High School FACS Teaching Jobs in Illinois?

I'm thinking about pursuing a career as a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher in Illinois after college. Does anyone know what the job market looks like for high school FACS teaching positions in the area?

Career prospects in the teaching field typically depend on a couple of key factors: the subject matter taught and the regional demand. Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) is a highly valued field across schools, as it introduces students to vital life skills.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is an overall expected 4% growth in high school teaching jobs from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. However, this number is expected to look a bit different in each state and for each subject.

Research shows that Illinois has been experiencing a significant teacher shortage in recent years, including in the FACS subject area. The shortage is particularly severe in rural communities, but not limited to these areas. This shortage in teachers has led to some opportunities for new educators.

There are more than 850 school districts in Illinois, many of which offer FACS programs. While competition may be strong in more urban, populated areas like Chicago, opportunities in smaller, rural districts may be more numerous.

Keep in mind that getting involved in extracurricular duties such as advising student clubs, coaching sports teams, or organizing school programs can also make a candidate more marketable for these positions.

Just as a note, licensure is required to teach public school in Illinois, which means you'll need to complete a bachelor's degree and a teacher preparation program. Additional exams are typically required as well.

In summary, while it's difficult to predict the exact outlook of the job market for FACS teachers in Illinois, the current indicators suggest there should be opportunities, especially in underserved regions. It's important to keep up-to-date with educational trends in the state, be prepared for variations in the market, and take advantage of any opportunities to gain experience and exposure while in college.