How to Become a Teacher in Louisiana

To embark on a teaching career in Louisiana, you’ll need to obtain state certification. The certification process consists of four major steps: 

1. Meeting the state’s educational background requirements as well as those for a state-approved educator preparation program
2. Completing a program, including a teaching residency
3. Passing the appropriate exams for your desired teaching position
4. Applying for your certificate and participating in a background check

As a Louisiana teacher, you can expect to initially make about $52,660 (the median salary for new teachers). However, the demand for teachers is so high that recently the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) increased K-12 education funding statewide. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step and point you to useful resources to make your journey to Louisiana teacher certification smoother.

Get Your Louisiana Teacher Certification

As mentioned, to get your Louisiana teaching certification, you must meet educational requirements, complete an educator preparation program, and pass the required tests. You’ll need to consider a few factors as you go through each of these steps.

Meet Educational Background Requirements to Become a Teacher in Louisiana

Louisiana requires most teaching applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited college or university. If you’re unsure whether the institution you attended is accredited, you can search for it at the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the Department of Education Louisiana Believes site. 

Educational background requirements will be set by the state-approved educator preparation program you select. You have the choice of enrolling in a university program or taking the shorter options of a post-baccalaureate program or an alternative certification program.

If you opt for either a post-baccalaureate or an alternative certification program, candidates for Louisiana Alternative Teacher Certification must have a minimum of a 2.2 GPA for acceptance and pass the same exams as traditional-pathway educators, the Praxis basic skills test and Praxis content-area exams. These exams are typically taken prior to applying to an alternative teacher preparation program. 

Complete an Educator Preparation Program

If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, a university program gives you the opportunity to earn one while also fulfilling your educator preparation program requirements. You’ll have to go through a four-year degree program, take courses in the specific content areas you’ll need for your certification, and do one year of field work. While completion time will vary from person to person, this certification route generally takes about five years. 

Completing an alternative certification or post-baccalaureate program will take significantly less time since you won’t have to earn credits for a degree. You usually will be able to complete the program’s coursework alongside the required two semesters of field experience. That means you will usually complete the program within a year. 

Another benefit of alternative certification or post-baccalaureate programs is that they’re likely to offer paid internships. Some alternative certification programs offer an unpaid clinical teaching placement that’s shorter in duration than the internship. In all cases (including university programs), once you are eligible for your teaching residency and you secure a teaching position, you must apply online for a one-year probationary certificate known as the temporary authority to teach (TAT) certification, pay an application fee, and undergo a criminal background check. You’ll create a Teach LA Live account for this application process. The TAT certificate is valid for one calendar year and can be renewed twice provided the educator has fulfilled the requirements. 

Pass Required Tests to Become a Teacher in Louisiana 

To demonstrate your grasp of educational theory and pedagogical best practices, you will have to take the Principles of Learning (PLT) test from the Louisiana PRAXIS exam series. You must also take the appropriate PRAXIS content area test(s) to confirm that you understand the content area(s) you want to teach. Once you’re a certified teacher, you can take more PRAXIS exams. This will expand the number of content areas in which you’re eligible to teach. Login to ETS to register for the appropriate test(s) required for Louisiana licensure. 

Submit Your Certification Application to Become a Teacher in Louisiana

Your educator preparation program must recommend you for certification before you can apply. Once they do, you can complete the application form and pay the fee via your online Teach LA Live account  account. The Louisiana Department of Education will perform a national criminal background check, which includes fingerprinting, as part of the process. 

The Louisiana Department of Education issues a standard certificate, but you won’t receive a paper copy. Instead, Teach Louisiana will post a virtual certificate to your online account as the official record of your certification as a Louisiana educator. Potential employers will search for that virtual certificate via Teach Louisiana’s Certificate Lookup tool.

Teaching Careers in Louisiana

A high demand for teachers makes Louisiana an appealing place to start a teaching career. While the median starting salary for teachers is $52,660, the state has devoted a significant amount of funds to supporting school systems’ strategic compensation models. According to the 2022 – 2023 US Department of Education Teacher Shortage Areas tool, teachers in the following subject/content areas are in especially high demand in Louisiana: 

• English as a Second Language
• World Languages
• Special Education
• Science
• Mathematics

Hopefully, you now have the information you need to begin your journey toward a satisfying new career. If the alternative certification option sounds right for you, download our Louisiana Success Guide for more information. Good luck! 

Frequently Asked Questions about Alternative Teacher Certification

How do I get a teaching certification in Louisiana?

To get a teaching certification in Louisiana, you must go through four steps. First, you’ll have to meet the educational background requirements set by the state and by the educator preparation program you select. One of those prerequisites will be a bachelor’s degree.

Second, you must complete your educator preparation program, which will involve a mix of coursework and field experience. Third, you must pass all the tests required to confirm your teaching capabilities. Once you have completed all the program requirements and passed the tests, your program will send a recommendation for your certification to the Louisiana Department of Education via Teach Louisiana.

Your fourth step will be completing an online application and going through a background check, including fingerprinting. The Louisiana Department of Education Teach Louisiana portal will issue a virtual standard certificate for you, which potential employers can find online.

How long does it take to become a certified teacher in Louisiana?

How long it takes to become a certified teacher in Louisiana often depends on whether you have a bachelor’s degree. If you don’t have a degree, you should enroll in a university program so that you can obtain your degree while also completing an educator preparation program. That process usually takes about five years.

If you already have a degree, you can opt for a post-baccalaureate or alternative certification program. You can usually complete a post-baccalaureate or alternative certification program in 12-16 months.

What is the fastest way to become a teacher in Louisiana?

For a prospective teacher with a bachelor’s degree, the fastest way to become a teacher in Louisiana is through an alternative certification program.

Do I need a degree in education to become a teacher in Louisiana?

No. In lieu of a degree in education, you can become a teacher in Louisiana by enrolling in an alternative certification program. Louisiana requires alternative certification programs to identify the content area (subject) enrollees will pursue for certification. If your degree directly relates to a certification field, the program will identify that field as your content area. But once you’re enrolled, you have the option of taking a PRAXIS certification test in a different content area.

