Becoming a Math Teacher in New Jersey

Information for Math Teachers in New Jersey

Math teachers in New Jersey educate students on theories and problem-solving methods surrounding mathematical concepts such as algebra, calculus, and geometry. Teachers can obtain certification at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels in math. New Jersey has a three-tiered certification system that culminates with a permanent standard certificate. Find out more about certification below.

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Educational Requirements

To apply for a math teacher role in New Jersey, applicants must hold a bachelor's degree (from a regionally-accredited college or university) with a minimum of 3.0 GPA. At least 30 course credits in mathematics, with 12 credits in an advanced level of study, must also be completed. Acceptable courses in the mathematics field include geometry, calculus, algebra, and statistics. Depending on the content involved, related courses may also be accepted - though general education courses in pedagogy will not be approved.

Exam Requirements

All math teachers in New Jersey need to obtain a qualifying score in the basic skills test, Praxis II test, and edTPA in secondary or middle childhood mathematics. To satisfy the basic skills requirement, one must undertake the Praxis Core Academic Skills, measuring their knowledge on literacy and mathematics. The Praxis II Test is a computer-based examination that assesses your knowledge and competency in the field of mathematics, testing their ability to understand concepts and solve complex problems. Finally, the edTPA in mathematics is a performance-based assessment, designed to review and reflect on your effectiveness as a mathematics teacher in a classroom setting.

Acquiring Your Standard Instructional Certificate

Teacher certification in New Jersey is a three-tiered process: applicants first obtain their Certificate of Eligibility (CE) or Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS), before moving on to a provisional certificate, and finally, a standard instructional certificate. A CE is granted to an applicant who has passed all the basic requirements for certification, though is yet to complete a teacher preparation program in math education. A CEAS is granted to those who have successfully fulfilled both. This certification allows holders to seek and accept employment in New Jersey school districts, and upon finding work as a math teacher, their employer files for their two-year provisional certificate. These two years will provide new teachers with mentoring, supervision, and evaluation from certified instructors, also known as the Provisional Teacher Process (PTP). After all requirements are met, individuals can apply online for their Mathematics Standard Certificate.

Renewal Information

Once your standard teaching certificate in mathematics has been issued, it is permanently valid and will not require a renewal. However, holders must fulfill 20 hours of professional development (PD) each school year, and develop a yearly PD plan with their school or district leaders. PD activities must serve to improve and the learning and assessment methods of the individual.

Provisional certificates may still be renewed beyond their two-year validity. The school district will be sent a renewal form from the county office for provisional certificate holders who require an extension to complete their PTP requirements.