Massachusetts teachers are committed professionals who shape the next generation. It is the ideal career for those who enjoy an interactive environment, have a passion for learning, and appreciate having a career that makes a difference. 

Massachusetts is looking for more quality teachers to join their schools. The teaching shortage has impacted the entire country, including Massachusetts. The state can proudly boast that its students are some of the most well-educated in the country. However, to keep that status, they need to curb the disturbing rise of their student-to-teacher ratio.

How to become a teacher in the United States depends on where you live. Each state has its own process. We at Teachers of Tomorrow will walk you through the pathways to becoming a teacher in Massachusetts, including alternative programs. We’ll also give you some tips to help make finding your first teaching job easier. 

Teacher and students classes

Is Teaching the Right Career for You? 

Teaching is a demanding yet fulfilling profession. It is not a standard 9-5 career. Planning, preparation, communicating with caregivers, and grading are often done outside of school hours, and some activities occur after the school day is complete. However, working with young people is mentally stimulating and comes with a host of rewards. 

Those who thrive as teachers enjoy an interactive career that shares knowledge and leads to discovery. Teachers love seeing their students develop and work towards goals. Educators take pleasure in having a meaningful role in their community and working collaboratively to benefit our youth. 

Those seeking high monetary rewards quickly become frustrated in a teaching career. Bonuses amongst educators come in the form of beaming smiles and handmade thank you cards. Other perks to working as a teacher include generous vacation allowance, healthcare and retirement packages, and fairly secure employment. 

Salaries and packages vary between school districts and US states. For instance, the average annual salary in Massachusetts is $92,307, whereas in Rhode Island it is $79,289.

State Requirements for Teaching in Massachusetts

Each US state has its own pathways to becoming a certified teacher. In Massachusetts, the process is overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). 

There are various routes to licensure in Massachusetts. Requirements also depend on a candidate’s grade level, teaching area, and specialty. The DESE has an interactive help guide to help candidates through the process. To access it, visit the DESE Licensure Page and click on License Requirements. 

The most popular route to becoming a teacher in Massachusetts is the traditional route. We have outlined the general steps below. 

1. Bachelor’s Degree

Massachusetts, like all US states, requires teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution. Ideally, the degree should be focused on elementary or secondary education. For those wishing to teach high grades, taking courses towards your desired teaching area, such as English or biology is essential. 

Examples of bachelor’s degrees or accelerated MEds available to Massachusetts teacher candidates include:

  • Early Childhood, BS 
  • Elementary Education, BS
  • Elementary Education, MEd (5-year degree)
  • Secondary Teacher Education, MEd (5-year degree)
  • Special Education, BA, EdS
  • Art Education, BFA
  • English Education, BS
  • Science Education, BS
  • Music Education, BM

A bachelor’s degree provides a bedrock of knowledge, skills, and tools to help a teaching candidate succeed as an educator. Courses cover many topics, including:

  • Curriculum, planning, and assessment. 
  • Creating an effective and safe classroom environment. 
  • Subject(s) knowledge.
  • Methods of instruction. 
  • Child development. 

2. Complete an Accredited Teacher Preparation Program

Completing an accredited teacher preparation program is a Massachusetts Initial License requirement. The length and requirements depend on the program. Many colleges and universities in Massachusetts incorporate the accredited teacher preparation program into a 5-year degree, where candidates are awarded a Master’s upon completion. 

However, some institutions award a bachelor’s degree, and the teacher preparation program is an additional year or two. 

3. Obtain The SEI Teacher Endorsement

Massachusetts requires many educators, including Core Academic Teachers, to have Sheltered English Immersion Endorsements (SEI). 

The following educators are defined in Massachusetts as Core Academic Teachers:

  • Early Childhood
  • Elementary
  • Teachers of students with moderate or severe disabilities
  • English 
  • Reading
  • Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Civics
  • Government
  • Economics 
  • History
  • Geography

Educator Preparation Programs in Massachusetts are supposed to offer the necessary courses to qualify for an SEI Teacher Endorsement.

However, there are alternative ways for candidates to obtain their SEI, including taking a DESE-approved assessment. 

Note that the requirement also extends to academic administrators and vocational educators. 

4. Complete a Background Check

Massachusetts takes youth safety seriously. Section 38R requires a criminal background check of anyone who has direct contact with children at school, including employees, volunteers, and student teachers. Teaching candidates must complete a background check before entering a school for fieldwork and student teaching. 

Teachers must have a background check done every three years. However, a background check may be required more frequently. For instance, many new hires at a school must have a background check done even if they recently had one for their student teaching. 

