to observe teaching from a perspective other than as a student. Further, a structured program can expose students to the thinking and decision-making processes of professional teachers.  

Provide paid internships and apprenticeships.  

Roles such as classroom aides, summer teaching assistants, and after-school tutors can offer authentic opportunities for students to “try on” teaching roles. Having the experiences paid for also adds value and responsibility to them. Internships and apprenticeships can also expose students to a wide range of challenges and experiences that reflect what it means to be a teacher.   

Create opportunities for students to engage in micro- and peer-teaching.  

Some less-intensive options for students to experience what it means to teach can be attractive to students who are curious about teaching and want to try it out but either do not have time for or are not yet ready for more intensive experiences. Micro- and peer-teaching also entail lower investment and risk for students who are curious but unsure of their interests.   

Offer dual credit courses to give students a college head start.  

Courses that offer high school and college credit can be a great option for students who are certain that teaching is in their future. Not only are students exposed to more advanced content and skills, but credits earned prior to college enrollment can reduce tuition costs and build momentum for students’ preparation for a career in teaching.  

Offer mentorships with strong, supportive, and inspiring teachers.  

Having opportunities to engage with and learn from someone who is passionate about and an expert in their work can help students gain a positive, realistic view of what it means to teach. Mentors can also advise students on areas of experience and learning that will help them to be better prepared for teaching as a profession.  

Sponsor a future teacher club.  

Clubs for students interested in teaching were once common in schools. However, their popularity has waned over the past few decades. Nevertheless, an organization designed around student interests, with opportunities for student leadership and experiences that students find appealing, can support students considering a career in teaching. Students might engage in activities such as lesson design, visiting and observing classes, hosting teacher panels, and conducting interviews. Participation in a future teacher club can also give students a sense of identity and stimulate pride in their career interest.  

The truth is that tomorrow’s teachers are sitting in today’s classrooms waiting to be noticed, nurtured, and prepared. When they have meaningful opportunities to experience teaching, learn from skilled mentors, and see the impact they can have on others, something magical happens: Teaching shifts from something they observe to a future they can imagine.