How to Become a Teacher in Illinois

Bustling cities, beautiful rural landscapes, strong education support, and excellent teacher benefits make many wonder how to become a teacher in Illinois. Teachers in Illinois must earn an Initial Teacher Certificate to begin teaching in public school, which can be earned through both traditional programs and computer-based alternatives.

How to become a teacher in Illinois - the traditional route for residents

While Illinois has a three-tier system of certification, the first teacher certificate in Illinois obtained is the Initial Education Certificate. Through traditional methods, this license can be obtained through:

• Earning a bachelor's degree from a State-approved university
• Appropriate testing through the Illinois Certification Testing System
• Completing an accredited teacher preparation program.

How to become a teacher in IL - the alternative route for residents

While most teachers in Illinois follow a traditional route to teacher certification, alternatives do exist, including the Alternative Routes to Teaching program, which assists new teachers in earning their first credential for teaching in Illinois, and experienced teachers in earning new endorsements. While programs are specific to school districts and their needs, the general requirements for a teacher certificate in Illinois are:

• Earn a bachelor's degree from an approved State college or university
• Be accepted to and working in an approved teacher certification program
• Be interested in working in an area of education that is underserved

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

Illinois welcomes teachers from other states. Out-of-State teachers who hold a current, valid teaching license will be granted a 3-year Standard Education Certificate while completing all background investigations, testing, and other requirements as needed. Once completed, the applicant may apply for a 5-year certificate.

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

Students must pass appropriate exams to be considered for a teaching position in Illinois. All aspiring teachers must pass the Assessment of Professional Teaching through the Illinois Certification Testing System. Subject-specific tests are also available through ICTS for endorsement purposes.

What bachelor's degree do I need for teaching in Illinois?

While no specific bachelor's degrees are required to teach in Illinois, most students major either in education, or in the subject area they will teach (secondary teachers). Many colleges in Illinois also specialize in offering a combination of education courses and subject-specific courses, such as math education or science education. This can be an excellent option for students who plan on teaching secondary education.

What are the teacher preparation programs in Illinois?

Teacher preparation courses on how to become a teacher in Illinois explore the following topics:

• Teaching fundamentals courses, which involve assessment, planning, and State standards
• Classroom Management
• Student Teaching
• Classroom Observation

How do I renew my teacher certification in Illinois?

All teaching certificates in Illinois have 5-year renewals. Teachers must complete a minimum of 6 professional development credits to renew their certification. This can include university hours, in-service trainings, or school governance programs.

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

For those still asking, "How do I become a teacher in Illinois?" the following websites have additional information about how to become a teacher in Illinois:

• Illinois State Board of Education

  This official site outlines all areas of teaching certification within the state of Illinois, plus other information relating to Illinois education.

• Illinois Certification Testing System

  This is the official testing site for Illinois educators.