How long does my certification last, and how do I renew it?

Louisiana has different tiers of certification. The length of certification depends on which you obtain. A Level 1 Professional Certificate is valid for three years and the first certification a new licensed teacher acquires.  Teachers must graduate or complete a State-approved teacher preparation program (traditional or alternative path with 2.5 GPA), pass all required PRAXIS exams for area of certification, and be recommended by a university or private provider to receive a Level 1 Professional Certificate.

This chart illustrates the various types of certifications and processes for teachers in Louisiana.

Can I teach in Louisiana without certification?

You can teach in Louisiana without certification. You must apply for a one-year probationary certificate known as the temporary authority to teach (TAT) certification. This certification can be renewed for an additional two years.

Can I take more than a year to complete an alternative certification program?

You can take more than a year to complete most alternative certification programs if the need arises. They will often even extend your probationary certificate for up to two years. Your educator preparation program can advise you regarding the possibility of an extension.

What if I’m a certified educator from another state?

If you have a standard, renewable certificate from another state, you must apply to the Louisiana Department of Education for a review of your credentials. Your certificate does not need to be currently valid, but it must have been a standard level certificate when it was issued. The Department of Louisiana has created a detailed out-of-state certification application. 

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How To Become A Teacher In Tennessee

Are you interested in becoming a teacher in Tennessee? With the growing demand for educators across the state, now is an excellent time to enter the profession. This article will explore the process of becoming a certified teacher in Tennessee, including meeting educational requirements and passing required tests. 

We will also look at the current job market for teachers in Tennessee and discuss some alternative pathways available. The process includes several steps that to complete before you can receive your certification: 

1. Meet educational background requirements 
2. Complete an educator preparation program endorsed by the state 
3. Pass required tests and put in the practical teaching time required for licensing 

Once you have fulfilled these requirements, you will be eligible for a practitioner’s license and can begin your teaching career. We’ll look at these criteria in detail below, including the current job market for teachers in Tennessee and some of the alternative pathways available to gain certification. 

So if you are ready to take the next step towards becoming a certified teacher in Tennessee, keep reading!

Get Your Tennessee Teacher Certification

There are several steps you must take if you want to get your teacher certification in Tennessee. You must complete a bachelor’s degree, finish a teacher certification program, pass several mandatory exams, and apply for a teaching license. Let’s break the stages down even further for you. 

1. Meet Educational Background Requirements to Become a Teacher in Tennessee

There are many academic requirements you need to meet if you want to become a teacher in Tennessee. The most common route to gaining your initial practitioner’s license is to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. 

Accreditation means that the institution has approval for quality assurance purposes and its educational standards are met. In Tennessee, accreditation is determined by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the Tennessee Department of Education (TDE). 

If you do not have a bachelor’s degree, there are alternative pathways you can take. These include alternative certification programs that allow you to teach as you complete your coursework. You may also be eligible to obtain a transitional teaching license if you have received a degree in an unrelated subject from an accredited institution and plan on teaching it. 

To qualify for this license, you will need to meet particular prerequisites, including:

• Completing 24 hours of study in the area that you intend to teach
• Passing the Praxis II exam in your subject area

The Tennessee Board of Education sets all educational requirements for teachers in the state and outlines pathways to becoming certified. To progress from an initial to a professional license, you must demonstrate three years of experience working in an appropriate pre-K-12 instructional setting.

2. Complete an Educator Preparation Program Endorsed by the State

Tennessee requires prospective teachers to complete an approved teacher preparation program to become certified. Depending on your educational background, you may have several pathways open to you. 

For undergraduate students, various bachelor’s degree programs in education-related subjects will prepare them for teaching certification. Post-baccalaureate programs offer alternative routes for those who already have a bachelor’s degree but wish to pursue certification. 

Many of these programs feature internships and student teaching components designed to give participants hands-on experience in the classroom before they receive their licenses. 

Whatever route you choose, ensure it is an approved teacher preparation program that meets the Tennessee State Board of Education’s (SBE) guidelines. 

3. Pass Required Tests to Become a Teacher in Tennessee

You must pass the Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) to gain acceptance into any teacher certification program. This test measures basic skills such as reading, writing and mathematics. 

In addition, depending on your subject area of interest, you may also need to take either Praxis II and Praxis II Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exams. These tests measure competencies related to your chosen field of study. 

It’s important to note that there are specific tests for each subject area, and you must meet a minimum score for your application acceptance.

Teaching Careers in Tennessee

If you are interested in becoming a teacher in Tennessee, you should know that there is a growing demand for educators across the state. As of the end of 2022, there was a shortage of more than 1000 teachers, which means it’s an excellent time to get into the profession. 

In addition to traditional pathways to becoming certified as a teacher in Tennessee, alternative routes allow prospective teachers to gain certification while they work. This includes programs like iTeach’s Online Teacher Certification curriculum that provides job training and mentoring for new teachers. 

Tennessee also offers generous salaries for public school teachers – as of May 2023, the average salary was $52,065. This can range as low as $44,000 and as high as $54,000, depending on experience and location. 

When examining the teaching areas most in demand, there are three categories:

• Highschool math
• Special education
• Primary grades

If you’re ready to start your career in teaching in Tennessee, it’s essential to research what type of certification is required for the position you are interested in. You should also explore the various available pathways to find the best route for obtaining your credential quickly and easily.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alternative Teaching Certification

How do I get a teaching certificate in Tennessee?

To get a teaching certification in Tennessee, you must complete a few steps. Firstly, you must meet the educational background requirements, which usually involve obtaining a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college. Alternatively, there are post-baccalaureate pathways and certification programs available that may be more suitable for your goals. Secondly, you should complete an educator preparation program endorsed by the state of Tennessee. These often feature internships and student teaching components designed to provide hands-on experience in the classroom before licensing.

Thirdly, you must pass necessary tests, such as the Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) and Praxis II exams, which measure your competency in your chosen field. Once you have completed these steps, you can apply for teaching certification in Tennessee. When applying, prepare to submit for federal and state background checks, as well as your fingerprints. You will also be required to send your official transcripts of your bachelor’s program and your educator preparation program, not to mention the results of your Praxis II and PPST exams. 

