The dominating news story so far this year has obviously been the economy.  It seems to be draining the energy right out of society.   I recently read an article in the March 2009 Reader’s Digest titled “9 Recession-Proof Careers: Despite the economic downturn, these careers are still growing”, by Cathie Gandel and Hilary Sterne.  The entire article can be viewed here:  http://www.rd.com/advice-and-know-how/9-recessionproof-careers/article119897.html .

As teachers, we can use the economy and this article as our own “stimulus” for lesson plan creation.  Use the economy to Energize the Classroom!  Talk about motivation!  Let’s build awareness with students and show them that there is opportunity in this country; when you plan ahead!  Basically, any content area can point out the relevance of what is being taught, with the career opportunities that exist.

The article divides careers/jobs into nine categories: Education, Energy, the Environment, Financial Services, Government, Health Care, International Business, Law Enforcement, and Technology.  Under each title, there are examples of careers. 

With this being said, now is the time students need our expertise more than ever.  They need content and more importantly, the knowhow to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills.  Any lesson or course that develops these two skills will make it possible for students increase their value as a resource in society.

There are enough careers listed in this article to relate them to any subject being taught. 

Even posting a career of the day/week/month in class may make a difference (see idea of the week).  

I think it is important that we encourage students to plan ahead with pertinent examples.  It is not relevant to simply say, study hard, get good grades and you will get a good job.  I pride myself in my ability to understand that my students see the world from a different perspective than me.  I always tell them I really don’t care what they do for a living….I just want them to keep learning and be prepared to adapt to challenges in order to “sustain” their standard of living!!

The article ends with an interesting perspective from Laurence Shatkin, author of “150 Best Recession-Proof Jobs” http://www.amazon.com/Best-Recession-Proof-Jobs-Laurence-Shatkin/dp/product-description/1593576234 .  He states that there are always jobs to be filled, regardless of the economy.

"Think of basic human needs, the things we can't do without," says Shatkin. They provide what he calls "little islands" of employment in this economy. For example, he says, we will always need sewage and water treatment. Challenger says the food industry is a core area: "People have to eat, and the global population is increasing."

Education is as much about decision making and planning ahead, as it is about content. To view/look for more careers and occupations, check out the website: http://online.onetcenter.org .