The requirements for becoming a teacher in Tennessee have just recently changed, and the changes affect some people who may still be in their educational programs (post September, 2015). Becoming a teacher in Tennessee means taking on a great responsibility—after all, you’re going to be teaching the next generation of innovators and world leaders. It is, however, an ultimately fulfilling job and one of the most important careers there is.
Tennessee Teacher Certification Requirements
Tennessee Teacher Certification Types
Like many states, Tennessee has tiered licensure. The levels in this state include the basic three-year Practitioner license, and the higher level Professional license.
Tennessee Teacher Education
A Bachelor’s degree and approved teacher’s prep program are required at minimum to gain practitioner licensure. You’ll need to build up 30 professional development Points (continuing education credits) to advance to the professional level.
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Master’s Degree Program
While a Master’s degree isn’t required, many teachers pursue it and it can certainly count towards your advancement to the professional level.
Tennessee Teacher Certification Exam
Tennessee uses the Praxis exams for certification. You will need to take the Core exam, the PLT exam, and Subject Assessments for any subjects in which you wish to teach.
Teacher Experience
Student teaching experience is part and parcel of your teacher prep course. Also, you’ll build up additional experience as you work on your PDPs for higher-level licensure.
Background Check
Fingerprints and both state and federal criminal checks are required before you can receive a teaching license in Tennessee.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- Tennessee Alternative Teacher Certification: Tennessee offers practitioner occupational education licensure for teachers who wish to teach vocational-technical areas.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Your practitioner license may be renewed once for an additional three years while you work on professional licensure. Professional licenses are good for five years and require building up 60 approved PDP credits.
- Tennessee Substitute Teaching: Licensure isn’t required by the state for subs in Tennessee, but individual school districts may set their own requirements.
- Reciprocity: To transfer an out of state teaching license you need to have Praxis exam scores, hold at least a bachelor’s degree and have proof of a teaching preparation program.
Discover teacher certification programs in Tennessee that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in Tennessee?
Teachers perform a broad range of organizational, management, and planning tasks. The job requires excellent communication skills and sensitivity to the needs of students who may have learning disabilities or emotional problems. Interpersonal skills are necessary for meetings with parents to discuss student progress and for collaboration with other teachers and staff. They must be detail-oriented and exceptionally organized to create, evaluate and adapt lesson plans as needed to deliver an optimal educational experience. Teaching also requires cultural sensitivity to teach in blended classrooms, and flexibility as you will spend many hours grading exams, attending meetings, and chaperoning school events.
Tennessee Teacher Salary
According to the BLS, Tennessee is a good state to pursue teaching. It’s expected to enjoy a 12% job growth through 2024, and teachers in this state make an average salary of around $49,470 annually, depending on the level of experience, geographic region, and areas of need.
Tennessee Teacher Certification Links
Teacher Certification Programs in Tennessee
Teacher Certification Programs in Tennessee
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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!