How do I renew my certification, and how long does it last?

To renew your teaching certification in Tennessee, you must have accumulated 60 Professional Development Points (PDPs). PDPs are awarded for activities that enhance a teacher’s professional development, such as workshops, seminars and other continuing education courses. You can find more information on the TDE website or consult with your local school board about how to earn PDPs. The initial practitioner teaching license is valid for three years. After accumulating three years of teaching time, you may apply to upgrade to the Professional version, which lasts for six years. 

To renew this license every six years, you will need an additional 60 PDPS. It’s important to note that professional development activities vary from state to state, so it is best to consult with your local school board or the Tennessee Board of Education for more specific information on how to obtain PDPS in your area. Additionally, you should keep track of all PDPs earned and document them, as they will be necessary when applying for renewal. To ensure that your license remains valid throughout this process, complete all requirements before the expiration date of your current 

Can I teach in Tennessee without certification?

No, it is not possible to teach in Tennessee without certification. All teachers in the state must meet educational and licensing requirements set forth by the Tennessee Board of Education. This includes holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or completing a post-baccalaureate or alternative certification program that meets the board’s criteria. In addition, all prospective teachers must pass required tests such as the Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) and Praxis II exams related to their subject area of interest. While alternative pathways are available for those new to teaching, they still require applicants to possess certain qualifications and fulfill specific requirements.

What if I’m a certified educator from another state?

If you’re a certified educator from another state looking to teach in Tennessee, there are three pathways you can take depending on the license level you seek. The first pathway is the Practitioner License for those with an out-of-state initial level license, valid for three years. This option requires a bachelor’s degree, a recommendation from the out-of-state Educator Preparation Program (EPP) where you completed your program, and official transcripts of all higher education credits. However, assessment scores aren’t required initially but will be necessary for license renewal or advancement. 

The second pathway is similar to the first. It requires you to obtain a Practitioner License with a recommendation from an out-of-state EPP and to submit qualifying scores on all the necessary assessments at the time of application. This route also requires a bachelor’s degree and official transcripts. The third and final pathway is for educators with a full, valid, and renewable professional-level license from another state. If your license is equivalent to Tennessee’s Professional license, you could be issued a Tennessee Professional 6-Year license. This route still requires a bachelor’s degree and official transcripts.

Do I need a degree in education to become a teacher in Tennessee?

No. In lieu of a degree in education, you can become a teacher in Tennessee by enrolling in an alternative certification program. You will need to have at least a bachelor’s degree, but it will not have to be in education. If your degree directly relates to a certification field, the program will identify that field as your content area. But once you’re enrolled, you have the option of taking a certification test in a different content area.

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iteach & Teaching Channel Support Indiana Teacher Candidate’s Classroom Success

Jessika Collins was having an average day managing the emergency department at the hospital where she worked when she heard from one of her teacher friends that many Science positions had opened up in her local school district. Ms. Collins started filling out the application and got sidetracked. Later that day, she received a call from the school district to follow up on her partially completed application to see if she wanted to come in to interview. After shadowing classes, Ms. Collins was hired as a 7th and 8th-grade Science teacher at Plaza Park International Prep Academy in Evansville, Indiana. 

Why Ms. Collins Decided She Wanted to Teach

After having various jobs in the Science field, Ms. Collins wasn’t feeling fulfilled. 

“I worked in a research lab for a little while, which I thought was what I wanted to do with my life. Then I was a manager in an emergency department at a hospital, and I also didn’t find that to be very fulfilling. So when I was thinking about careers I could stick with long-term, teaching kept coming up again for me. And naturally, I wanted to give it a try.” 

How Her Journey Led to iteach

When Ms. Collins started seriously thinking about pursuing teaching as a career, she began looking for ways to make her desire to teach a reality. She searched the Indiana Department of Education‘s website for accredited programs and found iteach.

“iteach resonated with me because I already have a graduate degree. There was no incentive for me to return to school and get a whole new degree. I just needed the pedagogy to go with it.”

The Benefits of iteach for Parents

Ms. Collins is a mom of two and was looking for a program that would provide flexibility in coursework, so iteach’s asynchronous platform made it a perfect fit. 

“In addition to teaching, lesson planning, and grading papers, I have two kids under two, so the flow of my life is a little hectic. I cannot commit to attending class every week because I need to find childcare.”

iteach’s online coursework allows her to complete her assignments when she has the time and the mental capacity to focus. She can take as long as she needs on something without feeling rushed to study for a quiz or complete assignments. 

“I’m very happy this program exists, especially for career changers who cannot take that time with families and other commitments.” 

Support from Teaching Channel & iteach Supervisors

“I loved having access to the Teaching Channel,” said Ms. Collins.

“Since it’s just been so long since I’ve been in a middle school environment, I had no idea what to expect. So watching the videos on Teaching Channel and seeing the different classroom cultures was so helpful and I was able to pick and choose things from the videos that I felt would be really helpful for my kids and for my teaching style.”

In her first year of teaching, there were many little things that Ms. Collins didn’t foresee having to think about, like her classroom culture and how to address students and answer questions. All of these considerations were addressed completely through iteach coursework and access to Teaching Channel in a very clear way. 

“The iteach professors are very helpful. They’re available to answer questions when I need them, and they give very detailed comments and feedback on what could be better. The things that I’m learning in the modules are helpful when making my lesson plans and thinking about my teaching style.”

“I have received positive feedback too, which is just so encouraging in your first year of teaching because that imposter syndrome is so real that first year. Getting that positive encouragement has been really important to me emotionally, to know that I’m on the right track and doing the right things to be a good educator.”

What Ms. Collins Enjoys About Teaching

When asked what she enjoys most about teaching, Ms. Collins replied, “I enjoy the majority of my job. There are hard days. There are hard days in every job, though. I think what’s different about this job than any other career I’ve previously pursued is I get to be creative every day. Every day I get to decide what I’m doing in the room. With Science, it can be so fun doing the labs, going outside, and having the freedom to direct my students to master whatever standard we’re working on.”

