How to Become a Teacher in Missouri

Like many states, Missouri has struggled with a difficult economy and a myriad of other challenges. Lawmakers, educators, and residents of Missouri feel very strongly for the necessities of improving schools and encouraging academic excellence. Though Missouri is a very diverse state in terms of politics, economic levels, rural and urban settings, and ethnic groups, it also has a sense of community that isn't found everywhere. With its renewed commitment to education, Missouri is emerging as a desirable state for educators to work in.

How to become a teacher in Missouri – traditional route for residents

An individual asking him or herself, "how do I become a teacher in Missouri?" might consider the traditional route to teacher certification in Missouri. In this program, a student completes a 4-year course of study at a college or university approved by the state of Missouri. This route must include student teaching and an exit exam, and end with a bachelor's degree. At that point, the student can apply for an initial teacher certificate in Missouri.

How to become a teacher in MO – alternative route for residents

For those with bachelor's degrees wondering how to become a teacher in Missouri, the first step is to attend an approved education program. If the person is enrolled in the program, he or she can teach under a provisional license—a two-year, temporary license that allows them to teach while taking certification classes.

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

If a teacher is certified in another state, and is wondering how to become a teacher in MO, they should begin by contacting DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education). They will then have to provide a copy of their license from their certifying state and apply for a Missouri license in its place.

How do I become a teacher in Missouri – necessary exams for residents

Like many states, Missouri requires its teachers to pass the Praxis I and II exams. Praxis I is a general competency test, and Praxis II tests the aspiring teacher in his or her content area.

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

All Missouri teachers must have a bachelor's degree. Those following the traditional route get a bachelor's in education and their subject area, while those following the alternative route get a bachelor's in their subject area and later acquire the education courses required for a teacher certificate in Missouri.

What is a teacher preparation program in Missouri?

A teacher preparation program in Missouri is an approved curriculum at a Missouri college or university, either as an initial bachelor's degree or as a training program in addition to a previously earned bachelor's degree.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Missouri?

Missouri teachers hoping to renew their teacher certification in Missouri must first demonstrate that they have fulfilled their professional development hours. These hours can be logged at teacher in-services or by taking courses at approved universities, but they must be documented before they can be approved.

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

• Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

  The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education web site has all the information a teacher needs about education in Missouri.

• MO Teaching Jobs

  This is the official listing of all public school teaching jobs in the state of Missouri.

• Missouri NEA

  This site offers support, guidance, and resources to teachers and others who care about education.