Checklist for Minnesota technology professionals exploring second careers in teaching
Back to second careers in teaching for technology professionals
I. Decide whether a second career in teaching will be right for you
- Volunteer in or visit math or science classrooms
- Talk to others who made a transition to teaching
- Research the demand for math and science teachers in the geographic areas where you are willing to live
- Contact school districts to find out the salaries for beginning teachers in the geographic areas where you are willing to live
- Determine the financial feasibility of supporting yourself and dependents during licensure preparation and full-time teaching
II. Explore options for becoming licensed as a teacher
- Learn the basics about Minnesota's teacher licensing system or the licensing system in the state where you are planning to teach
- Choose one or more licensure fields and student grades you want to pursue
- Identify what type of program will meet your needs
- Are you limited to a certain geographic area? Are you willing to move to attend on-campus classes?
- Do you have the motivation and computer know-how to pursue online courses?
- Are you able to devote full-time to a program that places you in a classroom while you are completing licensure requirements and/or accommodate the student teaching program?
- Choose one or more programs that meet your requirements in terms of licensure and program design
III. Prepare for admission to a teacher education program
- Check to make sure you meet minimum GPA and other admissions requirements which are specific to the program, including subject content requirements
- Request two official copies of transcripts from all higher education institutions you have attended
- Review web information on the additional documentation you will need to apply for admission, which may include:
- References
- Praxis I test
- Graduate Record Exam
- Resume
- Documented experience working with children
- Personal statement, essay or letter of application
- University admissions application
- Program admissions application
- Determine application deadlines
- Make appointment to review transcript
- Submit your application and other required documentation
