Last updated on Aug 7, 2024

You're unsure about your career path in education. What strategies can help you make informed decisions?

Navigating a career in education can be as complex and varied as the subjects taught within school walls. If you're feeling uncertain about your future within this noble profession, rest assured that such doubts are common and there are strategic ways to approach them. While the path may seem foggy, a combination of self-reflection, research, and proactive networking can illuminate the way forward. The key is to remember that your career is a journey, not a destination, and each step you take is an opportunity to learn more about your passions, skills, and the educational landscape.

1 Reflect Deeply

Before diving into the vast sea of career options in education, take a moment to reflect on your own interests and motivations. Ask yourself what drew you to education in the first place. Was it a love for a specific subject, the joy of working with young minds, or the desire to make a societal impact? Understanding your core motivations will serve as a compass, guiding your decisions and helping you find a niche in education that resonates with your personal values and strengths.

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Latesia Coleman, Ed.D.

STEM Curriculum Strategist | Ed Researcher | Education Consultant | Testing Coordinator
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After reflecting on your interests, I would suggest that you consider where you would like to be financially in 5 years, or in 10 years. It would enable you to make an informed decision that will lead you to increased stability and you will look back on it with no regrets.

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Sherri McLeroy, M. Ed.

Educational Leader-Growth Coach, Inspirational speaker, and Professional development trainer
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I believe it is incredibly beneficial to have a leadership growth coach to help you explore your options. Great questions and guidance from a trained coach can assist you with determining the direction you want to go, explore possibilities, identify obstacles and close growth gaps. A good coach can also assist you with visualizing your goals. Once you have your vision for the future you can create a timeline of steps you can take to achieve your goal.

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2 Research Roles

The field of education is brimming with diverse roles beyond the traditional classroom teacher. From educational policy makers and curriculum developers to school counselors and technology integration specialists, your options are numerous. Research these roles to understand what they entail, the skills required, and how they align with your interests. This knowledge will not only broaden your perspective but also help you pinpoint where you might fit best within the educational ecosystem.

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Amy Jefferson, M. Ed. (she/her/hers)

Educational Technology Leader & Client Success Strategist ~ Driving Innovation through Technology Integration, Customer-Centered Service, and Data-Driven Solutions
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One thing that I’ve heard from other educators is how difficult it is to determine what career options are out there. We are often encouraged to go the traditional route of teacher, assistant principal, principal, etc. I always say to start reflecting about the long term goals and impact one wants to make in their career. Then, begin researching roles and options that fit as closely as possible. This ensures that the decisions on next steps in career are well-thought out and action-oriented.

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Sherri McLeroy, M. Ed.

Educational Leader-Growth Coach, Inspirational speaker, and Professional development trainer
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One thing I have found to be helpful is to have learning lunches with people in roles I might want to explore. I invite them to lunch and bring some good questions. These people then become my network of colleagues who will help me with future endeavors.

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3 Gain Experience

One of the most effective ways to clarify your career goals is to gain hands-on experience. Whether it's through volunteering, internships, or part-time positions, immersing yourself in different educational environments can provide invaluable insights. You'll discover what you enjoy and excel at, as well as what challenges you might prefer to avoid. This real-world exposure is crucial for making informed decisions about your career path.

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Sherri McLeroy, M. Ed.

Educational Leader-Growth Coach, Inspirational speaker, and Professional development trainer
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One strategy I have found to be effective is to shadow other people for a day and learn from them. Additionally, I believe that volunteering is the best way to gain experience.

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4 Network Actively

Networking is a powerful tool in any career, but in education, it's particularly valuable. Engage with professionals in your field of interest through events, professional associations, and social media platforms dedicated to educators. These connections can offer mentorship, advice, and even open doors to opportunities that might not be publicly advertised. Remember, it's often who you know as much as what you know that can shape your career trajectory.

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Sherri McLeroy, M. Ed.

Educational Leader-Growth Coach, Inspirational speaker, and Professional development trainer
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One of my favorite ways to network in the field of education is by attending educational conferences and events. It is also helpful to tour different schools and learn from them. Develop a set of 3-5 questions and have them ready when you meet other educators. Show humility and a hunger to learn from others.

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5 Consider Furthering

Sometimes, progressing in your education career may require additional qualifications or certifications. Consider whether furthering your education would open up new avenues for growth. This might mean pursuing a master's degree, a doctorate, or specialized training in areas like administration or special education. Such commitments can be substantial, but they may also be necessary stepping stones to reach your desired role.

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Sherri McLeroy, M. Ed.

Educational Leader-Growth Coach, Inspirational speaker, and Professional development trainer
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Stay hungry for learning and growth. Be eager to gain new skills. Pay attention to your passions and areas of strength. These areas may be worthy of developing further.

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6 Stay Adaptable

Lastly, the world of education is ever-evolving, with new teaching methods, technologies, and policies constantly emerging. Staying adaptable and open to change is crucial. Embrace professional development opportunities and be willing to pivot when necessary. Your ability to adapt will not only make you a more effective educator but also ensure that your career remains dynamic and fulfilling.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You're unsure about your career path in education. What strategies can help you make informed decisions?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect Deeply

2 Research Roles

3 Gain Experience

4 Network Actively

5 Consider Furthering

6 Stay Adaptable

7 Here’s what else to consider

K-12 Education

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You're unsure about your career path in education. What strategies can help you make informed decisions?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect Deeply

2 Research Roles

3 Gain Experience

4 Network Actively

5 Consider Furthering

6 Stay Adaptable

7 Here’s what else to consider

K-12 Education

Rate this article

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