School Teacher Requirements in Utah, UT
Utah, ranking 34th in population, has 491,206 public students. There are 899 public schools, broken down into 501 elementary, 142 middle, and 187 high schools. Utah ranks 7th in average combined SAT and ACT scores (the two most common national standardized tests), with an average SAT score of 1076 and ACT score of 21.5. Utah has about an average graduation rate of 74.3%.
Find Additional Pages About:
- Overview: Becoming a Teacher in Utah
- Utah Teacher Certification and Credential
- Utah Substitute Teaching Requirements
Teacher Certification Requirements in Utah:
- Initial Teaching Certificate (valid for 3 years)
- Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university
- Complete an approved Utah Teacher Preparation Program
- Take and pass the Praxis I: Basic Skills Test
- Take and pass the Praxis II: Content Subject Matter test in appropriate field/s
- Register with the UEN (Utah Educators Network)
- Fulfill state fingerprinting requirements
- Pass a criminal background check through the state and FBI
- Complete the certification application packet, including transcripts, certifications, and references
Some districts may require additional training and certification.
Employment Outlook for Teachers in Utah:
Utah has been struggling with budget problems the last few years, seeing average salaries drop 7% for 2 years in a row. As the nation comes out of the recession Utah hopes to be able to give additional funding to its educational system, but they are certainly struggling right now. The recession hit the Utah teacher job market harder then most, but teachers still faired better then the average worker. Utah does value its highly qualified teachers, as the state has been doing fairly well in standardized tests the last couple years, highly qualified status can be obtained by receiving national board certification or by gaining higher degree of accreditation. As in any state, it is a good idea to have a Masters or PhD as that is certainly an eye catcher for prospective employers, as well as providing increased salary opportunities.
Utah School Teachers Salary Expectation:
Utah is ranked 43rd in the nation when it comes to teacher salaries, the average salary being $49,900 in 2009-2010 (according to bls.gov). In the last three years teachers in Utah have seen an average 0.75% wage decrease. Despite the fact has seen budget issues, teachers have been increasing their salary by gaining additional accreditation and certification, as well as gaining teaching positions over the summer.