An integral component of the American Dream is the advancement of our skills, and progress in our careers. Moving up into leadership roles is a natural progression in any profession. It is well that the most learned and experienced move into positions where they can offer guidance to the rest of us. This is particularly true in the field of education. Below we briefly discuss a few of the best reasons for educators to consider taking a Master's Degree in education.

- By earning your master's in educational leadership you demonstrate your commitment to professional development. As educational standards change transformative leaders will be in greater demand in the coming years as America works to remain competitive in global markets.

- By taking a master's degree management level educators can better prepare for the present and future. You'll learn to optimize a faculty's full potential and better communicate with families and students. Developing critical leadership skills is one of the few things that can have a measurable impact and make a real difference in the lives of students.

- Advanced degree programs will deepen an educator's competence in;
- Financing for schools
- Education law
- Organizational Theory
- Human resources
- Team development
- The relationship between leadership & learning
- Supervision & evaluation: practice / protocol
- Planning strategies for K-12
- Pedagogy

- Broadening one's career options can promote personal security as well as better serve the schools you'll work for by developing an ability to fill in wherever help is needed. Managing the complex needs of educational institutions means its professionals must have the ability to be flexible in their approach in order to effect the right kind of change at the right time.

- The increasing implementation of Common Core State standards will require retraining and skill advancement in all areas. School districts are going to need proficient leaders who can set the tone and manage the pace as schools transition.

- Become a more effective mentor. With greater expertise and knowledge come the ability to give more back. The more you know, the more you can offer the people who look up to you. And the more their association with you will mean to their careers.

- Financial security. It is an unfortunate fact that the least qualified teachers are the least secure in their jobs and finances. For a dedicated educator to be effective in reaching students means they must be well compensated and appreciated. The more you invest in your professional development, the more you and your skills will be appreciated.

Author's Bio: 

My name is Lizzie Weakley and I am a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. I went to college at The Ohio State University where I studied communications. I enjoy the outdoors and long walks in the park with my 3-year-old husky Snowball.