Getting a Job as a Military Teacher

Teaching within the military setting is something I'm exploring. Are there specific certification requirements or pathways to become a teacher on a military base? Is there a particular subject that’s in higher demand?

Teachers on military bases are typically employed through the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA). DoDEA operates schools in military installations both domestically and abroad, serving the children of military personnel. For an educator to work in a DoDEA school, they need a bachelor's degree at minimum and a teaching certification/license. The certification usually needs to be from one of the 50 U.S. states or the District of Columbia.

It's not enough to simply be certified, however. DoDEA also requires at least two years of full-time teaching experience. If you're a fresh graduate or someone trying to transition into teaching, it might be best to work in a public or private school first to gain the necessary experience.

Regarding subject matter in higher demand, it can vary by location or the particular needs of a base at any given time. However, just like in many public school districts across the U.S., areas such as Special Education, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and Foreign Languages commonly have higher demand. It's always a good idea to periodically check the DoDEA job postings as they will reflect the current needs of their schools.

Finally, keep in mind that being a military teacher means you'll likely be teaching students who frequently move because of their parents' assignments. You'll need to be prepared to handle the unique challenges this can bring, such as adjusting your teaching to constantly changing student populations and addressing the special emotional needs of students whose parents might be deployed.