How to Become a Teacher in Nebraska

Nebraska is continuing to devote significant resources to teacher improvement and teacher salaries, so more and more graduates are interested in pursuing Nebraska teacher certification, a process designed to train and hire the best possible teachers.

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

A guide on how to become a teacher in Nebraska will begin by citing the Praxis I test, as it is required even for admission in to teacher preparation programs. Holding a bachelor's degree is also necessary. Once a student has completed the program, he or she must complete special human relations training and submit both transcripts and proof of in-class training.

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

Those wondering how to become in a teacher in NE will not find many alternative routes available to them. However, a candidate who has received a job offer from a Nebraska public school who has completed half of a teacher preparation program, three quarters of the requirements for an endorsement in his or her subject area, and the human relations training may submit a letter of intent and receive provisional teacher certification in Nebraska.

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

Out-of-state teachers asking themselves "how do I become a teacher in Nebraska?" should keep in mind Nebraska's special training requirements in mainstreaming and human relations. Some applicants will need to take university or college classes to address these requisites. Otherwise, so long as a candidate can demonstrate that they have passed the necessary exams, prove that he or she holds a valid license in another state, and show they have classroom experience, he or she will generally qualify for teaching in Nebraska.

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

Information on how to become in a teacher in NE is available at the education testing services website, as the Praxis I exam is required for entry into Nebraska teacher preparation programs. Elementary-school teachers must pass the Elementary Education: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment test to qualify for a teacher certificate in Nebraska.

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

In discovering how to become a teacher in Nebraska, applicants will generally find that they need only hold a bachelor's degree in a subject related to arts and sciences, though it is generally preferred that a secondary teacher hold a baccalaureate degree in an area they wish to teach in. However, teaching in Nebraska also requires that candidates receive an endorsement in their specialization area.

What is a teacher preparation program in Nebraska?

Teacher certification in Nebraska requires students to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, which typically includes two guided field experiences in public schools and significant student-teaching experience in a local public school. Individuals must also complete courses studying contemporary issues in education and communication skills.

How do I renew my teacher certification in Nebraska?

Individuals who are looking to renew their teacher certificate in Nebraska will need to keep in mind the credit hour requirements. Most teachers must complete six hours in their endorsement area, in such specialties such as educational psychology, teaching, education, or child, youth, and family studies. Those whose certificates have been expired more than five years must prove fifteen credit hours, including a course in contemporary education issues and a course in instructional techniques.

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

Anyone asking him or herself "how do I become a teacher in Nebraska?" should consult several websites for information, including:

• University of Nebraska - Department of Education

  Anyone wondering how to become in a teacher in NE will, at some point, need to consult a state university's website for information on teacher preparation programs, credit hours for renewal, and exam preparation.

• Nebraska Department of Education

  The Nebraska Department of Education's website is the most authoritative site offering information on how to become a teacher in Nebraska, citing detailed requirements for all types of teacher licenses.