One of her favorite parts of the job is the relationships she forms with her students and learning about their lives. She has many English learners in her classroom, so she learns about their home cultures and bonds with them. 

“You get to be your own boss, essentially, because you’re deciding what is going on in the classroom and what’s being graded and what’s important.”

“When I first started this job, something that I wasn’t expecting was, at the end of the day, my face would hurt from smiling so much. These kids just make you smile, and they’re so caring too. You can really tell when that relationship’s developed. When they come up to you and ask you how your day is going or if you had to miss a day, they’ll come by in the morning and ask where you were yesterday and tell you that they really missed you. So it’s very fulfilling in ways my other jobs could never have been. They never could have reached that level of fulfillment.”

What Encourages Ms. Collins to Stay in the Classroom

“Honestly, I’m just really enjoying it. It’s fun. It is creative. I’m free to pick whatever we do that day. If I wake up and feel like we’re gonna do a lab today, then we’re going to do a lab. I’ve never had that freedom before. As a manager, it was meetings, meetings, meetings, making the schedule, finding coverage for people who call out. So when I was a manager, I was still my own boss, but I was still being pulled in all these directions and not feeling fulfilled in the work because it was a lot of computer work and admin work. While working in the lab as a researcher, I was not getting that social aspect. I’m sitting in a lab by myself, running experiments, getting discouraged when they’re not working. I wasn’t getting that fulfillment where I felt like I was contributing to something bigger than myself.”

“I’m just excited to come here every day and see the kids. I’ve made so many good relationships with them. Some of them I have in seventh grade now, so I will have them again next year. And I’m just so excited about seeing them grow up like that. I’ve just made so many positive memories.”

“I can’t see myself stopping now, especially now that I know what I’m doing. And that’s just going to continue to grow.”

Something Ms. Collins wishes she was told before starting in the classroom is that the kids don’t know that you haven’t taught before. 

“[To them], you’re just Ms. Collins, and you’ve always been a teacher, and you always will be a teacher, and you don’t have a life outside of home. They think this is my teacher. This is what she’s telling me to do today, so I’m going to do it.”

Support from Fellow Educators

Ms. Collins wants to make people aware that you will run into situations where administration support is vital. Students will have behavioral issues that you need to address. She expected that if she built a relationship with her students, she would never have a problem, but that is not always the case.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have a very supportive administration to support me dealing with those issues.”

“I’ve also been very lucky to have other supportive teachers. It’s not just the administration of the school that is supportive. It’s like an environment, a culture at this school that’s very helpful. I eat lunch with the other eighth-grade teachers every day. I’m able to get advice from them. And then with the seventh-grade teachers, during one of my planning periods, we all get together and talk, and they’ve been so helpful in answering my questions and even giving me perspective on teaching at other schools.”

What The 2023-24 School Year Has In Store 

Since Ms. Collins didn’t start teaching until the school year already started, she is thrilled to set her classroom expectations from day one next Fall. When she entered the classroom in the Fall of 2022, the students had already undergone so many changes and weren’t sure if she would stay as their teacher. She reassured them that she was there to stay and immediately started thinking about what she could accomplish in the classroom, starting on day one. 

“I am very excited for next school year because I can actually go back to the first day of school modules and set up a classroom culture and set the expectations and conduct activities I learned through iteach curriculum and Teaching Channel videos. Since I was already inheriting a classroom environment, it was kind of hard to break those habits once they had already been set.”

Thank you for all you do for your students, Ms. Collins! We are thankful to have been part of your teaching story.

If you are interested in teaching, apply today. 

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Congratulations to iteach Texas Teachers of the Year! 

For the fourteenth year, iteach has identified an Elementary Candidate of the Year and a Secondary Candidate of the Year to each be awarded a $4,000 check. This year out of the 11 elementary teachers and 11 secondary teachers nominated, exceptional teachers Mrs. Brittnee Brandt and Mr. Jose Angel Flores received these esteemed awards!

Each year, teachers are nominated by their program field supervisors, who mentored them throughout their first year in the classroom. Learn more about these inspirational teachers. 

Mrs. Brittnee Brandt

Mrs. Brandt is a 3rd-5th grade Science teacher at Dawson ISD. After being an ICU nurse for 15 years, Mrs. Brandt wanted to find a career that would allow her to have the same schedule as her four boys, so teaching seemed like a natural career to pursue. 

When talking to the principal at her children’s school, he provided Mrs. Brandt with options for alternative certification. When she started her research, she found iteach to be the best path to certification for her. She was enrolled in the program two weeks after beginning her journey to certification. 

As a mom of four, iteach’s self-paced courses allowed her to be there for her kids while finding time to study and complete her coursework.

Mrs. Brandt was nominated as iteach Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year by her field supervisor, Mr. Ron Leach. 

“I love Mr. Leach. I cannot say enough good things about him. He made me feel comfortable, and he is very easy to talk to and work with. He was always quick to answer any questions I had. I thought he was fantastic.”

When asked how it felt to win the awards, Mrs. Brandt shared.

“This has been amazing. I was very honored when he nominated me. As a family of six, it was a lot of money to put aside for school, but we did it because it was important, and we knew it was what we needed to do for our family. It means a lot to our family to be able to reimburse what we paid for school because of this scholarship. I am grateful for the award and for Mr. Leach feeling like I was worthy of it.”

Mrs. Brandt had so much fun with her students this year and is excited about what the next year has in store. She is ready to continue to grow as a teacher and come up with new ways to help them learn and grow in their knowledge.

“I felt very prepared in all areas of teaching. I think [iteach] did a great job of getting you thinking about all those things you may not have been aware that you would encounter or that you even needed to think about before you entered the classroom.”

Mr. Jose Angel Flores

Mr. Flores is a Secondary Physical Education teacher and head gymnastics coach at Odessa High School. At 17 years old, his gymnastics coaches noticed he had a natural talent to teach and hired him on as a competitive gymnastics coach. 

When the pandemic hit, he lost his coaching job. He knew it was time to make a change in his career and decided, “The next level of coaching is going to be teaching.”

