How to Become a Teacher In Pennsylvania – What to Know in 2024

Pennsylvania has 500 school districts, educating about 1.9 million K-12 students. Of these students, 88% attend public schools. 

However, the state is facing a severe teacher shortage, which has created a growing demand for qualified educators. The teacher shortage is especially dire in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) subjects. 

Schools across the state are struggling to find enough qualified teachers, with most positions being covered by substitute teachers.

If you’ve ever considered becoming a teacher in Pennsylvania, now is a great time to seize the opportunity and make an impact.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about getting certified as a teacher, from the qualifications to the steps involved in earning your license. 

Let’s learn how you can make a difference in the classroom.

Overview of the Teaching Situation in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is facing a major challenge with a teacher shortage. The state’s public school system serves over 1.7 million K–12 students

The teacher shortage in Pennsylvania is directly affecting the quality of education. With fewer teachers available, class sizes have increased, making it harder for students to get the individual attention they need.

Additionally, some schools are hiring less-experienced or uncertified teachers to fill gaps, which lowers the quality of instruction. This shortage also puts more pressure on existing teachers, leading to burnout and further turnover.

At the same time, Pennsylvania has a high standard for teacher certification, requiring testing and continuous professional development. This helps ensure that teachers are well-qualified, but it also means that the certification process can take time and effort. 

Despite these challenges, the demand for new, qualified teachers continues to grow. This is a great opportunity for aspiring teachers. Once certified, educators in Pennsylvania can expect stable, long-term employment.

Steps to Becoming a Teacher in Pennsylvania

If you’re ready to start your journey toward becoming a teacher in Pennsylvania, there are several steps you’ll need to follow. 

You must meet the educational requirements to earn your certification. Each step is designed to prepare you for success in the classroom.

In this section, we’ll walk you through the entire process so you know exactly what to expect to become a certified teacher in the state.

1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to becoming a teacher in Pennsylvania is earning a bachelor’s degree. This degree must be from an accredited college or university. 

If you know you want to become a teacher early on, you should choose a major in education or a subject you plan to teach, like math, science, or English. For example, if you want to teach high school biology, you might major in biology and take additional education courses.

In Pennsylvania, teacher preparation programs are built into education degrees. These programs include coursework on teaching methods, classroom management, and child development. You’ll also learn how to create lesson plans and assess student progress.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field but want to switch to teaching, you can enroll in an alternative certification program. This pathway allows you to complete the necessary education and training to become a teacher without starting from scratch.

2. Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

The next step is to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program. This program is essential for providing you with the skills to be an effective teacher.

Most bachelor’s degree programs in education include a teacher preparation component, but if your degree is in a different field, you’ll need to find a program that offers certification. These programs cover various topics, such as teaching methods, classroom management, and instructional strategies.

You must also complete a student teaching experience as part of your preparation program. This hands-on training allows you to work in a real classroom under the supervision of an experienced teacher. 

For instance, if you’re enrolled in a teacher preparation program for elementary education, you might spend a semester teaching in a third-grade classroom, where you’ll get to practice teaching subjects like math and reading while receiving feedback from your mentor teacher.

During student teaching, you will practice creating lesson plans, teaching lessons, and managing a classroom. This experience helps you apply what you’ve learned in your courses to actual teaching situations.

3. Pass the Required Certification Exams

After completing your bachelor’s degree and teacher preparation program, the next important step is to pass the required state-specific certification exams. 

In Pennsylvania, you need to take the Praxis exams or the Pennsylvania Educator Certification Tests (PECT) if you’re an aspiring early education or special education teacher.

The Praxis exams include:

• Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This test measures your basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. You need to pass this exam to demonstrate that you have the foundational skills needed for teaching.
• Praxis Subject Assessments: These exams test your knowledge of the subject area you wish to teach. For example, if you want to teach high school chemistry, you would take the Praxis Subject Assessment for Chemistry.
• Foundations of Reading Assessment: If you plan to teach early childhood or elementary education, you must pass this assessment to show that you understand how to teach reading effectively.

As mentioned, teachers in Pennsylvania in early childhood education (PreK-4) and special education (PreK-8) take the PECT exams.

The PECT consists of :

• Module 1: This module assesses the foundational knowledge needed for teaching, including child development, learning environments, and instructional strategies.
• Module 2: This module focuses on subject-specific knowledge, evaluating candidates on their understanding of content areas such as literacy, math, and science, as well as how to effectively teach these subjects to young children.

