How to Become a Teacher in Tennessee

The state of Tennessee has recently been making concentrated efforts to improve its education programs statewide and train and attract better teachers. While seeking details about how to become a teacher in Tennessee, it is important for the candidate to consider their traditional and non-traditional options. The state often offers individuals with an interest in teacher certification the chance to find employment more quickly if they meet certain requirements.

How to become a teacher in Tennessee - traditional route for residents

The Department of Education dictates in their articles on how to become a teacher in Tennessee that a prospective teacher must fulfill three steps: first, candidates must complete a state-approved teacher preparation program in order to earn a teacher certificate in Tennessee. Upon completion of the program, he or she must seek the recommendation for licensure by the Dean of Education. Finally, a student must pass the necessary exams to become in a teacher in TN. Traditional resident candidates must achieve satisfactory marks on both the Praxis I and the Praxis II exams.

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

Non-traditional applicants who may not need to complete standard teaching training may want to consider their eligibility for other programs. For example, second-career individuals transitioning to careers as math and science teachers may be able to bypass completing a complete teacher preparation program by participating in the Teach Tennessee program.

Those who hold bachelor's or master's degrees in the area they intend to teach and can demonstrate some teaching experience may be able to earn an exemption from a teacher preparation program, given that they pass the necessary examinations.

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

In order to earn a teaching certificate in Tennessee, an out-of-state teacher must submit an application containing their official college transcripts, a copy of their teaching credentials, and proof of experience. In some cases, candidates may need to take the Praxis tests. Authoritative sites can explain who must take these exams in more detail, as it is usually handled on a case-by-case basis.

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

The ETS provides details about how to become in a teacher in TN, specifically that, before teaching in Tennessee, future teachers must complete the Praxis I and the Praxis II exams. The Praxis I is a pre-professional skills test, mandated for all potential educators. The Praxis II contains a Principles of Learning and Teaching segment and multiple subject tests related to a potential teaching career

What bachelors degree do I need for teaching in Tennessee?

Teachers are only required to have a bachelor's degree, and the specific major or concentration is not always important to enter a teacher training program, but those who earn a degree in an area relative to the subject they are wishing to teach may be able to bypass the teacher preparation program and take a non-traditional route to certification.

What are teacher preparation programs in Tennessee?

A Tennessee state Teacher Preparation Program involves seminar work related to one's area of interested and student-teaching placement. These programs are often available at local or online colleges.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Tennessee?

Renewing a teaching license in Tennessee involves going through a milder version of the initial certification process. Renewing a professional teaching license requires that students who have not earned a master's degree or who do not have five years of teaching experience concretely demonstrate that they are pursuing professional development.

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

When asking oneself the question "how do I become a teacher in Tennessee?" it is important to research a variety of sites to get all of the necessary information. In addition to the websites for universities and colleges offering preparation programs in Tennessee, prospective candidates for teacher certification in Tennessee should also consult the following websites:

• Tennessee Department of Education

  The official website Tennessee Department of Education website contains all necessary forms and information about application and certification. Prospective teachers can also find information on teaching standards, sign up for teaching exams, and research more about alternative certification methods.

• Educational Testing Services (ETS)

  The Educational Testing Services website offers detailed explanations of the exams candidates must pass and how they apply for them.