Pennsylvania prides itself on its superb teachers and strives to provide quality education to its students. Becoming a teacher means being willing to work hard and dedicate yourself to this endeavor. If you’re interested in becoming a teacher in the state of Pennsylvania, keep reading to learn about what steps you’ll need to take to get your teaching certification.
Pennsylvania Teacher Certification Requirements
Pennsylvania Teacher Certification Types
There are two levels of certification in Pennsylvania. The Level I Certification is issued to those who meet the initial examination and education requirements. The Level II Certification is issued to those who hold the Level I Certification and who have completed additional education and examination requirements. Within these levels are various types of certificates including the Instructional I Certificate, the Educational Specialist Certificate, the Administrative Certificate and Vocational Certificates.
Pennsylvania Teacher Education
Pennsylvania requires its teachers to have at least obtained a Bachelor’s Degree, preferably from a state-approved teacher certification preparation program, with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
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Pennsylvania Teacher Certification Exam
The tests you’ll be required to take may vary depending on the type of certification you’re applying for. In general, applicants must take the PAPA basic skills test, the Fundamental Subjects: Content Knowledge test, and the appropriate Praxis II content area test.
Teacher Experience
Your Pennsylvania certification preparation program requires that you complete a practicum and a student teaching experience.
Background Check
Pennsylvania requires those applying for a teaching certificate to submit to a criminal history background check.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Pennsylvania Alternative Teacher Certification: Pennsylvania offers two routes to obtaining an alternate certification for those who have at least a Bachelor’s Degree — the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence and the Teacher Intern Certification Programs.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Your Level I Certificate is valid for six years of service and is not renewable. After you’ve held it for three years, completed 24 post-baccalaureate credits and completed your district’s induction program, you may be eligible to upgrade to the permanent Level II Certificate.
- Pennsylvania Substitute Teaching: In order to be a substitute teacher in Pennsylvania, you must have a Bachelor’s Degree and hold an active or inactive Level I or II Certificate or an Emergency Permit
- Reciprocity: The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement allows qualified teachers from out-of-state to be certified to teach in Pennsylvania through reciprocity.
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What Does a Teacher Do in Pennsylvania?
Teachers in Pennsylvania are responsible for ensuring the welfare and education of the students in their classroom. Maintaining order in the classroom, rectifying behavioral issues, creating lesson plans and effectively delivering education material to students are just a few of the many responsibilities of a teacher. Your responsibilities extend to outside the classroom as well as you collaborate with your fellow instructors and communicate with the families of your students.
Pennsylvania Teacher Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides average annual salary information for teachers in the state of Pennsylvania. On average, elementary school teachers in the state earn $62,250 per year. Pennsylvania middle school teachers earn an average of $62,620 per year. High school teachers earn a yearly average of $64,320.
Pennsylvania Teacher Certification Links
Teacher Certification Programs in Pennsylvania
Teacher Certification Programs in Pennsylvania
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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!