What steps do I need to follow to become an elementary school teacher? I hold a bachelor’s degree in history. Am I required to obtain a master’s degree, or can I simply pursue a teaching certificate to qualify for teaching at the elementary level?
Can someone explain what the process of obtaining a teaching certificate entails?
Additionally, if I decide later on to teach at the high school level, will I need to acquire a new teaching certificate, or does my current certification allow me to teach in both elementary and secondary schools?
To become an elementary school teacher with a bachelor’s degree in history, you’ll typically need to follow these steps:
Research State Requirements: Each state in the U.S. has specific requirements for becoming a teacher. Start by checking the requirements for the state where you plan to teach. Many states allow individuals with a bachelor’s degree to pursue a teaching credential.
Teaching Certificate: In most cases, you can obtain a teaching certificate without needing a master’s degree. You will need to enroll in a teacher preparation program, which could be part of a graduate program or a post-baccalaureate program. This program generally includes both coursework and student teaching experience.
Exams: You will likely need to pass a series of exams to obtain your teaching certificate. For example, many states require the Praxis exams or state-specific assessments focused on teaching skills and content knowledge.
Background Check: Be prepared to undergo a background check as part of the certification process.
Apply for Certification: Once you’ve completed your program and passed any required exams, you can apply for your teaching certificate through your state’s department of education.
Regarding your question about transitioning to high school teaching:
– If you wanted to teach high school later, you would typically need to obtain an additional endorsement or certification that qualifies you for secondary education. This often involves passing subject-area exams relevant to the high school courses you wish to teach. Requirements vary by state, so you should check the specific stipulations in your state.
Overall, starting with your elementary certification is a strong pathway, and you can explore options for high school certification later on if you decide to change your focus. Good luck on your journey to becoming a teacher!