How to become a teacher in Texas
Teaching can be a rewarding career. You'll shape tomorrow's minds and have the opportunity to be a critical part of your community. However, every state has its own criteria for certifying and hiring teachers. Here's what you need to know to become a teacher in Texas.
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What to expect as a teacher in Texas
Teachers take on various responsibilities depending on the type of school, grade, and subject they teach. Some teachers can further specialize their skills to work with specific types of students, like special education or English as a second language, or work in a specific subject, like art or physical education.
According to CareerOneStop, elementary school teachers in Texas made a median salary of $63,670 in 2023. In secondary education, teachers in Texas made a 2023 median salary of $64,010.
Steps to become a teacher in Texas
Here are the steps to earn your certification to teach in Texas.
Step 1: Enroll in a bachelor's degree
Classroom teachers require a bachelor's degree in an appropriate field. Your degree should align with the subject or grade level you intend to teach.
For example, if you want to be a first-grade teacher, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education. If you aspire to teach high school math, you'll need a bachelor's degree in education with a specialization in mathematics or a degree in mathematics supplemented by teaching credentials.
Your education degree must be awarded by an institution with accreditation from an accrediting body recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
Step 2: Finish an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
Enroll in an EPP approved by the state of Texas. There, you'll receive training and coursework for teaching in the classroom. Part of the process includes field experience like observation and student teaching. The program will also help prepare you to sit for certification exams.
For many students, the EPP is part of earning a bachelor's degree in education. However, if you already have a degree in something other than education, you can choose an alternative certification program or a post-baccalaureate option.
Step 3: Pass Texas state certification exams
Once you finish your degree and EPP, you'll need to complete the required Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) for your chosen subject and grade level. These certification exams demonstrate your mastery of your subject or teaching specialty. You'll need to contact your EEP to get approval to sit for the exam.
Step 4: Apply for state certification
Once you've completed your bachelor's degree and EPP, and have passed all your required certifications in your area of expertise, you can apply to the state for official certification. Make sure to send in all records of your education and successful exams. Your EEP can help you verify that you are eligible for this step.
Step 5: Complete fingerprinting
Fingerprinting is part of the national background check, and all Texas teachers must complete this step before entering the classroom. This is the final piece to becoming a certified teacher in the state.
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