Teaching in Oregon is a great opportunity for anyone with a passion for learning, instruction, and making a difference in children’s lives. As a teacher, you will continually have the opportunity to grow and learn as an individual, while at the same time helping your young students to succeed and thrive. If you’re interested in becoming a teacher in Oregon, take a look at the steps you’ll need to take to obtain your license.
Oregon Teacher Certification Requirements
Oregon Teacher Certification Types
Oregon offers multiple types of teaching licenses. The three main ones are the Initial I Teaching License for those who have completed a degree and a teacher preparation program, the Initial II Teaching License for those who qualify for the Initial I License and also have a master’s degree and the Continuing Teaching License for those who qualify for the Initial I and II Licenses, have five years of teaching experience and who have completed additional training. View the complete list of the types of teaching licenses Oregon offers.
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Oregon Teacher Education
Oregon requires its teachers to have at least a Bachelor’s Degree and to have completed a state-approved teacher preparation program.
Oregon Teacher Certification Exam
Depending on your specific teacher preparation program, you will be required to take either the Praxis I Basic Skills exam or the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). Most programs also require you to pass a content area exam, which will either be the Praxis II content exam or an Oregon Educator Licensure Assessment (OELA) exam.
Teacher Experience
Your Oregon teachers’ preparation program includes your participation in a practicum and a student teaching experience.
Background Check
Those applying for a teaching license in Oregon must submit fingerprints for a criminal history background check.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Oregon Alternative Teacher Certification: Oregon offers three types of alternate teaching licenses — the Three-Year Professional License, the Restricted Transitional License and the Limited License.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: You may renew your Initial I License up to 90 days prior to its expiration and after you complete three semester graduate hours in education. You can choose to upgrade to the Initial II or the Continuing License instead if you meet the qualifications.
- Oregon Substitute Teaching: Oregon issues Restricted Substitute Teaching Licenses that are valid for three years to those who have both a Bachelor’s Degree and a First Aid card.
- Reciprocity: You can obtain a Transitional Teaching Certification in Oregon through reciprocity if you are an out-of-state teacher who has completed an appropriate teacher preparation program.
Discover teacher certification programs in Oregon that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in Oregon?
Teachers in Oregon strive to always keep their students’ best interests at heart as they mentor and teach in the classroom. Teachers are expected to help their students succeed in any way they can by making appropriate lesson plans, effectively teaching the coursework and recognizing students’ strengths. Teachers are also expected to work closely with other teachers, as well as to engage the families of the students.
Oregon Teacher Salary
As a state that prides itself on its educational opportunities, Oregon puts great value in its teachers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, elementary school teachers in Oregon earn a yearly average of $63,390. Middle school teachers earn a yearly average of $66,480. Oregon high school teachers earn a yearly average of $66,010.
Oregon Teacher Certification Links
Teacher Certification Programs in Oregon
Teacher Certification Programs in Oregon
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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!