Grow Your Teaching Career in Pennsylvania with 3 Strategies
| by Alex Skov
Maximizing your salary and advancing your career are two ways that educators have traditionally found long-term success and career happiness. For teachers who want to grow their careers in Pennsylvania, this blog explores practical strategies to help you thrive both financially and professionally. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for your next big career move, continue reading to explore three actionable steps you can take to increase your earning potential and career opportunities in The Keystone State:
1. Pursue Full Educator Certification in Pennsylvania
Many teachers in Pennsylvania begin their careers with an Intern Certification, allowing them to start teaching quickly in full-time positions. This is a great pathway for career changers who are transitioning into teaching from another profession because it gives you an opportunity to get hands-on experience in the classroom as long as you already have a bachelor’s degree — even if that degree isn’t in education.
However, an Intern Certification is generally considered to be a provisional license and not a permanent license, so individuals who have their sights set on a career in education often choose to earn full certification with an Instructional I Certificate. This certificate provides teachers with more professional opportunities, higher salaries, greater job stability, and increased earning potential over the course of their career.
Moreland’s 100% online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program empowers educators to earn their full teacher certification in as little as 9 months. The program is specifically designed to help adults succeed while working full-time and balancing life’s responsibilities.
2. Explore Additional Revenue Streams
Expanding your income doesn’t always mean leaving the classroom. Taking on extra responsibilities within your school or district — such as coaching, leading extracurricular activities, or mentoring newer teachers — can provide stipends that enhance your earnings.
Another year-round opportunity to boost your income is through Moreland’s Referral Program. By encouraging others to make their teaching dreams a reality and advance their education careers, you can earn rewards like $200 Visa gift cards for every enrollment made using your unique referral link. Plus, encouraging aspiring teachers to enroll at Moreland is easier than ever when you use the referral program success toolkit, filled with useful resources like editable email and text message templates, social media advice, and ideas for where and how to effectively use your referral link.
3. Earn an Advanced Degree
A master’s degree is usually one of the most effective and quickest ways to increase your salary and open the door to more career opportunities. According to the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, a Step 10 teacher in Philadelphia with a master’s degree earns $87,682, about 10.5% more than a teacher at the same level who only has a bachelor’s degree.
Many educators choose to pursue a master’s degree with a specific focus in their subject area. Moreland offers three fully online master’s programs, including a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) that can be customized with six high-demand specializations, including:
- Early Childhood Education
- Special Education
- Teaching Multilingual Learners
- Globalization in Education
- Educational Technology
- Educational Research
Teachers who are considering a move into administrative roles also choose Moreland’s Master’s in Educational Leadership, which is designed to help educators develop the skills needed to successfully take on roles like curriculum coordinator, department head, or principal.
Each program is flexible and can be completed in as little as 12 months, allowing you to increase your salary while broadening your expertise.
Moreland University Supports Pennsylvania Teachers
These three strategies can help you increase your salary, expand your career opportunities, and achieve your professional goals on your own timeline. Whether you’re earning your teaching certification or advancing with an M.Ed., Moreland supports educators with flexible, innovative programs designed to fit your schedule and career aspirations.
If you’re ready to unlock new opportunities and maximize your earning potential, complete your free application today and take your next step toward a thriving teaching career in Pennsylvania.
