According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more education leads to higher earnings and lower unemployment rates. But obtaining a degree takes years of commitment and can leave you with thousands in student debt.

Fortunately, there are many ways to work in the field of education. Some educators choose to specialize early in their careers, while others want to shape educational initiatives outside the classroom.

Teacher

Teachers have one of the highest stakes in their students' lives. They're not only in charge of teaching them but also guiding them through the different stages of life. They help them develop the right mindset and build strong foundations that will carry them into their future careers.

They introduce them to a trove of information and help them expand their interests and ideas. In addition to that, they're also a great source of encouragement for their students. Besides the fact that they inspire kids to dream big and pursue their passions, they also equip them with practical skills that will help them find jobs in a rapidly changing economy.

Not only that, but teachers are also good mediators when their students and school boards disagree on various issues. Their position allows them to relay important information in a timely manner and act as the voice of their students. Because of this, they're highly looked up by their students and the people around them.

School Counselor

School counselors contribute greatly to the well-being and success of students. This career requires compassion, patience and interpersonal, listening and speaking skills. You can find degree programs designed to help you become a school counselor and develop these skills.

As a school counselor, you are tasked with ensuring all students receive the support and resources they need to be successful in academics and life. You may also help them with social challenges such as bullying and family issues. You will educate students on ways to cope with these situations and may refer them to a psychologist or social worker for further assistance.

In addition, you will provide individual student planning and assist students with their career goals. You will also help parents and guardians understand the services provided by other members of staff such as teachers, social workers, resource teachers and nurses. You will also conduct research and evaluate school programs. You may be tasked with creating, implementing and monitoring comprehensive school counseling programs.

Principal

The school principal is an important and challenging position for those who want to make a difference in students’ lives. They are the leader of their school and are responsible for setting academic goals, evaluating teachers and overseeing budgets. Principals also ensure that their school meets state and district policies.

Often, school principals work in public schools and spend time attending school functions and community events related to the school. However, they may also work in private school settings.

To become a school principal, most people earn a bachelor’s degree in education. Many then spend a few years as classroom teachers to gain experience. They can then move into administrative roles, such as a teacher or assistant principal, and eventually become the school’s principal. Other educators, such as school counselors or specialists in educational administration, can also qualify to be a school principal. Some even earn a master’s degree to prepare for their desired leadership role.

School Nurse

You've seen it in movies, you may have even done it yourself -- walk down to the school nurse and say you're sick. The school nurse's office is a critical part of student well-being and success.

For students with physical or emotional challenges, school nurses work to implement care plans and provide accommodations that meet individual needs. They also help teachers and staff with health concerns and illnesses.

They advocate for healthy environments, promoting everything from self-carry rules for rescue inhalers to bus idling policies that mitigate air pollution. They also educate students and staff on topics ranging from proper hygiene to nutrition education.

Studies demonstrate that a dedicated, on-site school nurse increases attendance and instructional time, promotes safety, decreases emergency and crisis response times, supports mental health, and provides countless other benefits to students and the community. However, cuts in school budgets and confusion over Medicaid reimbursement have impacted the number of nurses working at schools.