Teacher certification is required in Virginia if you wish to teach in the K-12 public school system across the state. This certification is overseen and administered by the West Virginia Department of Education, which ensures that all those in charge of educating minors in the state are not only qualified and have the skills and knowledge to do so, but are ready for the challenges of educating the future of our nation.
Learn how to become a teacher in West Virginia, the preparation, education, skills, and qualifications you’ll need for licensure, and what it means to take part in this rewarding career.
West Virginia Teacher Certification Requirements
West Virginia Teacher Certification Types
There are three tiers of licensure in West Virginia. The first is the Professional Teaching Certificate, which advances to a Professional Five-Year Certificate. The ultimate level of certification is a Permanent Professional Teaching Certification.
West Virginia Teacher Education
The minimum education is a Bachelor’s degree which includes completing an approved program for educator prep, which is approved by the state.
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Master’s Degree Program
Though not required at first, a Master’s degree in teaching is required to eventually achieve your Permanent Professional Teaching Certification.
West Virginia Teacher Certification Exam
West Virginia uses the Praxis exam system—specifically, the Core Skills exam, the Subject Assessment exam, and the PLT exam.
Teacher Experience
After your initial license, you’ll need five years of experience before moving onto your Professional certification. Another five years is required for a Permanent certification.
Background Check
Criminal fingerprint background check clearances are required.
Alternative Certification and Other Requirements
- West Virginia Alternative Teacher Certification: Alternative certification methods in West Virginia include a career change transitional path, an alternative professional technical certificate, a temporary permit and a Troops to Teachers pathway for veterans.
- Teacher Certification Renewal: Your initial certification must be renewed after three years, or upgraded to a professional certificate, which requires six hours of CEUs as well as completing a beginning teacher internship program. After your five-year certificate is up, you’ll need to apply for a permanent certification.
- West Virginia Substitute Teaching: Substitute teachers are licensed in Virginia, but the process simply requires a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institute of higher learning with a minimum 2.0 GPA.
- Reciprocity: West Virginia provides limited reciprocity for those who hold out-of-state licensure, have completed equivalent educational requirements to the state’s requirements and have experience teaching.
Discover teacher certification programs in West Virginia that are a match for you!
What Does a Teacher Do in West Virginia?
Teachers spend most of their days designing, adapting, and delivering educational programs. They might do this by lecturing, which requires outstanding communication skills and public speaking. They might also be required to present hands-on experiential learning.
In addition, they need to assess student progress by assigning and grading homework, tests, and papers. They must tutor students in need of help and intervene in circumstances where students present behavioral problems or a need for services.
Finally, they attend meetings, oversee school functions, and advocate for the profession. This requires deep commitment and dedication as well as compassion, understanding, and sensitivity.
West Virginia Teacher Salary
The BLS sees the teaching field in West Virginia remaining fairly stable over the next decade or so, which will likely mean some competition for the available jobs. The annual mean salary for teachers in this state is around $45,870.
West Virginia Teacher Certification Links
- West Virginia Department of Education
- West Virginia Education Association
- Teach WV Teacher Preparation
Teacher Certification Programs in West Virginia
Teacher Certification Programs in West Virginia
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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!