Teaching Still An Attractive Job Despite Local Budget Cut-Backs

Education has long been a career path for many college graduates in the Valley for many reasons. Solid pay with regular raises, benefits, and weekends, summers - or extended periods of time off compared to most other jobs.

Despite state and local budget cut-backs that have limited the number of teachers districts can hire, education is still an ever growing field because of population growth. Once state and federal budgets get back to a more 'normal' level - you should see education benefit from tax dollars.

Math & Science teachers are almost always in demand, partly because students with those degrees typically go into even higher paying fields such as Medicine or Engineering. If you have a desire to get into teaching, these are the subjects that are often needed the most - and aren't 'cut' like PE and Music jobs tend to be let go in tough economic times or low enrollment.

If working with kids every single day doesn't appeal to you - there is always substitute teaching. Anyone with a College Degree can take the CBEST Test and work as a substitute teacher with a district of your choice. Depending on the district/school - some pay over $100+ per day for being a substitute. Having strong communication skills and being able to relate to young people are a must, however if you can handle that responsibility - you can make a 'full time' wage by substitute teaching a few times a week.

If you have a college degree (sometimes an AA degree can work) you should really consider taking the CBEST Test, and applying to districts in your area. Places like Stockton actually has 3 major districts in the city limits - Stockton Unified, Lincoln Unified and Lodi Unified school districts can all be sources of employment. Smaller towns like Ceres and Newman still have demand for teachers because there are less qualified teachers in the area (simply because the population is lower).

If you want to make teaching your career, you should consult your local university counselor about finding a Teaching Credential program. There are many in the area, including University of the Pacific in Stockton and Stanislaus State University in Turlock. Achieving your teaching credential can sometimes be done while you have a full-time position (and often they pay for your classes if needed). I have several friends that got a $40,000+ paying jobs with benefits, while they went to school at night to obtain their teaching credentials.

Despite budget cutbacks, you should find teaching jobs in Stockton, as well as jobs in Modesto. The smaller communities will have plenty of openings as well, most come available as the school year ends in the spring and summer months.