Few careers are more important in the state of Ohio than teaching. As with all states, Ohio relies on qualified, highly trained teachers to provide instruction to the state’s students and to assist them throughout their academic career. Because teaching is such a vital career for the Buckeye State, Ohio has many requirements for those seeking entry to the teaching profession.
If you’re one of the many people interested in becoming a teacher in Ohio, then you should closely examine the certification requirements in this state and what level of education you’ll need to find employment in an Ohio school.
Ohio Teacher Certification Requirements
Ohio Teacher Certification Types
Four licensing levels are offered by the Ohio Department of Education. The initial license is known as the Four-Year Resident Educator License. If you meet certain requirements, this will transition to a Five-Year Professional License. With 9 years of experience and a graduate degree, you can earn a Senior Professional License. The last level is the Lead Professional License.
Ohio Teacher Education
Before your initial license, you will need at least a Bachelor’s degree. Many aspiring Ohio teachers enroll in a teacher preparation program that awards a degree at the program’s completion.
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Ohio Teacher Certification Exam
There are three exams required for Ohio teachers. The first is the Praxis I basic competency exam. The second is the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching exam for your chosen grade level. The third is the Praxis II exam for whichever subject you are seeking licensure.
Teacher Experience
Entry-level Ohio teachers will need to complete a teacher preparation program that includes a student teaching component. Student teaching will provide you with the hands-on experience you need to start your teaching career. You will also need to complete certain experience requirements for advanced certification.
Background Check
You must submit to a background check by both the FBI and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation before receiving your first teaching license.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Ohio Alternative Teacher Certification: Alternative educator licenses are available in certain subjects between grades four and 12. To earn one of these licenses, you will need to pass the Praxis II subject exam and submit to a background check.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Your Professional License expires after five years. If you wish to renew your license instead of pursuing an advanced certification, you will need either complete 6 semester hours of credit dedicated to teaching or 18 continuing education hours approved by the Local Professional Development Committee.
- Ohio Substitute Teaching: Ohio requires substitute teachers to acquire a Substitute License. Short-term license requires only a Bachelor’s degree. Long-term licenses require a degree and additional education hours.
- Reciprocity: Ohio allows teachers who have received a license in another state to receive an Ohio license with proof of credentials.
Discover teacher certification programs in Ohio that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in Ohio?
Once licensed to teach in Ohio, there will be many tasks that you will have to perform. Firstly, you will need to develop lesson plans and provide instruction to your students. Secondly, you will need to collaborate with both other teachers and school administrators. Finally, you will need to evaluate your students and report the results of these evaluations to their parents.
Ohio Teacher Salary
The simplest method for learning about your potential salary as an Ohio teacher is to examine the data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to the most recent BLS report published in 2015, Elementary School teachers in Ohio could expect to earn a median salary of $59,000. In the same report, the salary for a Middle School teacher was $58,580 and the salary for a High School teacher was $59,610.
Ohio Teacher Certification Links
Teacher Certification Programs in Ohio
Teacher Certification Programs in Ohio
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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!