How to Become a Teacher in New York

Schools in New York offer competitive compensation and benefits for teachers, as well as the opportunity to be a part of a reformed and revitalized educational system. Recently revamped teacher preparation programs now align with K-12 student learning standards. All districts now offer professional development programs and mentoring support for new teachers.

New York has more than 3 million students in over 4,000 schools. With large and small cities, rural and suburban districts, New York offers diverse opportunities to teachers.

How to become a teacher in New York - traditional route for residents

Aspiring teachers in New York are offered two different available teaching certificates, the initial and the professional certificate. To earn these licenses, applicants must:

• Hold a bachelors degree in a related subject area
• Complete an approved teacher appreciation program
• Hold an institutional recommendation
• 6 semester hours of continuing education (professional certificate)

How to become a teacher in NY - alternative route for residents

New York has made a significant effort to attract highly competent people holding a current bachelors degree, but without teaching experience. Applicants may work in areas of need, completing 200 clock hours and 40 field hours, and passing both the Praxis I and the Praxis II. Once completed, applicants are considered certified teachers, and receive appropriate mentoring and supervision in their first two years in the classroom.

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

Students holding the following can apply for an initial teaching certificate:

• Hold an undisputed, valid teaching certificate from another state
• Completed teacher preparation program
• Bachelor degree from accredited regional college or university
• Two years of successful teaching experience

An applicant without a license, but having completed a teacher preparation course, may apply for a conditional initial certificate, which entitles them to teach for 2 years while they complete certification requirements.

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

All resident and out-of-state teachers applying to teach in New York must pass the Praxis I exam. Elementary school teachers must also pass the Praxis II, Elementary Core Subject test. Secondary teachers must pass the Praxis II in the subject area they wish to teach. All applicants may take Praxis II tests for endorsement purposes.

What bachelors degree do I need for teaching in New York?

Specific bachelor degrees are required for secondary teachers in New York, as teachers must be highly qualified in their subject area. Aspiring secondary teachers may also hold an Education degree in their desired subject area. Elementary school teachers may hold a Bachelor degree in any area including education.

What is a teacher preparation program in New York?

Teachers in New York can expect rigorous, intensive preparation in all areas of the classroom, from assessment to communications to lesson planning. The state of New York places value on high standards for both teachers and students, so ongoing advancement is necessary. In teacher preparation programs, students can expect to spend significant time observing other teachers, in student-teaching programs, and using critical thinking skills in the classroom.

How do I renew my teacher certification in New York?

The initial New York education certificate is valid for 2 years, and is renewable twice without additional credits or programming needs. In order to convert to a standard certificate, or renew a standard certificate, a teacher must:

• Complete 6 semester hours of renewal coursework at an accredited institution, or
• Complete of at least 2 years of teaching

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

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

• New York State Education Department

  This official site outlines essential teacher certification processes and requirements.

• New York Teaching Fellows

  This organization recruits teacher candidates specifically for jobs in New York City schools.