How to Become a Teacher in Kansas

Those asking the question "how do I become a teacher in Kansas?" will find several clear avenues available for them. Kansas has been a leader in pursuing alternative teacher approval methods for the sake of improving teacher quality and performance in relation to the No Child Left Behind Act. Information on how to become a teacher in Kansas is available online.

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

Residents of Kansas who want to become teachers generally take these steps:

• First earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
• Enter a state-approved teacher preparation program, either the general elementary school program or a more focused program on a chosen subject for teaching at the middle or high school level
• Pass a related content test, as well as a pedagogy exam.

After successfully completing the relative program, candidates who are interested in earning teacher certification in Kansas must submit to a fingerprint background clearance.

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

Those who have completed a term in the Peace Corps or similar program who are interested in becoming a teacher in Kansas can enter a fast-track course to licensure by passing the appropriate tests and demonstrating teaching experience. Select students may be recruited to fast-track programs that provide in-class practice and teacher training simultaneously.

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

Out-of-state teachers who are seeking information about how to become in a teacher in Kansas can consult the State Board of Education for information. Required documentation includes proof that they have completed a bachelor's degree and teacher preparation program and earned a license in another state. Venues offering information about becoming a Kansas state teacher for out-of-state residents will also mention that students are required to demonstrate "recency," which means that a candidate has either teaching experience or credit hour training within six years prior to the time of application.

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

Candidates seeking to become a teacher in Kansas will find that only a small number of exams are required for teacher licensure. Under the No Child Left Behind Act, Kansas teachers must earn a National Board Certificate, or demonstrate proficiency and competence by scoring at least 100 points on the Kansas Rubric, which evaluates teacher experience, coursework, and professional development.

What bachelors degree do I need for teaching in Kansas?

No specific degree is required to become a teacher in KS or to enroll in a teaching certification program. However, many future teachers major in subjects such as education or child psychology, while individuals planning on teaching at the middle school and high school level often pursue a degree in the subject they plan on teaching. For example, a future high school science teacher may major in biology or chemistry. Websites that offer information on how to become a teacher in Kansas suggest that a bachelor's degree in an area related to the future subject of instruction may be required for admission into teacher preparation programs.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Kansas?

Those who seek to renew their teacher certificate in Kansas will need to specify whether they hold a 3-year certificate or a 5-year professional license, and which type they are seeking at the time of renewal.

If a candidate is seeking to renew a 3-year certificate for the purpose of teaching in Kansas, a teacher must demonstrate one year of active in-classroom experience and 6-8 credit hours of college coursework. If he or she is attempting to jump from a 3-year certificate to a 5-year certificate, two years of experience must be proven. In order to simply renew a 5-year certificate, one must show proof of 6-8 college credit hours.

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

Those interested in learning about how to become in a teacher in KS should visit the following sites for the most accurate information:

• Kansas State Department of Education

  The Kansas State Department of Education website is the most authoritative site to visit when looking for information on how to become a teacher in Kansas. Students who are pursuing teaching in Kansas will find information on where to apply for teacher certification programs.

• Kansas National Education Association

  The official website of the Kansas National Education Association can provide helpful information on how to become in a teacher in KS, specifically in terms of alternative paths to teacher certification in Kansas. It will also offer up-to-date explanations about how to become in a teacher in KS as standards and requirements may change.