“I think the first thing that persuaded me to go into teaching was that I already knew the basics of how to communicate with people, I knew how to motivate kids to accomplish things, and I would have some free time of my own to accomplish what I want. I feel balance is an important part of life, and so being able to give your time to someone else and have your time set for yourself to do what you want to accomplish fulfills both of those goals of balance.”

Mr. Flores talked to a friend who was an elementary school teacher who went through iteach and recommended the program. He was thankful for the program always being there for him and responsive even during a pandemic. The resources iteach provided helped him to feel successful in the classroom and gave him the confidence to pass his exams. Being able to go through the courses at his own pace was key to his success.

Mr. Flores formed a strong bond with his field supervisor, Mrs. Vicki Leach.

“When I met my field supervisor, I was extremely nervous, but we just clicked. When you find people with similar philosophies, you can really build with them. With a passion for teaching, we had some of the same goals. When you meet someone that has the same goals or is like-minded, you can really just feed off of each other and bounce back ideas.”

“She was very supportive, and she answered any questions I had. She would even give me reminders sometimes. I think it was just a really unique experience I had with iteach and getting to meet my field supervisor.” 

To receive the iteach Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year feels like he has accomplished something very great in his life. After performing all his life, he said, “I am used to being recognized for actions, but this type of recognition is different because it was for more than what I can show but for what is on the inside, so this type of recognition really struck me in a different way. It is really motivating and gives you the sense of confidence that you know what you are doing.”

Mr. Flores looks forward to what the next year of teaching has in store and cannot wait to see his students continue to grow.

Congratulations, Mrs. Brandt and Mr. Flores, on your accomplishments! We are thrilled iteach was part of your teaching journey.

If you are interested in becoming a certified teacher, apply today!

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Prepare for Success Through the Entire Teacher Certification Process

In today’s competitive job market, pursuing a career in education requires not only a passion for teaching but also a comprehensive understanding of the content covered on certification exams. Recognizing the need for effective test preparation resources, iteach has forged a strategic partnership with Passage Preparation, a leading provider of test preparation materials for teacher certification. This collaboration aims to equip iteach candidates with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in their certification exams and excel as educators.

The Power of Collaboration 

iteach and Passage Preparation bring together their respective expertise to support soon-to-be teachers through their entire certification process. iteach, renowned for its commitment to high-quality teacher certification programs, now bolsters its offerings with Passage Preparation because it helps candidates excel in their certification tests. This partnership represents a shared vision of empowering aspiring educators with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the certification process successfully. After a thorough review of multiple test preparation providers, iteach determined Passage Preparation is the clear winner.

Comprehensive Test Prep Materials

Passage Preparation was developed because the organization believes anyone preparing to demonstrate their knowledge of content and pedagogy should have high-quality, affordable preparation resources. Passage Preparation brings years of experience in the preparation, licensure assessment, and certification space and has produced high-quality test preparation courses, practice exams, and instructional resources tailored specifically to the requirements of various certification exams. These resources cover all essential subject areas, ensuring candidates have access to relevant and up-to-date content aligned to the actual exam format and content.

Expert Guidance and Support 

Preparing for certification exams and the first year in the classroom can be daunting, but with iteach and Passage Preparation, candidates receive unparalleled guidance and support. 

Some key benefits of these programs include: 

• Expert educators break down content covered on licensure assessments into manageable modules and sections to prepare candidates for success.
• Mentorship by trusted supervisors throughout teaching residency.
• Practical opportunities to engage with content through sample practice tests with hundreds of questions representative of those that appear on the actual assessment. 
• Courses developed by teachers who have deep content expertise and experience in real classrooms. 
• Access to Teaching Channel’s library of 1,500+ video resources.

Preparation on Your Schedule

Both iteach and Passage Preparation courses are online and asynchronous, so candidates can prepare and complete their requirements when it works best for them. Teacher candidates come from all walks of life. Some are parents, some are recent grads, and some are changing careers. Whatever the circumstance, iteach and Passage Preparation knows candidates have a lot on their plate, so these flexible, self-paced programs prepare candidates for success.

How the Partnership Works

Once you enroll into the iteach teacher certification program, you will receive a code to your email for full access to free Passage Preparation materials to help you prepare for your TExES and Praxis tests for 90 days. The qualified team at Passage Preparation is consistently working on adding new high-quality test preparation materials to the organization’s offerings for all states.

The partnership between iteach and Passage Preparation marks a significant milestone in test preparation for aspiring educators. By providing iteach candidates with free access to high-quality test preparation resources, the organization hopes to see increased success in passing exams on the first try to allow qualified candidates to get into classrooms quicker. iteach and Passage Preparation aim to continue to empower future educators to achieve their goals and positively impact the classroom.

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How to Become a Teacher in Texas

To embark on a teaching career in Texas, you’ll need to obtain state certification. The certification process consists of four major steps: 

1. Meeting the state’s educational background requirements as well as those for a state-approved educator preparation program
2. Completing a program, including a teaching residency
3. Passing the appropriate exams for your desired teaching position
4. Applying for your certificate and participating in a background check

As a Texas teacher, you can expect to initially make about $46,550 (the median salary for new teachers). However, the demand for teachers is so high that some are currently earning six figures due to state legislation and districts’ strategic compensation models. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step and point you to useful resources to make your journey to Texas teacher certification smoother.

Get Your Texas Teacher Certification

As mentioned, to get your Texas teaching certification, you must meet educational requirements, complete an educator preparation program, and pass the required tests. You’ll need to consider a few factors as you go through each of these steps.

Meet Educational Background Requirements to Become a Teacher in Texas

Texas requires most teaching applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in any subject from an accredited college or university. If you’re unsure whether the institution you attended is accredited, you can search for it at the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). 

If you’ll be applying for Health Science Technology or Trades & Industrial Education certifications, you won’t need a bachelor’s degree. However, a Health Science certificate does require an associate degree. If you’re interested in either of these certification areas, check out the Texas Education Agency (TEA) web page explaining their specific requirements.

Most other educational background requirements will be set by the state-approved educator preparation program you select. You have the choice of enrolling in a university program or taking the shorter options of a post-baccalaureate program or an alternative certification program.

