School Teaching Requirements in Maryland, MD
Maryland, ranking 19th in population, has 869,113 students. There are 1,424 public schools, broken down into 866 elementary, 240 middle, and 237 high schools. Maryland’s SAT scores are up this year, matching the national average, the state attributes the increase in scores to the substantial gains in minority scores which largely go underrepresented in standardized testing. Maryland has a graduation rate of 74% which is above average, and maintains an average high school to college enrollment ratio.
Maryland Teaching Certification Requirements:
- Conditional Teaching Certificate (valid for 2 years)
- Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university
- Complete an approved Maryland Teacher Preparation Program
- Take and Pass the Praxis I: Basic Skills Test
- Take and Pass the Praxis II test in appropriate subject matter
- Fulfill state fingerprinting requirements
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete the certification application packed, including transcripts, certifications, and references
- Pay any applicable fees
Maryland Standard Professional Teaching Certificate:
The Standard Professional Certificate is issued upon review after the initial 2 year license has expired, this license is then valid for a period of 5 years after which it must be renewed.
Some districts may require additional training and certification.
Maryland Teacher Employment Outlook:
Maryland is looking for new teachers, and is encouraging them by starting mentor programs, even some districts requiring mentorship. Many studies have shown that being mentored by a highly qualified teacher greatly improves teaching skill, so employment in Maryland is very attractive right now. Maryland also values it’s highly qualified teachers, and in receiving the National Board Certification there is also the opportunity to enjoy an increased salary expectation. There are a few sites online the school districts have posted job offerings for, specific to school and district, although most of those positions are directed towards current teachers with high qualifications. On the whole the teaching industry has proved to be a relatively safe job market, and even through the volatile job market of the recession Maryland 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.
Maryland Teacher Salary Expectation:
Maryland remains ranked 10th nationally in salary for the third year in a row with the average teacher making $56,896 in 2009-2010 (according to bls.gov). Student enrollment in Maryland has remained fairly consistent, with the obvious fluctuation due to a growing state population. Comparatively speaking, teachers in Maryland make above average salary then the state average income, as well as much higher wages then teachers nationally. Higher salaries do go to those with special qualifications such as board certification, so an even higher salary is certainly possible.