School Teacher Requirements in Missouri, MO
Missouri, ranking 18th in population, has 916,842 students. There are 2,439 public schools, broken down into 1,244 elementary, 380 middle, and 569 high schools. Missouri’s SAT scores hare above average by about 100 points, which is fairly impressive considering the large majority of students taking the test. Missouri has a graduation rate of 82.4% which is above average, and maintains an average high school to college enrollment ratio.
Find Additional Pages About:
- Education: Path to Become a Teacher
- Becoming a Teacher in Missouri
- Teacher Certification and Credential in Missouri
- Substitute Teaching Requirements in Missouri
Missouri Teacher Certification Requirements:
- Class A Teaching Certificate (valid for 5 years)
- Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university
- Complete an approved Missouri Teacher Preparation Program
- Take and pass the Praxis I: Basic Skills Test
- Take and Pass the Praxis II subject test in desired course material
- Fulfill state fingerprinting requirements
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete the certification application packed, including transcripts, certifications, and references
- Pay any applicable fees
Some districts may require additional training and certification.
Missouri Teaching Career Employment Outlook:
Despite the fact Missouri has been struggling with budget issues, they are now hiring teachers and are even giving incentive by providing loans and such for Missouri teachers. Recently Missouri passed a budget increase for the education system, and as such is looking for more teachers to lower the high teacher student ratio in the state. There are a few sites online the school districts have posted job offerings for, specific to school and district, however most listed positions are looking for teachers with past experience and high qualifications. The teaching industry has proved to be a relatively stable job market, and even through the turbulent job market of the recession Missouri teachers faired well. As in any state, it is a good idea to have a Masters or PhD as that is certainly an eye catcher for prospective employers, as well as increased salary opportunities.
Missouri Teacher Salary Expectation:
Missouri is up from 43th to 41th ranked nationally in salary with the average teacher making $42,750 in 2009-2010 (according to bls.gov). New budget allowances have made average teaching salaries in Missouri increase, as well as new jobs being offered and this trend should continue. Although Missouri has one of the lowest teacher salaries in the nation, the cost of living in Missouri is also fairly low which helps recoup some of the lost salary. Also by getting highly qualified teaching statues you have the ability to potentially increase your salary.