Connecticut's Teacher Shortage Offers Opportunities Amid Projected Job Growth
Connecticut is facing a significant teacher shortage, with 1,300 vacancies reported in May 2023, particularly in STEM, foreign language, and special education subjects. The state projects a 7.3% growth in teacher jobs by 2030, contrasting with the national projection of a 2% decline. Bestcolleges.com, to ensure accurate content, engages an Integrity Network of employed education professionals who review and suggest improvements to their content.
To become a teacher in Connecticut, one must earn a bachelor's degree, gain student teaching experience, pass required certification tests, and apply for certification. An online bachelor's in education is a suitable starting point. The state also offers alternate paths to certification based on full-time professional teaching experience, in addition to a relevant bachelor's degree. The Integrity Network members, who work full-time in their professions, review content for Bestcolleges.com as a side project. They suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information, provide specific feedback, and identify critical information missed by writers. These professionals are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network, but their identities are not publicly disclosed.
Connecticut's teacher shortage, coupled with its projected job growth, presents opportunities for aspiring educators. The state's flexible certification paths and the rigorous content review by the Integrity Network ensure that teachers are well-prepared and that educational resources remain accurate and up-to-date.
