If you’re interested in a career as a teacher, there is almost no better state to work than New York. In addition to compensating their teachers much more competitively than almost every other state, New York provides a tremendous amount of job access. However, before you can start working as a teacher in New York, there are very specific qualifications you must meet and requirements you must fulfill.
Researching the steps for earning a teaching licensure is a good starting point if you’re considering becoming a teacher in the state of New York.
New York Teacher Certification Requirements
New York Teacher Certification Types
New York provides multiple licensing levels. The license you apply for will depend on your experience and qualifications. The initial license is for new teachers. The professional license is the next license level and is earned after professional development. The provisional license is for paraprofessionals. The permanent license is the most advanced license level and lasts for life.
New York Teacher Education
A Bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement to receive a teaching license in the state of New York. In addition, you must complete a teacher preparation program.
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New York Teacher Certification Exam
Three exams are required for licensure in New York. The two basic exams are the New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE) Liberal Arts and Sciences Test and the Assessment of Teaching Skills Written Exam. You will also need to pass the NYSTCE Content Specialty Test in the area where you are seeking certification.
Teacher Experience
New York teachers must complete both an observation based practicum and a student teaching internship before licensure. The length of your student teaching assignment will depend on your certification field.
Background Check
A background check is required to receive a teaching license. You must fill out and submit an Authorization to Forward Criminal History to both the NYCBOE and the NYSED. You also need to send fingerprint cards to the FBI.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- New York Alternative Teacher Certification: New York has two alternative certifications. Transitional B is for those with undergraduate degrees. Transitional C is for those with graduate degrees.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Once you have an Initial license, you must earn your Professional license within five years. This requires mentoring and two years of teaching experience. Your professional license will last in perpetuity as long as you abide by professional standards, which includes achieving 175 continuing education hours every five years.
- New York Substitute Teaching: Your ability to substitute teach in New York depends on the school district. Some, but not all, districts require certificates to substitute teach.
- Reciprocity: New York will provide teaching licenses to teachers who are licensed in a NASDTEC member state.
Discover teacher certification programs in New York that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in New York?
Being a successful teacher means competing several important tasks. For instance, you need to develop lesson plans that will allow you to provide your students effective instruction. Another common task for New York teachers is to work with school administrators to create a better educational environment. You will also need to regularly assess your students and help them make adjustments as necessary.
New York Teacher Salary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that New York offers Elementary School teachers the second highest pay in the country. In 2015, Elementary level teachers made a median annual pay of $77,330. Middle School and High School teachers also have access to competitive salaries, earning $78,060 and $81,410 in 2015, respectively.
New York Teacher Certification Links
- New York State Teacher Certification Examinations
- New York State Teaching Initiatives
- TEACH Online Application System
Teacher Certification Programs in New York
Teacher Certification Programs in New York
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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!