In addition to the written tests, candidates are required to complete performance-based assessments that demonstrate their teaching abilities in real classroom situations.

4. Get Certified

Once you have completed your education, teacher preparation program, and passed the required certification exams, the next step is to obtain your teaching certification in Pennsylvania. 

Here’s how to get your teaching license:

1. Apply for certification through the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). This is done online using the PDE’s Teacher Information Management System (TIMS). You’ll create an account and complete the necessary information, including your educational background and exam scores.
2. With your application, you need to submit additional supporting documents.. These include your degree, transcripts, exam scores, and all other required documents.
3. Pennsylvania requires all educators to undergo background checks to ensure the safety of students. You must submit your clearances, including the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check, the Child Abuse History Clearance, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Criminal Background Check.
4. After submitting your application and documents, the PDE will review your materials. This process can take several weeks. If everything checks off, you’ll be presented with your teaching certification.
5. Once approved, you will be issued your Instructional I certificate, which allows you to start teaching in Pennsylvania. This certification is valid for six years, during which you’ll need to complete professional development requirements to move on to the Level II certificate.

5. Applying for Teaching Jobs in Pennsylvania

After you have obtained your teaching certification, the next step is to apply for teaching jobs in Pennsylvania.

Start by researching job openings in Pennsylvania’s school districts. You can visit websites like the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s job portal, school district websites, or job boards specifically for educators, such as Education Week or Indeed.

Look for positions that match your certification area, grade level, and interests.

When applying for teaching jobs, you will need a professional resume highlighting your education, certifications, teaching experience, and relevant skills or accomplishments. You’ll also need a personalized cover letter for each job application.

If your application is approved, you could be called for an interview. Prepare by researching the school or district, understanding its values, and being ready to discuss your teaching methods, classroom management strategies, and how you plan to support student learning. 

Certification Requirements in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Department of Education offers teaching certifications for various educational roles and levels. 

In this section, we’ll provide details on the main certifications available and the requirements and qualifications for each.

1. Instructional I Certificate

The Instructional I Certificate is the entry-level teaching certification in Pennsylvania. It is designed for individuals who have completed their education and are ready to begin their teaching careers. 

To obtain an Instructional I Certificate, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
• Successfully finish a state-approved teacher preparation program.
• Pass the required certification exams, Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Assessments or the PECT, depending on the teaching area.

This initial certificate is valid for six years. Teachers gain classroom experience during this time and should begin their professional development.

The Instructional I Certificate allows holders to teach in various grade levels, depending on their specific certification area. 

After completing the requirements for professional development and obtaining three years of satisfactory teaching experience under the Instructional I Certificate, teachers can apply for the Level II Certificate.

2. Instructional II Certificate

The Instructional II Certificate is an advanced teaching certification in Pennsylvania that recognizes educators who have gained experience and completed further professional development. 

To qualify for the Instructional II Certificate, teachers must:

• Hold a valid Instructional I Certificate.
• Complete at least three years of satisfactory teaching experience in a Pennsylvania school under the Instructional I Certificate.
• Complete at least 24 credits of professional development or graduate-level coursework. This can be workshops, advanced degree programs, or specialized training relevant to teaching.

The Instructional II Certificate is valid for life as long as the educator continues to meet ongoing professional development requirements. 

With an Instructional II Certificate, teachers have access to additional opportunities within their school districts, such as leadership roles, mentoring positions, or specialized programs. It also enhances job prospects when applying for teaching positions.

After earning the Instructional II Certificate, educators should participate in professional development focused on improving teaching practices, subject knowledge, and developing leadership skills. 

Certification Application Fees

Becoming a certified teacher in Pennsylvania involves various costs associated with the certification process. 

You must understand these fees in order to budget for your journey into the teaching profession. 

The table below outlines the different fees associated with obtaining and maintaining teaching certifications in the state.

Initial Instructional I Certificate	$125
Upgrade to Instructional II Certificate	$100
Addition of Subject Endorsement (add a subject area to your certification)	$75 per subject
Renewal of Instructional II Certificate	No fee required

Requirements for Out-of-State Teachers

Reciprocity is the ability of educators certified in one state to obtain certification in another state without having to go through the entire certification process from scratch. 

