Certification for Dance Teachers in Texas

Texas Dance Teacher Career Information

The dance teacher certification in Texas qualifies teachers to educate students in grades 6 through 12. Dance teachers instruct their students in the basic movement of different styles of dance, such as ballet, modern dance, and jazz technique. Prospective teachers must complete education requirements, including coursework in dance, plus experience and test requirements. Read below to learn more about what is needed for this certification.

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), **Texas Workforce Commission

Education Requirements

All prospective teachers in Texas must possess a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited university of college. Those interested in teaching dance generally need to major in dance or a dance-related field. The dance major typically includes coursework in ballet technique, modern dance technique, performance, choreography, dance theory, and dance history. Students usually need to achieve a minimum competency level in specific dance styles, such as ballet, to complete their dance degree.

Teacher Training Requirements

Future dance teachers must also complete a teacher preparation program that has been approved by the Texas Education Agency. This program must include coursework that covers how to meet the educational needs of dyslexic students. The program is typically a blend of coursework and fieldwork. Course topics can include learning development, classroom environment, effective classroom instruction, and how to teach dance techniques. The fieldwork component places students in a local school district so they can gain experience as a student teacher and learn how to use their skills in a real classroom setting.

Certification Exams

Prospective applicants for the Texas dance teacher certification must successfully pass two exams: the TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC-12 (PPR) and the TExES Dance 6-12. Before taking these exams, applicants must receive approval from their teacher preparation exam. There are 100 multiple choice questions on each exam, which are computer based. The PPR covers a range of topics relating to teaching, including classroom management, professional responsibility, and student instruction. The Dance 6-12 includes questions covering topics such as dance elements, dance education, creating dance, and history of dance. A score of 240 is needed to pass each exam.

Application Facts

After applicants have completed the above requirements and have confirmed with their teacher preparation program that they are qualified to receive certification, they can submit the application and certification fee to the Texas Education Agency. As part of the application, they must also have fingerprints on file and complete a criminal background check.

Renewal Requirements

The Texas dance teacher certification is valid for five years. Teachers who wish to renew their certification for another five years must complete at least 150 hours of continuing professional education (CPE). The Texas Education Agency maintains an updated list of approved ways in which this requirement can be fulfilled. Some examples include mentoring junior teachers, attending workshops, taking advanced coursework from an accredited college, and participating in educational conference. Teachers must also submit an application and fee as part of the renewal process.