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Become a New York State Teacher
Today's classrooms present teachers with more challenges and therefore demand a
deeper understanding of successful classroom practices. Dedication and a desire
to help children are important, but teachers also need a strong academic
background and solid professional preparation.
Whether you are a high school student exploring the possibility of entering
the teaching profession, a college student on his/her way to becoming a teacher
or a professional looking to change careers, below you will find the necessary
steps and websites that will guide you to become a teacher.
Chose a Pathway
There are traditional and non-traditional pathways to teacher Certification.
- Four- or five-year college degree programs in elementary education or
secondary education which lead to certification upon graduation. These
programs can vary greatly depending on individual university requirements.
- Post-collegiate programs for people who hold a bachelor's degree and wish
to enter the teaching field, generally for one year to obtain certification.
- Alternative licensing and certification programs in states where there is
a shortage of teachers in a particular field. These programs tend to be
short-term and intensive in order to get professionals into the classroom
quickly. (See below for more information about these programs.)
To explore educational institutions outside your state, the National Council
for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) publishes the Annual Guide to
Accredited Institutions that describes the institutions it accredits. Copies
are $15 each.
New York State Teacher Certification Requirements
Contact the New York State state Department of Education and ask for
information on requirements for certification (they should be able to mail you
an information packet).
New York State Teacher Certification Application
Upon completion of your New York State certification requirements, submit your
application for certification to the state. Usually, you can complete and
submit a form during the final semester of your program to your school, which
will prompt a record review and the school will then forward your application
to the state's department of education.
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