Become a Middle School Math Teacher in California
Qualified middle school math teachers are in demand in the state of California. Read on to find out more about being a math teacher in California and the specific programs and requirements to obtain certification.
California Math Teacher Information
In order to become licensed as a math teacher in the state of California, there are several requirements you will need to meet. The most straightforward route is through a teacher education program, after which you will need to complete a series of assessments and requirements to earn certification.
<table border="1"><tr><td>Educational Requirements </td><td>Bachelor's degree</td></tr>
<tr><td>Exam Requirements </td><td>California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST);<br/> California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) Mathematics</td></tr>
<tr><td>License Validity</td><td>Five years</td></tr>
<tr><td>Average California Middle School Teacher Salary (2018) </td><td>$75,660*</td></tr>
<tr><td>Estimated Job Growth for Middle School Teachers Nationwide (2016-26)</td><td>8%*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---JobDescription">Job Description</h3><p>California middle school math teachers develop lesson plans, tests, and homework materials; grade papers; assign readings; facilitate discussion about math and its various concept areas; and document the progress of students. Additional duties often include supervising homerooms and study halls, meeting with parents, and coordinating with school administrators.
</p><h3 id="section---EducationRequirements">Education Requirements</h3><p>In order to become a math teacher in the state of California, you must obtain a bachelor's degree and complete a teacher education program. These programs are offered through a selection of regionally accredited universities approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. These programs will help you meet all educational requirements you need to gain certification as a middle school math teacher, and they will prepare you for the next steps in the certification process.
</p><h3 id="section---BasicSkillsTest">Basic Skills Test</h3><p>The next step is passing California's certification exams. After completing a state-approved teacher education program, prospective teaching candidates must pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). This test is composed of a 50-question multiple-choice reading section, a 50-question multiple-choice math section, and finally a writing section that consists of two essays. This test is designed to prove a basic level of general competency. The test should take no longer than four hours and can be taken at any of California's approved computer-based testing (CBT) sites.
</p><h3 id="section---SubjectExamination">Subject Examination</h3><p>Once you have demonstrated a basic level of competency through the passing of a CBEST, the next step is to take a California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) test. There are several CSETs available to prospective teachers, but you only need to complete the one relevant to the subject area you wish to be certified to teach. For candidates who are working toward gaining certification as a math teacher, only the mathematics CSET is necessary.
</p><h3 id="section---LicensingApplication">Licensing Application</h3><p>Once candidates have completed and passed all necessary requirements and exams, it is now time to submit an application for an official license. Students must collect official transcripts, documented proof of passing all tests and exams, proof of completion of a preparation program, and Live Scan fingerprints. Candidates must then send a completed application to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, including any application fees. Candidates can then receive a Preliminary Credential, which is good for five years. After five years, teachers must then upgrade to a Clear Credential.</p>