Are you interested in becoming a teacher in Delaware?
The Delaware Teaching and Certification Resource is a comprehensive guide that provides detailed information about the requirements, approved programs, testing, and additional certification requirements to become a certified teacher in the state.
Get started on your educational and career journey today by learning more about the Delaware Teaching and Certification Resource.
Requirements for Becoming a Teacher in Delaware
One of the key requirements for becoming a teacher in Delaware is to hold a bachelor’s degree and complete an acceptable teacher preparation program. In addition, passing scores on an approved performance exam such as the edTPA and on the Praxis Subject Assessment for the subject and grade level to be taught are expected.
Alternative certification may be an option for those who have a bachelor’s degree but didn’t finish a teacher preparation program. Approved teacher education programs are offered by regionally accredited four-year colleges and universities, and must be accredited by NCATE, CAEP, or the board of education for the state. Student teaching must be included in the program, and the curriculum must focus on the 14 professional teaching standards of Delaware.
Passing the Praxis Subject Assessment is a must, and additional requirements include a criminal background check and a child protection registry check.
Finding Approved Teacher Education Programs in Delaware
Finding an approved teacher education program in Delaware requires researching regionally accredited four-year colleges and universities to ensure the program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), or the board of education for the state. The program must lead to certification in an endorsement area recognized by the State of Delaware and must be an initial educator program leading to a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, the curriculum must focus on the state’s professional teaching standards and include a segment of student teaching.
| Program | Qualification |
|---|---|
| NCATE | Accreditation |
| CAEP | Accreditation |
| Board of Education | Accreditation |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Initial Educator Program |
Delaware Teacher Education Requirements
In order to become a teacher in Delaware, individuals must complete a bachelor’s degree and an acceptable teacher preparation program that meets the state’s professional teaching standards, including a segment of student teaching. This program must be accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), or the board of education for the state.
Furthermore, the curriculum of the program must focus on the state’s specific professional teaching standards. Candidates must pass the Praxis Subject Assessment for each endorsement area sought. Background checks are also required.
All teachers must be highly qualified through a series of tests, including the Praxis Subject Assessment. These requirements help ensure that educators in Delaware are prepared to provide quality instruction.
Delaware Teacher Testing Requirements
Educators in Delaware must pass a variety of tests, including the Praxis Subject Assessment, in order to be certified as teachers. This assessment measures the skills and knowledge needed to teach a particular subject or grade level.
Educators with less than one year of licensed experience must pass an approved performance assessment within two years. Additionally, Delaware state law requires teachers to submit to background checks before being placed in a school.
For those without a teacher preparation program, alternative certification may be an option. It’s important to research any program to ensure it meets the standards set by the state.
Additional Delaware Teacher Certification Requirements
In addition to the testing requirements, obtaining teacher certification in Delaware also requires undergoing a state and federal criminal background check, as well as a child protection registry check.
Background checks are usually completed during student teaching, but may be required again upon receiving an offer of employment. Background check is not usually required for licensure unless the candidate has a previous misdemeanor or felony offense conviction.
Delaware state law requires teachers to submit to background checks before being placed in a school.
It is important to note that these requirements are in addition to the teacher testing requirements in order to obtain teacher certification in Delaware.
Understanding Delaware Endorsement Areas
To understand the different endorsement areas available in Delaware, it is important to research the state’s requirements for teacher preparation programs and the specific tests needed to qualify for each endorsement.
To gain an endorsement, teachers must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree
- Complete an acceptable teacher preparation program
- Obtain passing scores on an acceptable performance exam
- Obtain passing scores on the Praxis Subject Assessment(s)
Preparing for the Praxis Subject Assessment
The Praxis Subject Assessment is a necessary component of an educator’s preparation for certification in Delaware. Passing this exam is required for all educators in the state, regardless of the endorsement area.
The Praxis Subject Assessment tests an educator’s knowledge of a particular subject area and grade level, and is used to ensure teachers meet the state’s standards for highly qualified educators. It is important to be well-prepared for this exam, as it is a key factor in obtaining teaching certification in Delaware.
Educators should familiarize themselves with the content and format of the exam, and use any available resources such as study guides and practice tests to prepare. Taking the time to adequately prepare for the Praxis Subject Assessment is essential for any educator seeking to become certified in Delaware.
Completing a Background Check
By completing a background check, educators can ensure they meet Delaware’s requirements for licensure and demonstrate their commitment to providing a safe learning environment. The importance of a thorough background check cannot be overstated, as it helps protect students from potential harm.
Here are just a few of the reasons why a background check is necessary:
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It helps ensure that only individuals with a clean criminal record are teaching students
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It helps to protect the school district from potential liabilities
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It enables school districts to make informed decisions when hiring new teachers
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It allows for a more secure learning environment for students
Obtaining Professional Development Opportunities
Staying up-to-date with professional development is essential for Delaware teachers to remain qualified and certified.
The Delaware Department of Education (DDOE) offers a variety of professional development opportunities for teachers to further their knowledge and skills. These opportunities include online courses, workshops, conferences, and seminars.
There are also many resources available to help teachers stay informed on the latest research and best practices. Additionally, the DDOE provides funding for teachers to attend national and international professional development conferences.
Furthermore, teachers have the opportunity to collaborate with their peers to share ideas and resources. Professional development opportunities are a great way for teachers to stay engaged in the profession and develop professionally.
They also help teachers stay current on educational trends, gain new skills, and stay competitive in the job market.
Exploring Additional Certification Options
With an array of additional certification options, Delaware teachers can further their professional development and enhance their qualifications. Whether seeking alternative teacher certification or exploring Praxis Subject Assessment requirements, there are several paths to take in order to become a certified Delaware teacher.
• Earning a bachelor’s degree
• Completing a teacher preparation program
• Achieving passing scores on performance assessments
• Submitting to criminal background checks
Conclusion
The Delaware Teaching and Certification Resource is an invaluable tool for those interested in becoming a certified teacher in Delaware.
It provides detailed information on all of the requirements for certification, including approved programs, testing requirements, and additional certification requirements.
By familiarizing oneself with the resource, one can make informed decisions and ensure a successful educational and career journey.