5. Gain Student Teaching Experience

Student teaching experience and fieldwork are part of the traditional pathway teacher preparation programs. Teaching candidates need at least 150 hours. Usually, student teachers work for no pay. 

However, due to the teaching shortage, a student teacher is sometimes asked to work as a substitute in a short-term or long-term position. If invited for the latter opportunity, there may be more requirements and paperwork to complete. 

6. Pass Massachusetts Teaching Exams

Massachusetts requires teaching candidates to take the MTEL exam or take part in the alternative assessment (available through June 30, 2025). 

The MTEL is not a singular test. There are general requirements and subject matter tests for specific areas of licensure. Candidates must determine which tests they must pass to achieve their teaching goals. 

7. Get Certified

To get certified, Massachusetts teaching candidates must apply for their Initial license through the DESE Educator Licensure and Renewal system (ELAR). A step-by-step guide can be downloaded to help candidates create an ELAR account, explain the various licenses, how to navigate the systems and the stages of the license application review process. 

8. Consider Getting a Master’s Degree

Massachusetts teachers do not need a master’s degree to be licensed or hired. However, many colleges and universities in the state offer master’s to traditional candidates through an accelerated option. 

Other teachers in the state obtain their master’s while completing the professional development requirements needed for renewing their licenses. 

Advantages of having a master’s degree include:

  • Raising your desirability when applying for a teaching position. 
  • Puts a teacher in a higher pay bracket. 
  • Opens doors to exciting opportunities. 
  • It is a necessary step to becoming a school administrator, such as a principal. 

Alternative Route to Teaching in Massachusetts

Not everyone feels called to teaching when they graduate high school. Many get a bachelor’s degree and join the workforce, serve in the military, or start a family before deciding to become a professional educator. Alternative routes make switching careers easier and more affordable. 

Massachusetts prefers candidates to use a traditional teacher preparation program to become a teacher rather than an alternative provider. A bachelor’s degree is required, and the steps are the same. It generally takes around 2 years. 

However, due to the teaching shortage, candidates can apply for a Provisional License and teach while completing the Massachusetts Initial License requirements. 

Provisional License Requirements in Massachusetts 

A Provisional teaching license is valid for 5 years. A candidate is expected to complete their Initial License requirements during those 5 years.

To qualify for a Provisional License, a candidate must:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree.
  • Pass the relevant tests, including MTEL and subject matter.

Note that a background check will be required to teach in a Massachusetts school.

Getting Hired as a Teacher

Massachusetts needs teachers, but not all schools are impacted by the shortage. Positions in higher-paying districts are eagerly sought. Putting your best self forward is essential if you want to stand out from other applicants in these highly desirable positions. 

Below are some top tips for landing the teaching role you want in Massachusetts. 

Polish Your CV

Polish your CV before applying for a teaching position. First impressions matter, and your CV frequently acts as the initial introduction when job hunting. Thus, you want it to look its best. 

Top tips for producing a polished CV: 

  • Research teaching CV formats and layouts. Don’t just look on Pinterest, where certain aesthetics might look cute to an influencer but unprofessional to school administrators. Talk to people in the industry and see if you can source some examples. 
  • Ask for feedback. We know constructive criticism is useful; that’s why teachers provide it for students on their assignments and tests. So show your draft CV to people you respect, such as mentors, coaches, instructors, business owners, or someone in HR. With their valuable input, you can make your CV shine. 
  • Edit and proofread. It has long been known that humans struggle to catch their own typos. Our brains “see” what they expect instead of what is really there. To help your brain focus, use tricks like changing the font or using Microsoft’s “Read Aloud.” There are also spelling and grammar-checking tools to help. If you have a friend who works as an editor, beg them to give your CV a read. 

Once your CV is perfect, save it as a template. The modern workplace does not like generic CVs. Instead, they want applicants to tailor their CV for the specific job. Use your template to make a bespoke version for each position you apply. 

Lastly, read your CV again before sending it out. There is always one last error lurking, so do your best to catch it. 

