If you’re interested in becoming a certified teacher in Indiana, it is important to understand the steps needed to obtain a teaching license.
The Indiana Teaching and Certification Resource provides an overview of the requirements to become a licensed teacher in Indiana, such as eligibility criteria, approved teacher education programs, teacher testing requirements, and additional certification requirements.
This resource is designed to help potential teachers navigate the Indiana teaching certification process.
Eligibility Requirements for Indiana Teacher Licensing
What eligibility requirements must be met for Indiana teacher licensing?
- A bachelor’s degree is a requirement, as is the completion of an approved teacher preparation program.
- Additionally, all applicants must pass the state-required tests.
- For added safety, CPR/AED/Heimlich certification and suicide prevention training must also be obtained.
- Approved programs are available from the Indiana Department of Education and must be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
- Passing the appropriate Praxis exams is also necessary for teacher licensure.
- Background checks are also conducted, and valid certifications in CPR and other emergency measures must be maintained.
Approved Teacher Education Programs in Indiana
Given the importance of completing an approved teacher education program, the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) provides a listing of approved in-state programs as well as approved online and distance programs, all of which must be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Completion of a teacher preparation program at an approved and accredited university is necessary for teacher licensure in Indiana. The Board of Education’s approval is also required and the teacher preparation program must be listed by the Board of Education as an approved institution.
While the program can be completed while earning a bachelor’s degree or afterwards, it is important to note that Praxis exams are also required in the state for teacher licensure.
Lastly, background checks, CPR/AED/Heimlich certification, and suicide prevention training are also required for certification.
Indiana Teacher Education Requirements
Completion of a teacher preparation program at an approved and accredited university is necessary for teacher licensure in Indiana. To be eligible, the program must be listed by the Board of Education as an approved institution and can be completed while earning a bachelor’s degree or after.
Indiana requires the following:
- Pass state-required tests
- Qualifies graduates for teacher licensure in the state
- Board of Education approval is necessary for teacher licensure
Indiana Teacher Testing Requirements
How and why are Praxis exams required after completing an approved Indiana teacher preparation program?
Indiana requires candidates to take the Principles of Learning and Teaching exam as well as several content area assessments in order to become a certified teacher. These exams vary based on grade level and endorsement areas.
The exams are administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and can be taken at various locations throughout the state.
The results of these exams are used to demonstrate the candidate’s proficiency in the necessary subject areas.
Passing the Praxis exams is necessary for teacher licensure in Indiana and is an important part of the certification process.
Additional Indiana Teacher Certification Requirements
In order to receive teacher certification in Indiana, applicants must meet several requirements. These include passing a state and federal background check, obtaining certification in CPR, the Heimlich Maneuver, and automated external defibrillator (AED) use, and completing education and training on child suicide prevention.
The background check is conducted through Indiana’s electronic Fingerprinting Network (INkless) and requires the submission of fingerprints.
Certification in CPR, the Heimlich Maneuver, and AED use must be obtained from approved providers such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
Lastly, applicants must complete education and training on child suicide prevention, as well as recognition of suicidal warning signs.
These requirements ensure that teachers in Indiana are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for their students.
INkless Electronic Fingerprinting Network
Submitting a fingerprint-based background check through the Indiana’s INkless Electronic Fingerprinting Network is required to obtain teacher certification in Indiana.
The network is used by the state to conduct criminal background checks for those applying for teacher certification.
INkless is an online platform that enables applicants to submit an electronic fingerprint background check in a secure and efficient manner.
The fingerprint-based background check is a mandatory requirement for Indiana teacher certification and must be submitted prior to certification approval.
INkless also provides the ability to track the status of the background check to ensure it is processed in a timely manner.
The platform is an essential component of the teacher certification process in Indiana and is necessary to ensure the safety of students.
CPR, AED, and Heimlich Certification Requirements
To obtain teacher certification in Indiana, individuals are required to have valid certification in CPR, AED, and the Heimlich Maneuver. This certification must be obtained from approved providers such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association. The specific certifications needed include CPR, AED, and the Heimlich Maneuver. These certifications are a necessary requirement for teacher licensure in Indiana.
Suicide Prevention Training for Teachers
Completing education and training on child suicide prevention and recognition of suicidal warning signs is required for Indiana teacher certification. All educators must receive instruction in recognizing the warning signs and responding appropriately to potentially suicidal students. This training is critical for teachers to be able to identify and support students who may be at risk of suicide.
The table below summarizes the important elements of suicide prevention training for Indiana teachers.
| Knowledge | Skills |
|---|---|
| Warning Signs | Intervention strategies |
| Risk Factors | Referral processes |
| Protective Factors | Crisis management |
Benefits of Completing an Approved Teacher Education Program
Gaining an education from an approved teacher preparation program provides numerous benefits for aspiring Indiana teachers. Such programs offer the necessary preparation required by the state Board of Education for teacher licensure. These programs also provide an understanding of the principles of learning and teaching, as well as specialized knowledge for certain grade levels and areas of endorsement. Completion of an approved program also increases the chances of success on the required Praxis exams and demonstrates excellence in teacher education.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree
- Complete an approved teacher preparation program
- Pass state-required tests
Additional Resources for Indiana Teachers
Frequently, Indiana teachers can access a variety of resources to assist them in their professional journey. From approved teacher preparation programs to completing state-required tests, teachers in Indiana have many options to ensure they meet the requirements for licensure.
Additionally, Indiana teachers are required to complete CPR/AED/Heimlich certification, as well as child suicide prevention training. All certifications must be issued by approved providers such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
Indiana also provides an electronic Fingerprinting Network (INkless) that teachers must submit state and federal background checks through.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Indiana Teaching and Certification Resource provides potential teachers with the necessary information to successfully complete the process of obtaining a license in the state.
The resource outlines eligibility requirements, approved teacher education programs, teacher education requirements, teacher testing requirements, and additional certification requirements.
Completing an approved teacher education program provides teachers with the necessary qualifications to obtain a license in Indiana and the benefits of obtaining such a license.
