In order to teach in Louisiana, you’ll need to be licensed. Since teachers hold in their hands the future and safety of our youth, it’s important for these educators to have the proper training, skills and knowledge, and the steps to certification ensure this is the case. In Louisiana, the state’s department of education sets the standards for certification and oversees licensing practices. Learn the qualifications you need to enter the field of teaching in Louisiana and the levels of certification available.
Louisiana Teacher Certification Requirements
Louisiana Teacher Certification Types
In Louisiana there are three tiers of certification. The most basic tier is Level 1, with Levels 2 and 3 available by attaining additional education and experience.
Louisiana Teacher Education
Level 1 certification requires a bachelor’s degree and teaching education program. Completing an additional assistance and assessment program can earn access to Level 2 licensure.
Featured Schools
Master’s Degree Program
A master’s degree in combination with the requisite experience of 5 years is needed to obtain Level 3 certification in Louisiana.
Louisiana Teacher Certification Exam
Completion of the Praxis exams is required to obtain licensure in Louisiana.
Teacher Experience
In addition to education, it’s important to have 180 hours of experience in the field. Higher levels of certification require 3 years of teaching for level 2, and five years are required for Level 3 certification.
Background Check
Louisiana does not require background checks, though individual school districts may do so.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Louisiana Alternative Teacher Certification: Alternative licensure in Louisiana includes practitioner certification, alternate master’s degree certification, technical trade and industrial education and expedited paths to certification only.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Level 1 certificates can be renewed once after their initial three year period. Level 2 licensure is good for 5 years and requires 150 hours of professional development to renew. The same goes for level 3.
- Louisiana Substitute Teaching: Louisiana doesn’t have licensure for substitute teachers. Each school district is free to hire their own substitutes as they see fit.
- Reciprocity: Louisiana has limited reciprocity agreements. You can apply for a three-year out of state license while you complete state licensing requirements.
What Does a Teacher Do in Louisiana?
Teachers in Louisiana evaluate, improve, and create new curricula for delivery of educational programs. They write lesson plans. They set goals and benchmarks for delivery of content and evaluate student progress through exams, assignments, and hands-on learning experiences. They look for the signs of learning disabilities and behavioral problems, and stage interventions as necessary. If needed, they refer students with emotional or mental health issues to the appropriate services in conjunction with counselors and administration. They are responsible for the overall well-being and safety of the students in their classes.
Discover teacher certification programs in Louisiana that are a match for you!
Louisiana Teacher Salary
Louisiana is expected to see an average advancement in job openings for this field over the next seven years or so, which translates into about 100 new jobs in that period. The average earnings for teachers in the state is around $47,530 per year.
Louisiana Teacher Certification Links
- Louisiana Department of Education
- Teach Louisiana
- Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Teacher Certification Programs in Louisiana
Teacher Certification Programs in Louisiana
(It’s fast and free!)
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!