Good News for Aspiring Teachers

A recent teacher shortage has prompted the federal government to offer incentives for students who choose to pursue a career in education. The federal loan forgiveness program, which rewards teachers for their service, is available to those who earn online teacher certification.
Loan cancellation and deferment options may be available to teachers depending on their geographical location and what subjects they teach. For some types of loans, teachers may have more time to repay the loan without interest, or may be able to have all, or a portion, of the loan forgiven.

Loan Programs Reward Online Education Graduates

Online education can help you secure your teacher certification, and depending on where you choose to work, the federal government may help pay for your education. Before enrolling in an online teacher certification program, complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online.
Your financial aid award can include Perkins and/or Stafford loans (either through the Federal Family Education Loan [FFEL] or William D. Ford Direct Loan programs):

• With the FFEL or Direct Loan program, teachers can qualify for up to $5,000 in loan forgiveness if they teach in a designated low-income school. Teaching certain high-need subjects, such as mathematics, science, and special education, can qualify teachers for up to $17,500 in loans.
• Perkins Loan forgiveness up to 100% may also be available with similar terms. The state determines which fields of study have a shortage of teachers--subjects may include mathematics, science, foreign languages, or bilingual education.

Students interested in teacher certification should fully research these federal aid loan programs before committing to an online education program. Taking advantage of federal loan forgiveness is just one reward for those who choose an inspiring, fulfilling career in education.
Source:
Federal Student Aid

Amelia Gray is a teacher and freelance writer in San Marcos, TX. Amelia earned a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from Arizona State University.