17. You Should Teach!

After thirty-seven years of teaching everything from chaotic statistic projects to skill and drill algebra, I whole-heartedly recommend the profession to anyone who asks. It is a noble career, offering a lifelong opportunity to master and polish your craft. This path ensures that you will always be a lifelong learner, as you ultimately learn just as much from your students as they do from you.

Unfortunately, not everyone agrees with me. A study by the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago found that only 18% of Americans would encourage a young person to pursue teaching at the K-12 level. Data from the Pew Research Center further shows that among current educators, fewer than half would recommend the profession.

This is troubling news, but it is not the whole story. I believe this research suggests that we need to look at the profession of teaching a little differently – not just as a job, but as a canvas for your passions – passions you are excited to share with the next generation.

Teaching can be an extraordinary career if you enter it with a solid plan. This profession offers a unique path that you can parlay into anything and everything that interests you. For instance, if you love sports, you can teach physical education, coach, or advise the spirit club. If you love journalism, you can sponsor the school newspaper or design a course in investigative journalism. The opportunities are endless and exciting. Bringing your own passion to the classroom will spark your students’ desire to learn and then the fun – and the hard work of late-night grading, endless lesson tweaks, and student breakthroughs – begins.

To be clear, I am not suggesting you enter the classroom solely to pursue personal interests. Rather, if you are already considering this path, the foundational desire to educate is likely already present. What is truly exciting is your ability to tailor the role to match your unique passions. Trust me, you will need this positive energy because teaching is demanding. But do not let the challenges scare you away. This profession is a profound calling, worthy of your deepest dedication. There is no greater reward—and no higher purpose—than watching your students learn, grow, and transform into the absolute best versions of themselves. Step into the classroom and shape the future. You will not regret this decision. Thanks for reading! kim