Is it True You Can Be a Teacher in as Little as Two Years?

A great teacher can change lives by instilling a love for learning that will continue long after a student leaves a classroom. Many people desire to teach, but don’t have the resources or time to commit to several years of higher education. For those who think they’ve missed the boat on fulfilling their life-long dream to teach and make a difference in children’s lives, you might be surprised to learn that there are still plenty of viable options out there for you!

The question that’s weighing heavily on your mind is, “Can I really become a teacher in as little as two years?” The answer is, “You bet you can!”

How Can I Become an Early Childhood Educator in Just Two Years?

While the process may vary slightly depending on your own personal situation, follow these five easy steps as a guide. Soon you’ll be teaching your own class of eager learners, typically in the age range of 3 to 5.

Step One: Earn Your High School Diploma

The first step on your journey towards becoming an ECE teacher is to earn a high school diploma or equivalent if you haven’t already.

Step Two: Gain Work Experience with Children

Before you consider taking on a classroom full of young, active children, most employers require teachers to have some prior experience working with children.

If obtaining employment isn’t possible at the moment, then consider volunteer opportunities in a childcare setting to help you gain some much needed, first-hand experience. This will also give you awareness of what it’s really like to work with young children on a daily basis. Think of it as taking a test drive if you will. You are testing the waters, to make sure you really want to make a go at a lifelong career as a teacher. For prospective teachers who truly have a passion and desire for working with children, they will thoroughly enjoy and cherish these early pre-career opportunities.

Step Three: Earn a Degree in Early Childhood Education

In order to get the career results you’re truly after and be taken seriously as a professional educator, it’s crucial that you enroll in an Early Childhood Education program. Here at Athena Career Academy, we offer a comprehensive Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program majoring in Early Childhood Education.

Our flexible class schedule includes either day or evening class times, and the program is designed to be completed in two years. This allows our graduates to get started in a new career sooner than they ever dreamed possible.

Step Four: Obtain Certification

Each state has their own set of requirements and guidelines for teacher licensure, but a nationally recognized certification is required for childcare center teachers. The requirements for obtaining your certificate include having a high school diploma, completing a certain number of hours working with children, and completing additional hours of formal education.

Step Five: Maintain Your Certification

Obtaining your certification doesn’t mean that your work is done. It requires continuing education in order to renew. Preschool teachers must be first aid certified, show active teaching practices, and obtain membership in an approved organization for early childhood education professionals.

If you are eager to begin your journey towards earning your degree in Early Childhood Education, Athena Career Academy is here to help you meet your goals and achieve your dream of becoming a teacher. Contact us today for more information.