School Teacher Requirements in Rhode Island, RI
Pennsylvania, ranking 6th in population, has 1,821,146 students. There are 3,303 public schools, broken down into 1,917 elementary, 572 middle, and 619 high schools. Pennsylvania ranks 46th in average combined SAT and ACT scores (the two most common national standardized tests), with an average SAT score of 880 and ACT score of 21. Pennsylvania has an above average graduation rate of 82.7%.
Pennsylvania Teaching Certification Requirements:
- Provisional Teaching Certificate (valid for 5 years)
- Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university
- Complete an approved Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania:
Pennsylvania has been struggling in standardized testing the last few years, and as such is looking for teachers with high degrees of qualification. There are several ways to achieve highly qualified status including receiving National Board Certification and higher degrees of college education. Additional ways to pad your resume include completing a Pennsylvania Teacher Intern Certification Program where you receive additional training from a state appointed mentor. Following the national trend, Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania:
Pennsylvania is ranked 15th in the nation when it comes to teacher salaries, the average salary being $52,913 in 2009-2010 (according to bls.gov). In the last three years teachers in Pennsylvania have seen an average 4.74% wage increase. Relative to average state and national income, Pennsylvania teachers make a good living, and higher salary potential is available to those that achieve higher certifications and degrees.