Becoming a Math Teacher in Texas

<h2 id="section---TexasMathTeacherCertificationInformation">Texas Math Teacher Certification Information</h2> <p>Those interested in teaching math in Texas can choose to teach at the middle school (grades 4-8) or high school (grades 7-12) level. The requirements for these certifications include proof of knowledge of various mathematical concepts and skills in teaching. To find out more about the specific requirements for certification, such as degree and exams, continue reading below. </p> <p /> <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); TExES Mathematics (4-8) or Mathematics (7-12)</td></tr> <tr><td> License Renewal Period </td><td> Five years</td></tr> <tr><td> CPE Credits Required for Renewal </td><td> 150 hours of continuing professional education (CPE)</td></tr> <tr><td> Average Salary (2018, Texas) </td><td> $56,580 (all middle school teachers); $58,190 (all high school teachers)*</td></tr> <tr><td> Estimated Job Growth (2016-2026, nationwide) </td><td> 7% (all middle school teachers); 8% (all high school teachers)*</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i> </p> <h3 id="section---FulfillDegreeRequirements">Fulfill Degree Requirements</h3> <p>To teach math at the middle or high school level, prospective teachers need to obtain at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college. Candidates should plan to major in mathematics or mathematics education. The major program generally includes courses in geometry, probability, algebra, calculus, and statistics. </p> <h3 id="section---CompleteEducatorPreparationProgram">Complete Educator Preparation Program</h3> <p>Prospective teachers are required by the Texas Education Agency to complete an approved educator preparation program, as well as coursework related to teaching dyslexic students. The Agency maintains a list of approved programs in the state. This program will include coursework covering education topics, such as foundations of literacy, classroom management, teaching diverse learners, and secondary teaching methods. As part of the program, candidates are typically required to complete hours as a student teacher in a local middle or high school. </p> <h3 id="section---MeetExamRequirements">Meet Exam Requirements</h3> <p>All prospective teachers must take and pass the TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) EC-12 exam. The minimum passing score is 240 and the exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions covering four subdomains, such as designing instruction and assessment to promote student learning and creating a positive, productive classroom environment. </p> <p>Prospective math teachers must also pass either TExES Mathematics 4-8 or TExES Mathematics 7-12 exam, depending on the grade level they plan to teach. Each exam contains 100 multiple-choice questions covering six subtopics, including patterns and algebra; probability and statistics; and mathematics learning, instruction, and assessment, and also has a minimum score of 240 to pass. </p> <h3 id="section---CompleteApplication">Complete Application</h3> <p>To apply for certification, prospective teachers must submit an application form, fee, transcripts, and other supporting documentation to the Texas Education Agency. They must also undergo a criminal background check and have a complete set of fingerprints on file. Once the certification is received, it is valid for five years. </p> <h3 id="section---MeetRenewalRequirements">Meet Renewal Requirements</h3> <p>Teachers must complete continuing professional education (CPE) hours to renew their certification. This requirement can be completed through several methods that have been approved by the Texas Education Agency. For example, teachers may submit CPE hours for obtaining a graduate degree, taking education workshops, or mentoring a junior teacher. The Texas Education Agency maintains an updated list of approved providers.</p>