{"id":44161,"date":"2023-08-31T14:49:48","date_gmt":"2023-08-31T19:49:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.teachersoftomorrow.org\/?p=44161"},"modified":"2023-08-31T14:49:48","modified_gmt":"2023-08-31T19:49:48","slug":"how-to-become-a-teacher-in-iowa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.teachersoftomorrow.org\/blog\/insights\/how-to-become-a-teacher-in-iowa\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Become a Teacher in Iowa in 2023"},"content":{"rendered":"

Becoming a teacher in Iowa is an opportunity to work in an energizing environment while helping to provide a future for our youth. The profession often has a family-friendly work schedule and is an excellent outlet for creativity. Also, Iowa is a state that takes pride in education, ranked as having the <\/span>highest graduation rate<\/span><\/a> in the country in 2022.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The path to becoming a teacher depends on the state, as each has slightly different educational and licensing requirements. However, all are experiencing a shortage of quality educators. For instance, Iowa had approximately <\/span>35,535<\/span><\/a> teachers in 2022, which still isn’t enough to meet the <\/span>state’s educational needs<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Iowa’s need for quality teachers and commitment to education make it an attractive place to join the rewarding vocation. To help you begin your journey to becoming a teacher in Iowa, we’ve compiled a guide outlining the necessary steps and information.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Is Teaching the Right Career for You?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Teaching is a fulfilling vocation that touches lives in the classroom and community. But the profession is challenging, requiring diplomacy, empathy, resourcefulness, excellent listening skills<\/a>, and enthusiasm.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Many people feel called to the profession, wanting to make a difference while instilling a love of learning. They enjoy collaborating with others, including their colleagues and parents, to create activities that enrich their learners and the community.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While money is not the motivation to embark on a career in education, teaching often comes with excellent packages, including healthcare and dental. However, the exact benefits and salary depend on the state. For instance, the average annual salary in Iowa for 2023 is <\/span>$59,262,<\/span><\/a> whereas in Indiana it is <\/span>$54,126<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

State Requirements for Teaching in Iowa<\/span><\/h2>\n

State requirements for teachers vary across the country, each with their own educational requirements and licensing exams.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Even within a state, there may be differences depending if there is a shortage in that area, your chosen specialty, or the educational level you wish to work with: <\/span>primary<\/span><\/a>, secondary, or high school.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The <\/span>Iowa Department of Education (IDE)<\/span><\/a> determines the state’s requirements. Historically, the <\/span>Iowa Board of Educational Examiners (BOEE)<\/span><\/a> established the licensing and renewal requirements, although they are currently in the process of merging with the IDE.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Bachelor’s Degree<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    A bachelor’s degree is mandatory in Iowa, as it is in all states, regardless of whether you take the traditional or alternative pathways to become a teacher. IDE-approved traditional educator preparation programs are available in 29 of Iowa’s colleges and universities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    A bachelor’s degree is also required to use Iowa’s two alternative licensure programs. However, these are only available for those wishing to teach high school.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Obtaining a bachelor’s degree provides you with crucial knowledge and skills to help you flourish in your chosen career path, including the following:<\/span><\/p>\n