Frequently Asked Questions
Becoming a Minnesota Teacher
What governmental body grants licenses for teaching?
The Minnesota Board of Teaching (BoT) is responsible for granting licenses under statutes approved by the legislature. The Board of Teaching is separate from the Minnesota Department of Education, but has offices at the same address: 1500 Highway 36 West, Roseville, MN 55113-4266 Phone 651/582-8833.
More about the Board of Teaching
What are the requirements for a teaching license in Minnesota?
Minnesota operates under a system of standards rather than a number of credits. The Standards of Effective Practice govern teaching in all areas. There are additional content standards by subject areas and grade levels. The standards are linked to the BoT website listed above. Teacher preparation programs must include instruction and assessment of those standards. Three tests are also used to demonstrate the standards:
- Praxis I: Academic Skills Assessments (PPST)
- Professional knowledge Praxis II: Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT).
- Content/subject matter Praxis II: Subject Assessments and Specialty Area Tests
More about testing requirements
What are the methods for getting a Minnesota teaching license?
There are four options for gaining a license.
1. A college or university program: The college or university defines a program that meets the teaching standards and is approved by the Board of Teaching. Students that complete the program are recommended for licensure by their institution and approved by the Board of Teaching. Some licensure programs are part of an undergraduate program and others are designed for students that already have a bachelor’s degree. Each Minnesota state university offers teacher licensure programs approved by the Board of Teaching and can recommend students who complete their programs for Minnesota teaching licenses.
2. Portfolio Process: A candidate submits a portfolio to the Board of Teaching to demonstrate mastery of the standards. Evidence can include college classes, professional development and teaching experience.
3. Transfer of License: A person who is licensed in another state or has completed a teacher preparation program in another state can submit credentials and transcripts to the Board of Teaching for evaluation and the granting of a license.
4. Alternative Licensing Program: A college or other organization can develop a program that completes the teaching standards and have it approved by the Board of Teaching. This process is still under development.
How does a teacher add a new license area?
The same processes apply. The portfolio process is well suited for adding a licensure area, especially if a teacher has teaching experience or professional development in the desired licensure area.
