In this blog post, we’ll explore how new teachers—whether recent graduates or career changers—can thoughtfully choose the right subject area and grade level when entering the teaching profession. With so many possibilities, it’s important to understand what your options are, how certification works, and why flexibility can be your greatest asset in launching a successful teaching career.
Flexibility Is Key When Starting Your Teaching Career
When applying for teaching positions, it’s essential to stay flexible. You may have studied elementary education in college with dreams of becoming a third-grade teacher, but your first job could land you in fifth or even second grade. Principals will often place you where you're most needed, not necessarily where you envisioned. The same goes for middle and high school placements.
Many new teachers find themselves in positions they didn’t originally consider—and end up loving them. So, keep an open mind. The more adaptable you are, the more opportunities you’ll find.
Career Changers: Your Background Is an Asset
If you’re transitioning into education from another field—say, accounting or corporate management—you bring unique skills that can be incredibly valuable in the classroom. Middle and high schools often need subject-specific teachers, making your real-world experience in math, science, or business a huge plus.
Don’t shy away from elementary education either if you enjoy working with younger students. The possibilities are wide open, and you’re not limited by your prior career as long as you pursue the proper certification.
Certifications Matter—And They Open Doors
To teach any grade or subject, you must be certified in that area. This might mean taking additional coursework or passing specific exams, but it’s worth it. For instance, someone might get certified in biology and English, two vastly different areas, but both highly useful to school administrators looking for versatile teachers.
Having multiple certifications not only increases your employability but also allows you to explore different teaching paths over time. You’re not stuck—you can pivot based on your interests or the school’s needs.
Testing the Waters: Substituting Can Help You Decide
Not sure what subject area speaks to you? Consider substitute teaching. This can give you exposure to a variety of grade levels and disciplines. Even if a subject wasn’t your strength in high school, teaching it might spark newfound interest and understanding—as well as the realization that you’re capable of mastering and loving it.
Sometimes, the best way to discover your ideal teaching niche is by simply trying things out.
A Word of Caution: Know Your Strengths in Math and Reading
Math and reading are high-stakes subjects. Students in these areas often face rigorous standardized testing, which can determine promotion or graduation. If you’re not strong in math or reading instruction, it’s okay to explore other subjects first while building those skills over time.
For instance, if you enjoy math but aren’t experienced with skill progression across grades, becoming a high school math teacher might not be the best immediate fit. Similarly, reading instruction requires specialized knowledge in decoding, comprehension, and differentiation—skills that take time to develop.
If you're assigned to teach one of these subjects, pursue professional development or endorsements quickly to ensure you're fully prepared to support your students.
Let Your Degree (and Passion) Guide You
Often, the subject area you’re recommended for depends on your college degree. An English major will likely be nudged toward English or reading; a psychology major may be steered toward social studies, even if you end up teaching world history instead of psychology.
That said, don’t feel boxed in. If you discover a love for science, reading, or any other area, go after it. Get the certification. Gain the experience. You don’t have to remain in the subject you first entered the profession with.
There’s No One Path—Just Forward Momentum
Teaching is one of the most flexible and varied careers out there. You can start as a substitute, move into full-time teaching, then pivot into curriculum development, administration, or even launch your own education venture. The options are endless if you stay curious and committed to learning.
So whether you’re entering teaching with a plan or just exploring where you fit in, remember: your journey is unique, and the field is wide open.