School Teacher Requirements in Oregon, OR
Oregon, ranking 27th in population, has 543,800 students. There are 1,304 public schools, broken down into 727 elementary, 225 middle, and 235 high schools. Oregon ranks 10th in average combined SAT and ACT scores (the two most common national standardized tests), with an average SAT score of 927 and ACT score of 22.3. Oregon has about an average graduation rate of 76.7%.
Oregon Teaching Certification Requirements:
- Provisional Teaching Certificate (valid for 5 years)
- Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university
- Complete an approved Oregon Teacher Preparation Program
- Complete the Praxis I: Basic Skills Test
- Complete the Praxis II: Subject Matter Test in appropriate field/s
- Fulfill state fingerprinting requirements
- Pass a criminal background check through the state and FBI
- Complete the certification application packet, including transcripts, certifications, and references
- Pay any applicable fees
Some districts may require additional training and certification.
Employment Outlook For Teachers in Oregon:
Boasting one of the highest average standardized testing scores in the nation, Oregon is interested in hiring teachers that can maintain this standard. Ways to reflect that you can do this through your resume include training in standardized testing education, as well as higher certification including National Board Certification and higher degrees of qualification. Following the national trend, Oregon is also looking to expand its education in technology, so teachers with experience in areas such as computer science are valued as well. The teaching industry has proved to be a relatively stable job market, and even through the budget cuts of the recession teachers have 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 providing increased salary opportunities.
Salary Expectation for Teachers in Oregon:
Oregon is ranked 25th in the nation when it comes to teacher salaries, the average salary being $48,720 in 2009-2010 (according to bls.gov). In the last three years teachers in Oregon have seen an average 6.1% wage increase. Relative to average state and national income, Oregon teachers make a good living, and higher salary potential is available to those that achieve higher certifications and degrees.