Navigating Professional Certification: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring High School Teachers
Are you considering a career as a high school teacher? The path to becoming a certified educator involves several key steps and decisions. This guide provides a detailed roadmap of the necessary actions, along with insights on state-specific requirements and alternative routes that can lead to a fulfilling teaching career.
The Certification Process
Each state has its own unique requirements for teacher certification. However, most states generally follow a similar process that involves:
1. Completing an Undergraduate Degree
To begin, you will need to earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. In most states, a minimum of a bachelor's degree is required, usually with a major in the subject you wish to teach. Some states have relaxed the requirement for degrees in education, focusing more on professional experience.
2. Enrolling in a Teacher Education Program
After earning your bachelor's degree, you will need to complete a teacher education program. This typically involves about 30 credits, with about half of these credits being field experiences in schools. Be sure to consult with your college advisor to ensure that your plan of study includes all the necessary courses for teacher certification in the state where you plan to teach.
Not all states have the same requirements. For instance, in my state, a B.A. with a major in the subject you want to teach, along with a teacher education program of about 30 credits, is required. Additionally, you will need to complete a semester of student teaching.
3. Ensuring State-Specific Requirements
Each state has its own set of requirements. For example, you may need an additional course that is required in your state but not necessarily in your college's program. To ensure you meet all the requirements, search for 'Teacher Certification in [Name of State]' on Google for detailed, specific information.
Take, for example, the state of Wisconsin, where under Republican leadership, there was a move to dispense with the BA requirement due to the dramatic drop in new ed degrees. However, this was largely due to state legislation that cut salaries, take-home pay, and benefits for teachers.
4. Completing Student Teaching Requirements
Student teaching is a crucial part of the certification process. You need to complete a semester-long student teaching experience under the guidance of a certified teacher. The goal is to gain hands-on experience in the classroom and to refine your teaching skills.
Speaking from experience, it is highly beneficial to observe in classrooms as early as possible. I did observations at two schools before I began my student teaching.
5. Passing Competency Tests
Most states require you to pass a competency test, such as the Praxis exam, which assesses your knowledge and skills as a teacher. Make sure you are prepared and registered to take the appropriate test before starting your certification process.
6. Collecting Letters of Recommendation
Collect letters of recommendation from professors, master teachers, and others involved in your student teaching experience. Ensure that these letters are relevant to your application for certification and job placement.
Alternative Routes to Certification
High school teachers have the option of pursuing alternative routes to certification, which can be particularly beneficial if you already have extensive experience in a specific subject area. Some states offer 'teach-for-America-style' programs that allow you to gain certification without the full traditional pathway. These programs may fast-track your certification process and provide valuable in-classroom experience.
Conclusion
Preparing to become a high school teacher involves careful planning and a commitment to meeting state-specific requirements. With the right undergraduate degree, teacher education program, and a strong student teaching experience, you can embark on a rewarding career in education.
Depending on the state, some relax requirements for degrees in education, focusing on professional experience. However, it's crucial to stay informed and plan accordingly. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the path to certification effectively and successfully.