If you opt for either a post-baccalaureate or an alternative certification program, the state will require you to pass a TX Pre-Admission Content Test (PACT) exam before being accepted under the following circumstances:

• You have a GPA of less than 2.50 or
• You have not completed at least 12 semester credit hours in the subject (also called a content area) you’ve chosen for certification. Note: certification in math or science above grade seven will require 15 semester credit hours.

Tip: If you have enough credit hours to qualify for another content area, you may be able to use them for admission. Then, once you’re in the program, you can take the test required for the content area you want. Discuss that possibility with the program’s admissions staff.

Complete an Educator Preparation Program

If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree, a university program gives you the opportunity to earn one while also fulfilling your educator preparation program requirements. You’ll have to go through a four-year degree program, take courses in the specific content areas you’ll need for your certification, and do one year of field work. While completion time will vary from person to person, this certification route generally takes about five years. 

Completing an alternative certification or post-baccalaureate program will take significantly less time since you won’t have to earn credits for a degree. You usually will be able to complete the program’s coursework alongside the required two semesters of field experience. That means you will usually complete the program within a year. 

Another benefit of alternative certification or post-baccalaureate programs is that they’re likely to offer paid internships. Some alternative certification programs offer an unpaid clinical teaching placement that’s shorter in duration than the internship. In all cases (including university programs), once you are eligible for your teaching residency and you secure a teaching position, you must apply online for a one-year probationary certificate, pay an application fee, and undergo a criminal background check. You’ll create a TEA Login (TEAL) account for this application process.

Program requirements for career and technical education (CTE) areas such as Health Science Technology or Trades & Industrial Education are a bit more involved. You will require at least two years of verified work experience. Some of that experience can be prior to your enrollment in the program. In addition, you will need to have a current, industry-specific license, certificate, or registration from the state or nationally-recognized accrediting agency in addition to your teaching certification. In some cases, you will also have to pass the appropriate National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) assessment.

Pass Required Tests to Become a Teacher in Texas

To demonstrate your grasp of educational theory and pedagogical best practices, you will have to take the Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) test from the Texas Examination of Educator Standards (TExES) exam series. You must also take the appropriate TExES content area test(s) to confirm that you understand the content area(s) you want to teach. Once you’re a certified teacher, you can take more TExES exams. This will expand the number of content areas in which you’re eligible to teach. 

If you want a Bilingual Education certificate or Languages Other Than English (LOTE) certificate, you will also have to take Language Testing International’s foreign language test for your selected language.

Submit Your Certification Application to Become a Teacher in Texas

Your educator preparation program must recommend you for certification before you can apply. Once they do, you can complete the application form and pay the fee via your online TEAL (TEA Login) account. TEA will perform a national criminal background check, which includes fingerprinting, as part of the process. 

TEA issues a standard certificate, but you won’t receive a paper copy. Instead, TEA will post a virtual certificate to your online account as the official record of your certification as a Texas educator. Potential employers will search for that virtual certificate via TEA’s Certificate Lookup tool.

Teaching Careers in Texas

A high demand for teachers makes Texas an appealing place to start a teaching career. While the median starting salary for teachers is $46,550, the state has devoted a significant amount of funds to supporting school systems’ strategic compensation models. According to the 2023 Texas Teacher Vacancy Task Force Final Report, that strategic compensation has enabled teachers to quickly earn higher salaries “based on performance and other factors such as campus needs and subject area.” The report even found that the number of Texas teachers earning six-figure salaries has doubled since 2019. 

Teachers for the following subject/content areas are in especially high demand:

• English as a Second Language
• Career and Technical Education
• Special Education
• Computer Science

Hopefully, you now have the information you need to begin your journey toward a satisfying new career. If the alternative certification option sounds right for you, download our Texas Success Guide for more information. Good luck! 

Frequently Asked Questions about Alternative Teacher Certification

How do I get a teaching certification in Texas?

To get a teaching certification in Texas, you must go through four steps. First, you’ll have to meet the educational background requirements set by the state and by the educator preparation program you select. One of those prerequisites will be a bachelor’s degree (unless you’re applying for Health Science Technology or Trades & Industrial Education certifications). 

Second, you must complete your educator preparation program, which will involve a mix of coursework and field experience. Third, you must pass all the tests required to confirm your teaching capabilities. Once you have completed all the program requirements and passed the tests, your program will send a recommendation for your certification to the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Your fourth step will be completing an online application and going through a background check, including fingerprinting. TEA will issue a virtual standard certificate for you, which potential employers can find online.

How long does it take to become a certified teacher in Texas?

How long it takes to become a certified teacher in Texas often depends on whether you have a bachelor’s degree. If you don’t have a degree, you should enroll in a university program so that you can obtain your degree while also completing an educator preparation program. That process usually takes about five years. 

If you already have a degree, you can opt for a post-baccalaureate or alternative certification program. You can usually complete a post-baccalaureate or alternative certification program in 12-16 months.

For some certifications (e.g., Health Science Technology, Trades & Industrial Education, Marketing) you’ll need at least two years of full-time work experience in lieu of or in addition to your degree. You can acquire work experience before you enroll in the educator preparation program. Health Science Technology and Trades & Industrial Education also require you to have current licensure, certification, or registration for working in that field (in addition to your teaching certification). For those two, you may be able to substitute military experience for work experience and licensure. Discuss your circumstances with the staff of your selected educator preparation program to get an idea of how long it may take you to get certified.

What is the fastest way to become a teacher in Texas?

For a prospective teacher with a bachelor’s degree, the fastest way to become a teacher in Texas is through an alternative certification program. These programs can be completed in as little as six months (when you opt for an unpaid clinical placement).

Do I need a degree in education to become a teacher in Texas?

No. In lieu of a degree in education, you can become a teacher in Texas by enrolling in an alternative certification program. You will need to have at least a bachelor’s degree (except for Health Science Technology or Trades & Industrial Education certifications), but it will not have to be in education. Texas requires alternative certification programs to identify the content area (subject) enrollees will pursue for certification. If your degree directly relates to a certification field, the program will identify that field as your content area. But once you’re enrolled, you have the option of taking a TExES certification test in a different content area.

