Are you an experienced professional looking to transition into the teaching field? Idaho offers a variety of alternative pathways to gain teacher certification in a shorter period of time than traditional routes. Whether you’re a recent college graduate, changing careers, or already have a teaching license from another state, there may be an option that’s right for you.
This article will provide an overview of requirements, programs, types of licenses, and testing needed for alternative routes to teaching in Idaho.
Requirements and Programs for Alternative Certification
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree to be eligible for alternative certification in Idaho. Teacher preparation is required, and can be completed while teaching. Reading instruction coursework is also a requirement. Programs vary in length, with some taking as little as one year to complete. Some offer a master’s degree option as well.
Idaho recognizes ABCTE certification as a route to teacher licensure, requiring online courses and a two-year mentorship. Upon completion, candidates are eligible for a standard Idaho teaching certificate.
Types of Alternative Teaching Licenses
Idaho offers several alternative teaching licenses designed to attract experienced professionals with non-education bachelor’s degrees to the classroom. These routes include the ABCTE certification, which requires candidates to take online courses through ABCTE, obtain a full-time teaching position, and complete a two-year mentorship. Upon completion of all program requirements, candidates are eligible for a standard Idaho teaching certificate.
The state also accepts Teach for America candidates, who must meet the program’s qualifications. Professional-Technical Education Certification is another route that requires a high school diploma, experience, and industry certification. Candidates may teach while completing a teacher preparation program in an occupational area. Testing requirements and license transfers also apply.
Teach for America
Highly qualified candidates in critical need areas are preferred for Idaho’s Teach for America program. This program is administered jointly with Boise State University and allows candidates with an alternate route to teaching. It requires applicants to have a high school diploma, experience, and industry certification.
To gain licensure, candidates must complete the following:
- Online Courses: Take online courses through ABCTE and obtain a full-time teaching position.
- Mentorship: After completing the courses, candidates must complete a two-year mentorship.
- Certification: After completing all program requirements, candidates are eligible for a standard Idaho teaching certificate.
Professional-Technical Education Certification
For those interested in becoming a teacher of Professional-Technical or career and technical education subjects, Idaho offers certifications that typically require a high school diploma, experience, and industry certification.
Interim or limited certificates are valid for three years and allow candidates to teach while completing a teacher preparation program in an occupational area.
The Idaho Division of Professional-Technical Education provides more information about these certifications.
To renew into an Initial Certificate, teachers must pass an Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Course.
Visit the Idaho State Department of Education for detailed reciprocity information.
Testing Requirements and License Transfer
Prospective educators in Idaho must pass Praxis subject assessments to obtain teaching certification. Testing requirements vary depending on the type of certification sought, but generally include the following:
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Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators:
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Reading
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Writing
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Mathematics
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Praxis Subject Assessments:
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Assessment specific to the area of certification
Out-of-state teaching license holders may be eligible for an Interim Certificate, valid for three years. To renew into an Initial Certificate, educators must pass an Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Course.
Detailed reciprocity information is available through the Idaho State Department of Education.
Resources and Schools With Alternative and Master’s Programs
Idaho offers a variety of alternative and master’s programs for aspiring educators, both online and through accredited schools. Resources such as Teach for America and ABCTE offer a pathway to certification while schools such as Boise State University offer master’s programs.
A 3 column and 4 row table can provide a visual representation of the available programs: the first column will list the program name, the second column will have the requirements for admission, and the third column will list the duration of the program.
For example, ABCTE requires a bachelor’s degree and has a one-year program, while Boise State University requires a bachelor’s degree and offers a two-year master’s program.
With these resources, aspiring educators can find the right program to meet their needs.
Conclusion
Alternative routes to teaching in Idaho provide a viable pathway for individuals with non-education backgrounds to obtain teacher certification. Requirements, programs, types of licenses, and testing vary depending on the route taken.
With available resources such as Teach for America and Professional-Technical Education Certification, individuals can pursue their desired career goals in an efficient manner.
For those looking to switch careers, Idaho offers a variety of options to obtain the necessary qualifications and become a certified teacher.