Upgrade Your Skill Set

Teachers should upgrade their skill sets to help their CVs stand out. Educators with experience teaching can boost their skills through professional development courses. Those who are looking for their first full-time teaching job can consider the following opportunities to expand their skills: 

Teaching skills that schools want from educators include: 

  • Multitasking: Teachers are metaphorical jugglers while doing an obstacle course backward. They can out multitask any multitasker. For example, when instructing, they monitor students’ engagement, minimize disruption, and adapt lessons on the spot to create a more favorable outcome. 
  • Communication: Teachers need to be heard and understood to ensure lessons are successful and to be active listeners. They use these same communication skills to work together with caregivers, parents, colleagues, and community leaders. Excellent educators are comfortable using many tools to stay in touch, including apps, email, texts, and newsletters. 
  • Versatile: Teachers must thrive in ever-changing situations and environments. Children create unexpected and unique situations. Successful educators are flexible, can adapt to sudden changes, and mold lessons, assignments, and activities to fit the current classroom temperature and ensure engagement. 
  • Conflict resolution: Any institution where two or more gather attracts conflict. People’s opinions and personalities are not always in harmony. Teachers must use conflict resolution tools and techniques to ensure their classes are safe and productive for all their students. They must also find ways to build partnerships and work through disagreements with parents, guardians, and fellow staff to reach goals that benefit the students and school. 
  • Computer literacy: Children will be expected to navigate the modern workforce. Teachers must stay up-to-date with the latest technology and find innovative ways to integrate it into lessons and activities. 

Begin Your Job Search

Massachusetts teacher candidates should begin their job search by visiting Mass.gov and looking at their current openings. 

Also, have a look at other online sites, such as the following: 

Lastly, reach out to schools directly. Ask them to keep your CV on file if a position is unavailable.

Join a Professional Organization and Network

Massachusetts teaching candidates will benefit by joining a professional organization. These groups provide support and advocacy and expand an educator’s network. They are excellent sources to hear about changes in laws and policies, new opportunities, and job openings. 

Professional organizations in Massachusetts to consider include:

Ace Your Job Interview

A job interview is required to land a teacher position. Don’t stress. Our top tips will help the process go smoother.

  • Create a list of questions. Research the school and job position. Learn everything you can and use the information to create a list of thoughtful and well-considered questions. They should be well crafted, showing you’ve put time into looking into their school and invested critical thinking into wanting to learn more. Make the list long, as some questions will be answered over the course of the interview.  
  • Practice answering interview questions. Every teacher interview is unique, but there are some popular questions. Practice ahead of time. The exercise will work your brain and allow you to consider your answers. Use a friend to help if you can. Also, record your practice sessions, even if you are alone. The video will help you evaluate your posture, hand gestures, and mannerisms. Also, listen for any areas of speech you might want to reduce, such as saying “um” a lot. 
  • Bring your portfolio. Yes, you already sent the school a great deal about yourself electronically. People still like to see and touch in real-time. Bring copies of your CV. Pack your transcripts. Have a lesson plan, activity, or project ready to show off. Schools adore people who are organized and come prepared. 
  • Be an active listener. Dominating an interview isn’t the way to win a job. Yes, the school needs to learn about you. But they don’t do that just by the way you talk. They also evaluate if you are a team player, somebody who can collaborate with others to make the school successful. When others are speaking, use body language to demonstrate active listening. Sit straight, face who is speaking, and don’t cross your arms over your chest. Nod, and give appropriate verbal cues to show you are engaged. When answering questions, refer to what others have said to demonstrate that you are participating in a conversation, not just speaking at them.

Career Outlook & Salary in Massachusetts

Educators are in high demand in Massachusetts due to the nation’s teacher shortage. In addition, employment data suggests a 10% job growth for educators in the state. 

Massachusetts is one of the best-paying states in the country, currently ranked #3. However, lawmakers understand the need to do more. At the start of 2024, they began working on a bill to raise the minimum salaries of teachers and support staff. The DESE also has financial aid and loan forgiveness opportunities for qualifying educators. 

According to the US Department of Education Teacher Shortage Areas Reports, Massachusetts is most desperate for the following educators:

  • Computer Science. 
  • English as a Second Language.
  • Social Studies.
  • Special Education
  • Mathematics.
  • Science.
  • World Languages.
  • Language Arts.

Become a Teacher in Massachusetts

If you want to teach, then Massachusetts is an excellent state to do it. In 2024, they were ranked the #1 best state to live in. They are praised for their excellence in education and health. In addition, they were ranked 5th lowest in crime in the United States. 

The diverse state is full of history and tradition. They take sports seriously and are proud of their wealth of fantastic food. Yes, there is lobster, but they have so much more. 

Massachusetts is a state where there is always something to do. There are beaches and forests to enjoy, antique shops to explore, and museums and galleries to discover.

Teachers in Massachusetts are proud of the excellent education they provide for the next generation. If you are eager to join these dedicated professionals, contact Teachers of Tomorrow, the largest national alternative certification provider. We’re here to help you change lives and invest in dreams.