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9 reasons to apply to a teaching program yesterday

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a teacher in North Carolina, now is the time to make your move.

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Teaching is a challenging, rewarding career that takes skill, creativity and plenty of practice. It’s also a profession that offers support at every step of the journey, so there’s no reason to wait to start an educator prep program.

Here’s why now is the time to apply.

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1. Deadlines are closing ⏰

its time

To make sure you submit a solid application, you need some lead time to pull your application materials together, and deadlines are right around the corner

Don’t worry though—it’s not too late to get started, and we’ll help you through it. Your career awaits!

2. Applying isn’t as hard as you think

applying isn't hard

You’ll likely need to gather transcripts and test scores, get recommendation letters and polish up your resume. And yes, there is probably an essay. Lucky for you, we’ve got the tools to help you get through the process.

Interactive application checklists keep you on track and expert advisers answer your questions. You won’t get that kind of support for your Harvard Law app!

3. There’s help for passing those pesky tests

harry potter

It’s inevitable—to show you’re qualified to teach your subject, you’ll have to pass one or more  tests, either while you apply or during your program. But don’t run screaming from the building.

You can take advantage of our testing guide to boost your confidence along with your score. You got this!

4. You can find help covering the costs of your education

student loans

If you’re concerned about costs, there’s good news: You have scholarship opportunities and financial aid options for your teacher training. Future North Carolina teachers can also get reimbursed for program application and testing fees.

If you end up taking loans, Uncle Sam offers several programs that pay back loans and even cancel debt for teachers. (Yes, we said cancel.)  

5. There’s a JOB waiting for YOU

job

Right now, teachers are in high demand.

The demand for teachers in North Carolina continues to climb across the state in both urban and high-need rural communities. If your area of licensure is in STEM or Special Education, you’re in even more demand across the state

The faster you get started on your program the faster you’ll find that j.o.b.

6. Compensation packages are better than you’ve heard

compensation

If you’ve been worried about making ends meet as a teacher, here’s some good news. The North Carolina state legislature recently approved teacher pay raises between 3.5 and 6.5 percent. Of course, you’ll also get a comprehensive benefits package, too. Depending on where you decide to teach, you may be able to take advantage of the e Good Neighbor Next Door program to purchase a home!

7. There’s a program for your unique background ✨

everybody's different

Already have a bachelor’s degree? Still in high school? Thinking about switching careers? There’s an educator prep program for you. Check out undergraduate options, master’s degrees and part-time and offline and online programs for professionals in every stage of the process.

Need some guidance? Talk to a certification pathways coach—it’s free!

8. You really, really want to teach

michelle obama

Teaching isn’t for the faint of heart—but you already knew that. You’re in this world-changing work that allows you to use your passions and interests every day, for the opportunity to build your career (and maybe even to earn some Michelle-level love). This is work that robots will never be able to replace. Now that’s job security!

9. There’s every reason to start now

hamilton

You’ve got the passion and the drive, and we’ve got the tools to help you succeed. So now is the time to find your program and apply. Do not throw away your shot!

Ready to apply to an educator preparation program?