What Employers Want:
Few people are aware of the qualities it requires to be a teacher despite their varied experiences with teachers over the years. Primarily, teachers’ first interest should be in helping their students, and they should also have the ability to inspire respect, trust, and confidence. “Strong speaking and writing skills, inquiring and analytical minds, and a desire to pursue and disseminate knowledge are vital prerequisites for teachers.”18 In addition, teachers must be able to recognize and respond to individual and cultural differences in students and employ appropriate teaching methods in response.

Employers look for teachers that have completed a bachelor’s degree from a teacher education program and have then obtained a license. However, many states now offer alternative routes towards licensure for those who have obtained a bachelor’s degree in a field other than teaching.