There are many important careers in the state of Arkansas. However, the one that is most closely tied to the state’s long-term success is teaching. Teachers in Arkansas help prepare their students for the future through instruction and guidance. As Arkansas implements Common Core educational standards, having qualified, well-trained teachers become even more important.
Because teaching is such a vital job in Arkansas, the state possesses many requirements for people seeking entry into this field. If you’re interested in becoming an Arkansas teacher, you need to learn about some of the basic certification requirements, including passing exams and earning a Bachelor’s degree.
Arkansas Teacher Certification Requirements
Arkansas Teacher Certification Types
Arkansas licenses teachers at many different educational levels. These levels include Early Childhood, Preschool/Adolescence, Preschool/Young Adulthood, Middle School and Adolescence/Young Adulthood. You can also add a specialized licensure to improve your career opportunities.
Arkansas Teacher Education
Arkansas teachers are required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Education at a minimum. It is also possible to gain a teaching license through an Alternate Route Master’s Degree Program. Whichever educational path you choose, your degree must come from an institution approved by the Arkansas Department of Education.
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Arkansas Teacher Certification Exam
Before your initial licensure, you will need to pass the Praxis I exam in reading, writing, and math. You will also need to pass the Praxis II exam in whatever educational discipline you are choosing. Teachers who wish to teach Early Childhood Education, Middle School, or High School must take a three-credit class in Arkansas history. Passing the Praxis III test will earn your Standard Teaching License.
Teacher Experience
During your teacher preparation program, you will gain teaching experience in a real-world setting. The experience portion of your program can last anywhere between twelve weeks and an entire school year. Teachers with initial licenses will be mentored by a fully licensed teacher for a year.
Background Check
Before being licensed, prospective Arkansas teachers will need to submit to and pass a background check.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Alabama Alternative Teacher Certification: Arkansas offers a Non-Traditional Licensure Program (NTLP). You can become eligible for the NTLP with a Bachelor’s degree in any subject and a 2.5 GPA. Additional education may also be required if you want to enter certain teaching fields.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: An Arkansas Standard Teaching License lasts for five years. To renew your license, you will need 60 hours of professional development, be employed as a teacher in Arkansas, pass a background check and pay a $100 fee.
- Arkansas Substitute Teaching: Traditional substitute teachers in Arkansas do not need a permit. If you are a professional substitute, you can earn the Professional Teaching Permit with a Bachelor’s degree and forty hours of training.
- Reciprocity: Teachers previously licensed in another state can become licensed in Arkansas through reciprocity.
Discover teacher certification programs in Arkansas that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in Arkansas?
Arkansas teachers must perform multiple important tasks in addition to their regular instruction duties. Some of these tasks can include developing a curriculum or lesson plan, intervening with misbehaving students, effectively managing your classroom, preparing students for standardized testing and working with school administrators.
Arkansas Teacher Salary
If you’re interested in learning about your salary as an Arkansas teacher, your best resource is the career report issued by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The pay for an Arkansas Elementary School teacher in 2015 according to the BLS was $46,950. In the same 2015 report, the BLS estimated Middle School teachers made $48,580 and High School Teachers earned $49,780.
Arkansas Teacher Certification Links
Teacher Certification Programs in Arkansas
Teacher Certification Programs in Arkansas
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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!