Teaching is a rewarding career, and the process of becoming a certified teacher in Maryland can be complex.
The Maryland Teaching and Certification Resource provides an overview of the qualifications, requirements, and resources needed to become a certified teacher in the state.
This article will provide an overview of the process and discuss topics such as degree requirements, preparation program certification, testing and background checks, and salary and job outlook.
Requirements for Becoming a Teacher in Maryland
Regularly, Maryland requires prospective teachers to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. They must also complete a state-approved teacher preparation program and pass state-mandated exams for educators. Alternative certification options are available for those without a traditional teaching background.
Maryland also has a tiered system for teacher certification, with different levels of licensure based on education and experience. Reading coursework is necessary, with specific requirements based on grade level. Praxis Subject Assessments may exempt candidates from this requirement.
Completion of the preparation program is usually part of a bachelor’s degree coursework. Additionally, all applicants must pass a background check and submit necessary documentation to the Maryland State Department of Education.
Finding Approved Teacher Education Programs in Maryland
Attending an approved Maryland teacher preparation program is essential for teacher certification. The Maryland State Department of Education provides a list of Maryland Approved Programs (MAPs). Schools must be accredited by regional accreditation agencies and hold approval from the state’s Board of Education. Accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) is also viewed as a sign of quality.
The state also offers a sortable table to compare key metrics of state-approved teacher preparation programs. Prospective teachers should consider the time and cost commitment of each program, and the credentials of the faculty members. Additionally, the program should provide instruction that aligns with the grade level and subject area of the desired teaching position.
Taking the time to find the right teacher preparation program can be the first step to a successful teaching career.
Teacher Testing Requirements in Maryland
Passing state-mandated exams is a necessary requirement for becoming a certified teacher in Maryland. The first exam requirement is passing a basic skills test, which can be substituted with exceptional scores on other standardized tests. Additionally, prospective teachers must pass the Praxis Subject Assessment for the desired grade level and subject area, as well as the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching test. Lastly, teachers of foreign languages must take the ACTFL proficiency test administered by Language Testing International (LTI).
Different levels of licensure are based on education and experience.
Qualifying scores on the Praxis Subject Assessments may exempt candidates from the reading coursework requirement.
Background check process must be completed for all teaching applicants.
Additional Requirements for Maryland Teacher Certification
Completing all necessary requirements and submitting the appropriate documentation to the Maryland State Department of Education are essential for obtaining teacher certification in Maryland.
In addition to a bachelor’s degree, state-approved teacher preparation program, and qualifying scores on assessments, all teaching applicants must complete a background check. This requires fingerprinting and a review from both state and federal authorities.
All necessary documents, such as transcripts, verification of the preparation program, test scores, and a completed application with payment, must be submitted to the Department of Education.
Further instructions can be found on their website.
With the right qualifications, the Maryland State Department of Education can help teachers obtain the certification they need to begin their career.
Maryland Teacher Outlook
In Maryland, projections indicate an average of 1,100 annual openings for elementary school teachers from 2016 to 2026.
The job outlook for teachers in Maryland is promising, as the state has an estimated student enrollment of 886,221 and a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1.
Salary information varies by grade level, with average annual salaries ranging from $71,060 for elementary school teachers to $72,610 for secondary school teachers.
Here are a few key points about the teacher outlook in Maryland:
- 1,424 K-12 public schools
- An average of 1,100 annual openings for elementary school teachers
- Average annual salary of $71,060 for elementary school teachers
Maryland Teacher Salary
The average annual salary of teachers in Maryland varies by grade level, ranging from $71,060 for elementary school teachers to $72,610 for secondary school teachers. According to the Maryland Department of Education, the average salary for middle school teachers is $69,710, which is slightly lower than the elementary and secondary teacher salaries. The table below provides an overview of the average salaries for teachers in Maryland by grade level.
| Grade Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Elementary | $71,060 |
| Middle | $69,710 |
| Secondary | $72,610 |
Maryland Job Openings for Teachers
Projections indicate that Maryland will have an average of 1,100 annual job openings for teachers from 2016 to 2026. Specifically, there are estimated openings of:
- 620 for elementary school teachers
- 620 for middle school teachers
- 830 for secondary school teachers
Notably, these openings come with attractive salaries for teachers in Maryland. Average salaries for the three levels are $71,060, $69,710, and $72,610, respectively.
The Maryland Department of Education is a great resource for further information on job openings and salary expectations.
Benefits of Becoming a Maryland Teacher
Becoming a Maryland teacher offers a variety of benefits, including competitive salaries and job security. Teachers in Maryland are offered a great chance to make a difference in the lives of children and shape their futures. Additionally, they receive excellent benefits, such as retirement plans and health care coverage. Furthermore, they enjoy the satisfaction of seeing their students grow and learn.
| Benefits | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Job security & competitive salaries | Stable job with secure future, salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, retirement benefits, health coverage, and other benefits | Long hours, unpredictable schedules, stress, and emotional strain |
| Making a difference in the lives of students | Bringing knowledge and wisdom to students, making a positive impact on the lives of children, seeing students grow and learn, and developing meaningful relationships | Difficult and demanding job, dealing with parents, and potential for burnout |
| Professional development | Opportunities for professional development, keeping up with new teaching strategies, attending conferences and workshops, and networking with colleagues | Limited resources and budget constraints |
Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Maryland
Though substitute teaching is not a traditional path to becoming certified, it is an excellent way for those interested in teaching in Maryland to gain experience in the classroom.
Those looking to become a substitute teacher in Maryland must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a high school diploma or its equivalent
- Pass a criminal background check
- Successfully complete the substitute teacher training program approved by the Maryland State Department of Education.
Once these criteria have been met, a person is eligible to become a substitute teacher in Maryland.
Financing Your Teacher Education in Maryland
Financing your teacher education in Maryland can be made more accessible through a variety of loan programs and financial aid options.
Federal and state loan programs are available to help make the cost of tuition and other expenses more manageable. The Maryland Higher Education Commission provides information about which grants, loans, and scholarships are available for prospective teachers and students.
Some loans are available to help cover the cost of tuition for students pursuing an approved teacher preparation program. The Maryland Teacher Loan Program, for instance, provides low-interest loans up to $5,000 for students attending an approved teacher education program.
Additionally, many private lenders offer loan options specifically for those pursuing a teaching degree. It’s important to compare interest rates, repayment terms, and other details before selecting a loan program.
Prospective teachers should also research other financial aid options, such as scholarships and grants, which may be available to help finance their education.
Conclusion
The teacher certification process in Maryland can be a challenging endeavor, but the rewards of becoming a certified teacher in the state are well worth the effort.
With the right qualifications and preparation, prospective teachers can be well on their way to a successful and rewarding career in the field of education.
With the right resources and guidance, becoming a teacher in Maryland is an achievable goal for those looking to make a difference in their community.
