Become an Elementary School Teacher in Texas
Elementary school teachers will teach a range of core subjects to students up to grade 6, and are required to complete certain exam and test requirements before gaining certification.
Texas Elementary School Teacher Certification Information
Those interested in teaching at elementary school level in Texas must first obtain certification in early childhood education. This qualifies teachers to work with students up to grade 6 in the core subjects, such as English and mathematics.
<table border="1"><tr><td> Education Required </td><td> Bachelor's degree and state-approved educator preparation program</td></tr>
<tr><td> Exam Requirements </td><td> TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (EC-12); Core Subjects (EC-6)</td></tr>
<tr><td> License Renewal Period </td><td> Five years</td></tr>
<tr><td> CEU Credits Required for Renewal </td><td> 150 hours of continuing professional education</td></tr>
<tr><td> Average Salary (2018, Texas) </td><td>$56,520*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Estimated Job Growth (2016-2026, nationwide) </td><td> 7%**</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
</i></p><h3 id="section---MeetEducationRequirements">Meet Education Requirements</h3><p>All prospective elementary school teachers must possess a minimum of a bachelor's degree before applying for certification. The bachelor's degree can be in any major related to teaching elementary school students, such as education, psychology, or interdisciplinary studies. The degree program generally includes coursework in several different subjects, such as literacy, language arts, mathematics concepts, and early childhood development.
</p><h3 id="section---CompleteEducatorPreparationProgram">Complete Educator Preparation Program</h3><p>Prospective elementary school teachers must also complete an educator preparation program approved by the Texas Education Agency, typically as part of the degree. The program includes coursework such as learning theory, classroom management, and teaching diverse learners. The Texas Education Agency also requires that the program include instruction on teaching students with dyslexia. As part of the program, candidates for certification complete fieldwork as a student teacher in a local elementary school.
</p><h3 id="section---CompleteExamRequirements">Complete Exam Requirements</h3><p>Prospective elementary school teachers must take and pass two required exams, after receiving approval from their educator preparation program;
</p><ul><li>TExES Core Subjects EC-6 and,
</li><li>TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities EC-12 (PPR).
</li></ul><p>The TExES Core Subjects includes five subject tests: English Language Arts and Reading & Science of Teaching Reading, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Fine Arts, Health and Physical Education.
</p><p>THE PPR contains 100 multiple-choice questions covering four main subdomains: Designing Instruction and Assessment to Promote Student Learning; Creating a Positive, Productive Classroom Environment; Implementing Effective, Responsive Instruction and Assessment; and Fulfilling Professional Roles and Responsibilities.
</p><p>Candidates must score at least 240 on each exam.
</p><h3 id="section---SubmitApplication">Submit Application</h3><p>Candidates can apply for certification once they verify with their program that all requirements have been met. To apply, submit an application form, certification fee, and supporting documents to the Texas Education Agency. All prospective teachers must complete a criminal background check and have fingerprints on file as part of the application. Once the application is approved, the certification is valid for five years.
</p><h3 id="section---FulfillRenewalRequirements">Fulfill Renewal Requirements</h3><p>Teachers must complete a minimum of 150 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) to renew their license. They must also submit the renewal application and pay a renewal fee. The Texas Education Agency offers several approved ways for teachers to obtain their CPE credit. Some possibilities include completing a graduate degree or certificate, attending professional conferences, or mentoring a junior teacher. Teachers should confirm that their professional activities meet the requirements for CPE credit.</p>