How long does my certification last, and how do I renew it?

Your certification lasts approximately five years. All standard certificates expire on the same date, so it’s possible that you may have to renew your certificate before five years have passed. The expiration date is found on your virtual certificate and in your online account profile.

To renew your certificate, you must complete 150 continuing professional education (CPE) hours. No more than 150 CPE hours are required, even if you are certified for more than one area. If your certificate expires before five years have passed, your CPE hours are prorated. You will only need to complete 10 CPE hours for each full year that your certificate is active.

You will submit an online renewal application and pay the associated fee though your online account. The renewal process will include an online affidavit in which you will attest that you have met all renewal requirements. If you do not renew your certificate by the expiration date, it is automatically designated as inactive. You can renew your certificate even after it has become inactive.

Can I teach in Texas without certification?

You can teach in Texas without certification. The state allows school districts to issue a school district teaching permit (SDTP) to individuals who do not have a teaching certificate. However, districts only have the authority to issue permits for “noncore academic CTE courses.”  These are career and technical education courses that don’t count toward students’ math, science, language arts, or social studies credits for graduation. Permits for any other course will have to be approved by the commissioner of education.

Your SDTP would only be valid in the district that issued it. If you are approved for a course other than a noncore academic CTE course, TEA states that you will still be limited to working as a classroom teacher or a teacher for special education, bilingual education, English as a second language, prekindergarten or preK-4 students. You will be ineligible for other positions (e.g., school counselor, school librarian, or administrator).

To acquire a SDTP, you must undergo a criminal background check and receive classroom management training. The district’s board of trustees may also require you to meet additional continuing education requirements.

Can I take more than a year to complete an alternative certification program?

You can take more than a year to complete most alternative certification programs if the need arises. They will often even extend your probationary certificate for up to two years. Your educator preparation program can advise you regarding the possibility of an extension.

What if I’m a certified educator from another state?

If you have a standard, renewable certificate from another state, you must apply to TEA for a review of your credentials. Your certificate does not need to be currently valid, but it must have been a standard level certificate when it was issued. TEA has created a detailed checklist to guide you through the process.

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iteach Certified Teacher Named Teacher of the Year

Like many, Megan Hall didn’t know what she wanted to do professionally right out of college. She worked as an electrician, processing tech, car salesperson, and banking professional before the pandemic hit in 2020. During Covid-19, she decided she wanted to make a change in where she was headed and turned to a career in education.

Today, she has been honored as Teacher of the Year at Arlington Preparatory Academy and District-level Teacher of the Year. She currently serves as the Department Head of Science on her campus at Arlington Preparatory Academy. 

Ms. Hall knows the journey is a prominent part of the process, and she thanks iteach for being part of her story.

The Research Process to Becoming a Certified Teacher

When the pandemic hit, Ms. Hall enrolled in courses to become a bioelectrical engineer but quickly realized that was not the right path for her. She started to think about the options available to her with a 4-year biology degree and decided to look into teaching. She wanted to be more hands-on and make an impact daily.

She took her search to the internet and quickly found iteach. 

“When you google search, iteach is right there, and I thought, does this work? Through research, iteach seemed to be my most viable option.”

The iteach Experience

For Ms. Hall, the iteach process was smooth, and being able to work through the program at her own pace fit her needs seamlessly. 

“I had the ability to handle the personal stuff, but I didn’t know the ins and outs of the methodology of teaching, and iteach provided me with that.”

Even with a mentor program on campus, Ms. Hall found the most support from her iteach mentor, Molly Williams. 

“Molly gave me more insightful feedback than I was getting at any other turn. She explained how I could improve the wording of my objectives and lesson plans and helped me recognize many small things to improve the larger scope and picture.”

iteach mentors, like Ms. Williams, support teachers in the iteach program at every step of the way. Whether that is how to improve a lesson plan or a little encouragement to keep moving forward, mentors during this process are vital to the success of new teachers.

“If I ever needed her, all I had to do was email her. She also provided me with her phone number.”

“Molly gave me the space to believe in myself. She was very qualified, saying you aren’t doing it wrong.”

Ms. Hall noticed that in her first year of teaching, she was mostly alone with the students, making it difficult to gain the confidence to ensure she was progressing down the right path. With the support from an iteach mentor to watch lessons and provide feedback, iteach educators have a substantial advantage in ensuring they are equipping their students to be successful.

“It felt good to hear her feedback and get her ratings on me because I wouldn’t have known where I stood without that.”

How iteach Curriculum Prepares for the Classroom: Day One & Beyond

“The knowledge I gained from the first couple of [iteach] chapters was essential to what came next.”

The iteach curriculum has been revised over the 20 years the company has operated to ensure it prepares teachers for the reality of the classroom. 

“The first-day checklist was my bible because I had such anxiety going into that classroom. It helped me get my legs underneath me so I had somewhere to go from the first day. The first day sets the tone for the rest of your time there.”

Ms. Hall is vigilant in ensuring she helps her students know she is there for them to help them develop as whole people.

“The first day I was there, they asked me if I was another sub, but I told them, ‘I am your forever teacher now.'” 

She believes that her connections with her students are a big reason why she was selected as the Teacher of the Year on her campus and why the recognition continued at the district level.

Being Honored as Teacher of the Year

When learning about the honor, Ms. Hall said, “It is validation. It is a huge honor. I never thought I would achieve these things and that my work would be validated and appreciated in such an important and visible way.”

Her fellow teachers nominated her for the school award, and then she advanced to district selections. The process required her to complete written and verbal responses and share a recorded classroom video.

“To be recognized as a positive influence and having a positive impact rather than the negative connotations associated with people who look like me, that was a big deal to me.”

A Beautiful Mentor & Mentee Connection

Her mentor, Ms. Williams, came to Ms. Hall’s Teacher of the Year reception to support and congratulate her. 

“Molly wrote one of the recommendation letters. It was beautiful and made me cry. I didn’t know that is what she thought of me.”

