With a large percentage of the U.S. population holding minority status, bilingual and ESL teachers are in high demand. Many young minority children may enter school with very few English skills because their immigrant parents don’t speak good English. Bilingual Spanish and English speakers top the list of needed bilingual qualifications, but additional population groups also need teachers who speak their language.
Teachers who have skills to work with students on either end of the academic bell curve are also in high demand. Gifted and talented teachers work with advanced students to provide course work that won’t leave these students bored or unchallenged. Special education teachers work with students who have special needs such as learning disabilities, physical challenges and behavioral issues. Many classes include students of all abilities, but some special education and gifted students need special classes that deal with their particular needs.
The U.S. falls behind many nations in math and science scores. To compete in a global economy and a high technology world, the U.S. needs to increase scores in these subject areas by providing highly trained teachers and various classes students can take. Most high schools offer several levels of algebra classes, geometry, calculus, statistics, analysis and remedial math classes. Science classes include physical science, biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, earth science and technical science classes. The shortage of math and science classes isn’t new and some states offer special seminars, tuition assistance and mentoring programs for education students willing to major in these areas.
There is no doubt about whether students need computer skills. Some schools require students to take computer classes and most incorporate computers in classes from elementary to high school. Students need to develop strong computer skills to compete in today’s market place where even the cash registers are computers. Teachers willing to stay on top of new computer skills will continue to be in high demand.
Along with bilingual and ESL students, schools need teachers competent to teach foreign languages. English-speaking students need to become bilingual in a world economy, even if most of the world speaks English to some degree. Students who learn a foreign language make employees that are more valuable. Foreign language teachers may serve as bilingual and ESL teachers in some school districts.