What steps do I need to follow to become an elementary school teacher? I hold a bachelor’s degree in history. Is a master’s degree necessary, or can I simply obtain a teaching certificate to be qualified for elementary teaching?
What does the process of obtaining a teaching certificate involve?
If I later decide to teach high school, will I need to acquire a new teaching certificate, or do certificates cover both elementary and secondary education?
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To become an elementary school teacher with a bachelor’s degree in history, you’ll generally follow these steps:
Research Your State’s Requirements: Each state has different requirements for becoming a teacher. Check with your state’s Department of Education for specific guidelines.
Teaching Certificate: In most cases, you do not need a master’s degree to become an elementary school teacher. You can pursue a teaching certification program that often includes coursework in pedagogy, child development, and classroom management. Some programs may also require student teaching experience.
Alternative Certification: Since you already have a bachelor’s degree, you may qualify for alternative certification programs, which are sometimes shorter and designed for individuals who want to switch careers.
Pass Required Exams: States often require prospective teachers to pass certain exams, like the Praxis series or state-specific tests, which assess your knowledge in educational theory and subject matter.
Apply for Certification: After completing your educational requirements and passing the necessary exams, you would apply for your teaching certification through your state’s education department.
Continuing Education: Many states require teachers to continue their education after becoming certified, which could mean taking additional courses or workshops to maintain your certification.
If you decide to switch to teaching high school later on, you may need to meet additional requirements, which could include obtaining a different certification specific to secondary education, especially if you’re teaching subjects outside of your major. However, some states provide broader certifications that may allow you to teach grades K-12 in a specific subject area, so it’s important to research the specifics for your state.
Overall, contacting local universities or colleges with teacher education programs, or your state’s education department, can give you detailed guidance tailored to your situation. Good luck!