Pennsylvania has established reciprocity agreements with several other states, making it easier for qualified teachers to transition and teach in the state. 

These agreements recognize teachers’ credentials and experiences, allowing them to apply for certification in Pennsylvania based on their existing qualifications. 

There are two pathways for teachers seeking to leverage reciprocity to gain certification in Pennsylvania.

1. Valid Standard Certificate Issued by Another State

Out-of-state teachers holding a valid, standard teaching certificate comparable to Pennsylvania’s Instructional I Certificate can apply for Pennsylvania certification through reciprocity. 

Teachers must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to qualify.

The state certification exams must be comparable to Pennsylvania’s certification standards. If their previous tests are not deemed equivalent, some out-of-state teachers may be required to pass Pennsylvania’s exams.

2. National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Certificate

Teachers with valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certificates can also qualify for Pennsylvania certification. 

The NBPTS Certificate is a prestigious credential that recognizes teachers with high levels of expertise and commitment to their profession. 

Achieving this certification involves a thorough assessment process, including evaluating teaching practices, student work, and a comprehensive portfolio. 

The NBPTS Certificate focuses on improving teaching quality and student learning by emphasizing reflective practice, continuous growth, and a deep understanding of the subject matter.

If you hold a valid NBPTS Certificate, you can apply for certification in Pennsylvania through the reciprocity pathway. 

Pennsylvania’s Certification Renewal Requirements

The teacher certification renewal requirements depend on the type of certificate held. Below are the key renewal requirements for Instructional I and Instructional II Certificates:

• Instructional I Certificate: This certificate is valid for six years of active teaching. Teachers must fulfill the requirements to upgrade to an Instructional II Certificate within this time frame. This includes completing three to six years of teaching experience and earning 24 post-baccalaureate credits. Failure to upgrade within the six years could result in the certificate expiring, preventing you from continuing to work in Pennsylvania schools.
• Instructional II Certificate: Once upgraded to an Instructional II Certificate, it’s permanent and does not require renewal. However, you must complete ongoing professional development to maintain your certification. This involves completing 180 hours of continuing education or equivalent coursework over a five-year period to stay current with teaching methods and subject knowledge. The professional development requirement ensures that educators remain effective and up-to-date in their fields.

Salary Expectations for Pennsylvania Teachers

Teacher salaries in Pennsylvania vary significantly based on experience, education level, district location, and the specific subject area taught.

As of recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for teachers in Pennsylvania is approximately $68,141 per year. However, this figure can change depending on the factors mentioned above.

Urban districts, such as Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, offer higher salaries compared to rural districts to cover the high cost of living.

Additionally, there is a higher demand for teachers in STEM  and special education. Teachers command higher salaries due to the shortage of qualified educators in these fields.

In addition to their base salary, teachers receive additional compensation through stipends for coaching sports, leading clubs, or taking on extra duties. Benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave also contribute to the compensation.

Pennsylvania Teacher Shortages

As stated, Pennsylvania, like many states, is facing serious teacher shortages, especially in special education, math, science, and English as a Second Language (ESL). 

Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Education shows that these areas need more teachers because the number of students requiring special help is growing. Still, there aren’t enough qualified educators available.

• Special Education: There are not enough certified special education teachers, which is a big concern since more students need individualized education plans (IEPs). Schools in both urban and rural areas are having a hard time filling these important positions.
• Math and science: There is a high demand for math and science teachers. There is a strong push to improve STEM education for future careers, but the number of qualified teachers has not kept up, especially for middle and high school students.
• ESL (English as a Second Language): As more students whose first language is not English enroll in schools, the need for ESL-certified teachers is increasing. Pennsylvania’s diverse student body requires teachers who can help English language learners succeed in both language skills and academic subjects.

These shortages create job opportunities for new teachers to focus on these crucial areas, helping to meet the needs of students throughout the state.

Start Teaching in Pennsylvania

Becoming a teacher in Pennsylvania is a great chance to contribute to your community. 

Pennsylvania offers a supportive environment for teachers, with competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and the ability to specialize in high-demand subjects.

If you’re passionate about education and want to help students succeed, now is the perfect time to start your journey. 

Pennsylvania needs qualified teachers, especially in special education, math, science, and ESL. You can help fill these critical roles and make a lasting impact in the classroom. 

Begin the journey toward a thriving career as a teacher in Pennsylvania.