An emergency teacher certification is available in states where there is a short supply of teachers who hold a standard certification. If you have always dreamed of becoming a teacher in a grade school, middle school or high school setting, learning which states have special emergency certification programs can help you turn your dreams into a reality, quickly. It is important to understand that not all states have this unique emergency program and there are other alternatives that have become more popular in the wake of critical teacher shortages. Read on, and learn about the certification, the requirements, and where this option is still available.
What is an Emergency Teaching Certificate?
An emergency teaching certificate is a limited certification that acts as a temporary solution when there is a growing need for public school teachers and there are few teachers available to hire. What makes this type of certification unique is that it is only granted to people who live and plan to work in areas where there is a teacher shortage and there are no certified candidates for employment. The shortages are most common in rural and inner city areas where professionals do not typically gravitate.
In order for certification to be awarded, a school district must attempt to find teachers who have a full certificate. If unsuccessful, the school district can then evaluate candidates who are not certified or who have a subject-specific certification and issue an emergency certificate. When this is issued, the person will be eligible to start teaching right away. It is a great option for prospective teachers to gain in-class experience while working to get a traditional certification.
What are Emergency Certification Requirements?
The requirements to be issued a certificate in this type of situation depends entirely on the state. In most states, you must have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution before you will be a candidate for a limited certificate. Some states also require that the candidate start the process to earn a traditional teacher certification. Regardless of the requirements, the certificate will last for up to 1 year and may be renewable if the demand calls for it.
Where can you Get an Emergency Certificate?
If you are willing to relocate to begin your career, knowing which states have an emergency certification can help you decide which route to take. Not many states have an emergency pathway, but there are still states with the program in force. Currently, you can earn this type of alternative certificate by working in Texas, Missouri, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Mississippi, California, or Arizona. While this does limit your options, most states have an alternative program that has replaced emergency certification pathways.
Teachers are in demand all across the United States. In some states, there is a struggle to keep up with the growing demand for professionals. The key to entering the field as quickly as possible is to look for pathways that are unique. Choosing the pathway to fill in the gaps can truly benefit you and be fulfilling in the process. Be sure to consider the demand and salary ranges, and then you can decide where to pursue an emergency teacher certification so that you can start your career.
