If you’re looking for one of the most rewarding careers that there is in the state of Alabama, you should consider becoming a teacher. During the 2015-2016 school year, there were 46,349 teachers working in Alabama, and the state is always looking for more dedicated, compassionate educators.
Because being a teacher is such an important job for both the present and future of Alabama, the state has requirements for anyone seeking entry into this profession. Learning about these requirements should be your first step if you’re interested in becoming a teacher in Alabama.
Alabama Teacher Certification Requirements
Alabama Teacher Certification Types
There are three different certification types in Alabama (Class B, Class A and Class AA). Their main purpose is to delineate pay structure for Alabama teachers. In addition, each class has its own education requirements.
Alabama Teacher Education
Class B certification requires a Bachelor’s degree to teach elementary school and a Bachelor’s Degree plus a subject focus to teach at the secondary level or in Special Education classes. Class A requires Master’s degrees for all levels and a subject focus for secondary and special education teaching. Class AA requires a six year program for all levels and a subject focus for Special Education and secondary school.
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Alabama Teacher Certification Exam
Every teacher in Alabama must pass the Alabama Prospective Teacher Testing Program (APTTP). The test includes reading, math and writing. If you had a subject focus with your degree, you will also be tested on that focus.
Teacher Experience
Most teachers in Alabama will go through a teacher certification program. This program includes a practical teaching experience that you must complete before you can be hired as a teacher in this state.
Background Check
You will need to submit to an Alabama Bureau of Investigation (ABI) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background check.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Alabama Alternative Teacher Certification: Alabama has two alternate certifications. The first is the Special Alternative Certificate (SAC). This is for those enrolled in education programs who want to start teaching early. The other is the Alternative Baccalaureate Level Certification (ABC). The ABC is for those interested in teaching whose BA is not in education.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Certificates are valid for five years. To renew your certificate, you will need to complete three years of teaching experience and 50 hours of professional development, three years’ experience and three continuing education (CE) hours, 50 hours of professional development and three CE hours, six CE hours or receive certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
- Alabama Substitute Teaching: To substitute teach, you will need a recommendation from your future employer. You will also need to provide your high school transcripts and undergo a background check.
- Reciprocity: If you are licensed to teach in another state, you may be able to teach in Alabama if you can prove your credentials.
Discover teacher certification programs in Alabama that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in Alabama?
Teachers are responsible for many different tasks. They can teach a wide range of subjects or focus in one subject. Teachers may instruct in a group or in one-on-one settings. Other tasks teachers perform include writing lesson plans, evaluating their student’s abilities, grading papers, communicating with parents and providing supervision outside of the classroom.
Alabama Teacher Salary
Career information about the teaching profession in Alabama is maintained by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Your pay as a teacher in Alabama will depend on teaching discipline you decide to enter. An elementary school teacher in Alabama in 2015, for example, could expect to earn $49,120 per year. Secondary school teachers made slightly more during the same year, earning $50,060.
Alabama Teacher Certification Links
- Alabama State Department of Education
- Certification Page
- National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Teacher Certification Programs in Alabama
Teacher Certification Programs in Alabama
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Choose your area of study and receive free information about programs you are interested in. Becoming a teacher is an important decision that requires commitment, dedication, and passion. Teacher certification requirements vary by state. However, there are a number qualifications that every state requires to teach at the public school level. Request information from multiple schools to find the best program and educational opportunity for you!