School Teaching Requirements in Idaho, ID

So, you want to become a teacher in Idaho, home of the ‘Idahoans’. Need some help getting a push in the right direction? Well congratulations, you landed here and that’s a good start. Let’s begin by looking at the overview of the teaching industry in Idaho. As of last year there were approximately 251,712 students in the state. Idaho has 703 public schools, broken down into 347 elementary, 111 middle, and 180 high schools. Teachers in Idaho had an average salary of $41,150 in 2009-2010 (according to bls.gov), with incrementally higher salaries going to those with higher qualifications. Let’s take a look at what acquiring a teaching license takes.

Preliminary Requirements:

Interim Teaching Certificate in Idaho

Idaho Teacher Certification

  • Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution.
  • Complete a State Approved Teacher Educator Program (SATEP)
  • College coursework must be consistent with the Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Plan.
  • Pass the Praxis I Basic Skills Assessment Test administered by the Educational Testing Services.
  • Pass the Praxis II Content Knowledge Assessment.
  • Pass a criminal background check.
  • Some schools and districts may have additional requirements.

Applying for Teachers Accreditation in Idaho

After satisfying these requirements, you must then fill out the Interim Certificate packet. Required information includes references as well as documentation and transcripts for Colleges. Some schools may require additional specific subject matter coursework and testing, so make sure to check with the individual district requirements.

What next?

Once you have fulfilled these requirements and submitted the appropriate paperwork, you should look into receiving national board teacher certification, as most schools offer financial incentive to those who have one. The Interim Certificate is valid for a period of 3 years at which you must obtain an Initial Certificate, which is valid for 5 more years.