How to Get Teacher Certification
As a teacher with a certificate, you are able to get a foot in the door at almost any school. From public schools to small, private institutions, you are welcome almost anywhere. Getting that teacher certification, however, can be challenging for some. For starters, it takes four years to get a bachelor's degree. Most schools prefer master's degrees. After that, you can enroll in a certification course. Some students get their certification along with their bachelor's degrees, which saves some time.
Teacher Certification Exam
The process of getting certified varies in each state. Most certification programs require a degree first, usually in education, but it can be in any subject. Your next step is to take the Praxis Series exam. It covers topics such as classroom management, early childhood education, special education and principles of learning and teaching. Different Praxis exams cover different subjects. There are study guides to help you practice beforehand. The test is lengthy, so prepare yourself accordingly with a good night's rest and a light meal.
Transferring a Teacher Certification
If you currently hold a certificate but want to move to another state to teach, you might be able to transfer your certification. Some states offer something called "state reciprocity," which lets out-of-state teachers jump back into teaching immediately. Other states require extra education and perhaps an additional Praxis exam. Most states have websites that allow current teachers to look up the laws regarding reciprocity agreements. If you have a bachelor's or master's degree from another state, it will most likely be accepted by the new state as long as it is nationally accredited.
Teacher Certification Benefits
By taking different Praxis exams, you can market yourself as a specialist in various subjects. Special education and early childhood education are popular exams. Both allow a new teacher to start working immediately, even without experience. If you currently have a degree in a technical subject, take the Praxis exam so you can teach your subject to students! Getting a certificate offers a relatively quick way to change your career.
