how to get a teaching certificate in Florida

A Step by Step Guide on How to Get a Teaching Certificate in Florida

Education

Do you know what makes teaching worth it?

For some, it’s the look on a student’s face when they finally understand a lesson. For others, it’s the knowledge that they’re shaping a better future for the kids they’re teaching.

Some educators also feel gratified when they see their kids helping others, whether it’s academically or socially. All in all, there are many reasons why becoming a teacher is rewarding. So if you’re determined to be one, you should know the paths available to you.

That being said, let’s talk about how to get a teaching certificate in Florida, including some tips on how to land your dream job at your preferred school.

The Basics of How to Get a Teaching Certificate in Florida

There are two main ways you can get a Florida teaching certificate. First, is the simplest route, where you earn a bachelor’s degree in education, followed by specialization courses.

The second method is to secure a temporary certification, which is valid for 3 years and non-renewable. During this validity period, you should be working to get professionally certified. Also, like the first option, a bachelor’s degree is required.

For both pathways, you’ll need to pass the FTCE or Florida Teacher Certificate Examination, which has 3 sections. These include the General Knowledge Test, Professional Education Test, and Subject Area Examinations. You also need to complete a formal teacher preparation program.

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Becoming a Teacher in Florida: Some Exceptions to Keep in Mind

If you already have a teaching certificate, but it’s from another state, you should check if you can be exempt from some of the required testing. There is such a thing called teacher certification reciprocity. This means your license might be recognized by another state.

Florida is one of the states that have guidelines for reciprocity, however, it doesn’t mean that the process is automatic. While your application for a teaching license in Florida is being reviewed, you may be issued a temporary certification. Of course, while you have this temporary certification, you should be trying to meet the remaining requirements for becoming a licensed teacher in Florida.

Don’t Forget These Other Requirements for Teaching in Florida

Aside from passing tests and completing a formal teacher preparation program, you should know that teaching applicants have to submit fingerprints for a state and federal background check.

You’ll also need to be ready with official transcripts, a teaching portfolio, and so on. When you have these documents prepared, and obtained your certification, you can start searching job boards and looking for substitute teaching opportunities.

It also doesn’t hurt to ask friends, who already teach in the schools you want to work for. Perhaps, they can put in a good word for you, when they have a chance to talk with the school administrator.

Are You Excited to Be a Teacher?

Now that you know how to get a teaching certificate in Florida, what steps are you taking now to get closer to your dream job?

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If you need more tips on becoming a teacher, do check out our other posts. We have tons of education-related topics, which you might find interesting. You might also want to check out our other sections, including business, money, success, and so on.

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