In her letter, Ms. Williams shared how Ms. Hall helps her students feel seen and has established a true learning community in her class to build on each child’s strengths. She said that after observing many good teachers of the last decade, Ms. Hall stands out as an exceptional educator.

What Keeps Her Motivated to Teach

 “When you are able to break through the false stories and see that lightbulb come on. To me, that is the magic.”

She constantly challenges her students to question their preconceptions and encourages them to pause and think to make better life choices. 

“We are creating whole people, and we need to help create whole people who are successful.”

Her advice to people considering becoming future teachers is, “If you have life experience and empathy and you want to make an impact, just do it. The best route is the most direct, and iteach will get you there.”

At iteach, we are so thankful to bring teachers like Ms. Hall into the classroom to impact students’ lives. Congratulations, Ms. Hall! We will root for your Teacher of the Year win at the state level!

If you want to become a teacher, start our program today!

Apply now!

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The 10 Benefits of Becoming a Teacher

Teaching is more than just a job; it’s a profound vocation that shapes the future of society. The rewards of this noble profession are plentiful, ranging from personal growth to societal impact. This deep dive will explore the 10 benefits of becoming a teacher.

1. Impact on Students and the Next Generation

• Ignite the fire of knowledge in students’ hearts and minds
• Shape future leaders, thinkers, and creators
• Inspire, encourage, and mold responsible, successful, and compassionate citizens

Teaching allows you to ignite the fire of knowledge in the hearts and minds of students. As an educator, you’ll play an instrumental role in shaping our society’s future leaders, thinkers, and creators. You will inspire, encourage, and help mold the next generation into responsible, successful, and compassionate citizens.

2. Job Stability

• Steady income and benefits
• Teaching remains a top priority for communities and governments
• Teachers are always in demand

Teaching offers a stable career with steady income and benefits. While no job is entirely recession-proof, education remains a top priority for communities and governments. There is a nationwide teacher shortage, so the teaching career is in more demand than ever, ensuring job security in an ever-changing world. 

3. Every Day is Different

• Vibrant mix of challenges and opportunities
• Test creativity, resilience, and problem-solving skills
• A new adventure every day

In the classroom, no two days are alike. You’ll encounter a vibrant mix of challenges and opportunities that will test your creativity, resilience, and problem-solving skills. The benefits of becoming a teacher provide a new adventure each day, ensuring you’ll never be bored. From making creative lesson plans, supporting students one on one through concepts they may need help understanding to brainstorming new approaches with your colleagues, teaching offers a variety that most careers cannot.

4. Improved Public Speaking

• Present ideas and convey complex concepts daily
• Sharpen public speaking skills
• Become a confident, articulate, and engaging communicator

As a teacher, you’ll present ideas and convey complex concepts to your students daily. This consistent practice will sharpen your public speaking skills, making you a confident, articulate, and engaging communicator. Public speaking skills are essential for any career, so whether you stay in teaching until you retire or move into an educational leadership role, your day-to-day communication with your students will have a lasting impact on your personal and career development.

5. Variety Each Year

• Reinvent your teaching approach
• Adapt to unique learning styles
• Keep the profession fresh and exciting

Every year, you’ll have the chance to reinvent your teaching approach as you meet new students and adapt to their unique learning styles. This constant change keeps the profession fresh and exciting as you refine your methods and explore innovative teaching techniques. You will be exposed yearly to a new group of young minds that can give you a new perspective and challenge you to grow in your career and personal life.

6. Summers Off

• Recharge, travel, pursue personal interests
• Earn additional income through summer jobs 
• Take professional development courses you don’t have time for during the school year

One of the most celebrated perks of being a teacher is having summers off. This much-needed break offers an opportunity to recharge, travel, pursue personal interests, or even earn additional income through summer jobs. Summers also allow you to refine your teaching skills by taking professional development courses you do not have time to take during the school year. If you are a parent, having the summer off will enable you to spend more quality time with your kids.

7. Lifelong Learning

• Deepen your expertise in your subject matter
• Stay current with advancements in pedagogy
• Grow professionally, and personally

Teachers are perpetual students. You’ll have the opportunity to deepen your expertise in your subject matter and stay current with advancements in pedagogy. By embracing the spirit of lifelong learning, you’ll grow professionally and personally. There is also so much opportunity to learn from your students. Being a teacher allows you to intake new perspectives daily from future generations.

8. Building Meaningful Relationships

• Connect with diverse individuals
• Form lasting support networks
• Experience professional growth, and deep personal satisfaction

Teaching offers a unique opportunity to connect with diverse individuals—students, parents, colleagues, and administrators. These meaningful relationships can provide lasting support networks, professional growth, and deep personal satisfaction. Every year offers a new opportunity to create a lasting bond.

9. Creative Expression

• Think outside the box to reach students
• Design engaging lesson plans
• Develop novel teaching strategies

Teachers are often required to think outside the box to reach their students. Whether designing engaging lesson plans or developing novel teaching strategies, the classroom is your canvas to express your creativity and passion for your subject matter. Hey, you may even inspire a student to pursue teaching or a career in your subject matter!

10. The Joy of Making a Difference

• Experience the indescribable joy of seeing students succeed
• Play an integral role in students’ achievements
• Make a tangible difference in the lives of others

There are few professions that afford the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Teaching is one of them. The benefits of becoming a teacher are limitless! As a teacher, you’ll experience the indescribable joy of seeing your students succeed, knowing you played an integral role in their achievements. Check out what some of our teachers say about the impact they have been able to make on student lives.

Becoming a teacher is a fulfilling, enriching, and impactful career choice. If you’re considering this path, rest assured that you’ll reap the rewards of personal growth, professional satisfaction, and the knowledge that you’ve made a lasting impact on the lives of your students.

Embrace Your Calling with iteach.net

Transform your passion into a fulfilling career with iteach.net, the premier platform for alternative teacher certification. Our streamlined process—Enroll. Train. Teach.—empowers you to become a certified educator quickly and affordably.

Don’t let your students wait any longer! Jumpstart your teaching journey today with full pay just weeks away. Apply now and embark on a life-changing adventure in education—it’s free to get started!

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