How to Become a Teacher in Alaska

Beyond the natural beauty and rugged scenery, the state of Alaska offers generous teacher salaries and unique education opportunities. There are many paths in the pursuit of a teaching career in Alaska, which boasts some of the best teaching benefits for educators in the country.

The Alaska Department of Education requires teachers hold one of three different credentials, keep their teaching license updated, and show ongoing learning to keep current on education trends.

How to become a teacher in Alaska - the initial teaching certificate

Teachers new to the industry, or those in an accredited teaching program, may apply for an initial teaching certificate. In order for approval, an applicant must complete the following:

• A bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited school
• A teacher preparation program or current enrollment in a teacher preparation program, which must be completed within 2 years
• Pass scores on the Praxis I test
• Background check

How to become a teacher in Alaska - the professional teacher certification

When a teacher has completed the requirements for an initial teacher certificate, or has taught in Alaska for three years, they may apply for a professional teacher certification. To qualify, the teacher must:

• Hold an initial teaching certificate
• Complete a teacher preparation program
• Complete Alaska studies and multicultural studies programs
• Be currently employed in Alaska public schools
• Receive a passing score on competency exam

How to become a teacher in Alaska - the master teacher certification

Applicants who wish to achieve the master teacher certification must:

• Earn national board certification
• Meet requirements for professional certification, and hold an initial or professional certificates

How to become a teacher in Alaska - for out-of-state teacher applicants

To teach in Alaska, out-of-state teaching applicants must:

• Hold a current, valid teaching credential from another US state
• Must pass an approved competency test
• During the duration of the initial teacher certification, the applicant must complete Alaska studies and multicultural studies programs.

How do I become a teacher in Alaska - necessary exams for residents

To earn certification to teach in Alaska, students must earn a passing grade on one of the following tests in the areas of reading, writing and mathematics:

• Praxis I
• CBEST
• West B
• Out-of-state residents should contact their department of education for an approved competency test.

What bachelors degree do I need for teaching in Alaska?

Students pursuing teaching credentials in Alaska may choose to major in any subject for their undergraduate degree. However, many students choose to major in education, early childhood development, psychology, or a related field. Many students choose to minor in an area of particular interest to them, such as art, history, or English.

Individuals pursuing middle to high school teaching credentials should major in education or the subject area they wish to teach, such as science, math or history.

What is a teacher preparation program in Alaska?

Teaching programs in Alaska are designed to develop students into culturally competent educators with strong skills in every aspect of teaching. Preparation programs consist of subject-specific courses, classroom management courses, and field work in local classrooms. In addition, students must complete specifically approved Alaska studies courses and general multicultural courses.

In addition, students must complete a one-year teaching internship in a public school classroom.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Alaska?

In Alaska, an initial teacher certificate lasts for 3 years, and is not renewable. To reinstate a 5-year certificate, an applicant must complete the following:

• 6 semester or 9 quarter hour credits from a regionally accredited university.
• Transcripts from all undergraduate and postgraduate work
• Employment verification
• Fingerprint cards

Where do I go for more information about how to become a teacher in Alaska?

The following websites have additional information about how to become a teacher in Alaska:

• Alaska State Department of Education and Early Development

  This site outlines all requirements for teacher certification in Alaska.

• Professional Teaching Practices Commission

  Teachers in Alaska need to have their certification renewed every 5 years. This site outlines education courses for teachers that fulfill renewal requirements.