Thread: How to become a teacher?

Sometimes districts have programs for people like you. I know of one at a district in Maryland--people interested in a career change study for a year towards their certificate and then become a teacher. Usually teaching requires that you have your masters (takes about a year), you have to take the proxis exam, and then submit the paper work for a certificate. The best thing to do is look at school districts on the web to see if they have a program for you (or your local university might have some help for you). A lot of people make career changes into teaching, so good luck!

I am in the same boat (i.e. changing careers and becoming a teacher). I called my state's dept. of education and they sent me a bunch of information about alternative ways to become a teacher. I also called the education depts. of several universities here and talked to them about what programs they have for those who want to teach but have non-education undergrad degrees. I found a really great program that will pay for my masters degree in education while working fulltime as a teacher. Hope this helps you.

Meisalas, college and elementary are two very different areas. Teaching is a big change from other professions. One thing that may help you a lot would be to volunteer in area schools and/or be a substitute teacher. That will give you some in-class experience. It will also let you know if you like the younger age or not. Not all areas require a MA to teach below the college level, but they will require state licensure. The requirements vary. It's a big leap, but if you love it then it is worth it. Good Luck.