Qualify for Certification

Posted by rajajang

February 29, 2008

Finding a job should be on your mind well before you finish your degree program. A big factor in finding a job is how you were prepared as a teacher. Where you were trained can affect the ease of getting a teaching license, and thus, a job with a public school. If you are interested in private schools, it’s still not a bad idea to obtain a teaching certificate.

1. Narrow the Search by Selecting a State

Each state has specific requirements for licensing teachers. If you’re planning on teaching in the same state of your degree program, you course work is prepared. However, if you’re planning on teaching in a different state, it’s important to check the state requirements. There might an extra course you can go ahead and take to make sure you meet the criteria.

2. Register for Exams

Some states require that you take exams to prove competency in your teaching field for certification. These tests may not be offered weekly, or even monthly, so prepare and register for tests in advance. Receiving scores can take up to six weeks, so leave enough time for scores to be communicated to state agencies to meet certification deadlines.

3. Apply for State Certification

If you meet all the requirements or are in process of meeting them, go ahead and fill out the necessary paperwork and get your file started in the certification process. Check on the status of your file often to make sure that tests scores and transcripts have been sent and added to your file. It’s a good idea to do this in the months before seeking a job. If you are applying for a public school job, the system will be able to see you have applied and are awaiting certification. It is easier for employers to offer jobs to teachers who are filling out the appropriate paperwork. Some states offer conditional certificates for one year while you make arrangements to meet the requirements of the state. If you already hold a certificate in another state, check for reciprocity. Once you get a certificate, it’s not over. Certificates must be renewed every few years depending on the state’s guidelines.

4. Resume Preparation

Applications will need to be filled out to become a teacher, but many employers will want to have a resume to glance over your history. Prepare a resume to use at job fairs and interviews with so many Career Center online.

Return to 10 Steps to Becoming a Teacher

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