Degree+Plan

Preparing to become a teacher takes a lot of dedication and preparation. Although some states practice reciprocity, teacher certification varies depending upon which state you certify in. West Virginia, home to American Public University System (APUS), and Pennsylvania, my home state, share some similarities, but also differ in their teacher certification process. As with securing most careers, it is essential to complete a degree program of at least your Bachelors in West Virginia, graduating with a 2.5 or greater GPA. Teachers wishing to receive their certification in West Virginia must complete “an educational preparation program delivered by an accredited institution of higher education, approved by the WVBE, and based upon state adopted program objectives and other requirements delivered by an accredited college or university and which has the endorsement of the WVBE” (WV Board of Education). This degree program needs to include twelve weeks of student teaching. In order to file for the professional certification, the applicant must be over the age of 18, a legal US citizen, and mentally and physically capable of carrying the requirements and expectations. Before submitting the application for professional certification, the applicant must also complete and pass the required Praxis testing (see requirements below) and have secured a national criminal history check, via FBI fingerprinting. After receiving the certification, the educator must complete a beginning educator internship. West Virginia also has alternative routes for certifications, including: internship (instead of six credit hours) and Transition to Teaching. Once an educator has received his/her teaching certificate (good for five years), he/she must work towards the permanent teaching certificate.

The process for applying for Pennsylvania certification is relatively different from that of West Virginia. In Pennsylvania, along with other states, we hold the education of our youth in very high regards. It seems to be a tedious task for the application process, but one well worth it. We must begin working towards our Instructional I teaching certificate through several steps. First we must complete at least a Bachelor’s degree program in Education from an accredited college or university, including a student teaching or intern teaching experience (my university required two practicum experiences and a student teaching experience) with a GPA 3.0. While completing your education for certification in education, you must also take and pass Praxis I: Reading, Writing, Mathematics, and Fundamental Knowledge: Content Knowledge and Praxis II (this test is based upon your content area. Once the testing and certification program are complete, you must submit a formal application to the PA department of education for your Instructional I certification. After 5 years of teaching and 180 hours of professional development, you may apply for your permanent Instructional II Certificate. Every 5 years, you must complete 180 Act 48 hours to maintain your certification.

The Praxis requirements are as follows for the two states (based on my certification in Elementary Education): WV- Praxis I: Reading *(174), Writing (172), Mathematics (172), Praxis II (this test is based upon your content area: Ex Elementary Education-155) and Principles of Learning and Teaching (165). PA-Praxis I including: Reading *(172), Writing (173), Mathematics (173), and Fundamental Knowledge: Content Knowledge (150) and Praxis II (this test is based upon your content area: Ex Elementary Education Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment-168).
 * Represents the minimum acceptable score for eligibility.

As a newer teacher, I want to broaden the resources that I have for ensuring that I provide the 21st century learner with an appropriate education. I plan to stay in Elementary or Middle School education, eventually stepping into a leadership role within a public school system. Through Instructional Leadership program, I hope to broaden knowledge and support as an educator, moving in the direction of preparing for leadership. Also, PA teaching positions require you to complete your Master’s degree. I hope to eventually continue on for my Doctorate, but we shall see what the future holds.