Common Challenges in Teacher Certification in Tennessee
| by Hannah Sparling
Earning your Tennessee teaching license is an exciting step toward a rewarding, fulfilling career. With a growing population and a strong commitment to education, the Volunteer State offers plenty of opportunity for new educators.
However, the path to licensure can present some hurdles. And if you’re interested in a teaching career in Tennessee but feeling a little uneasy about the process or unsure where to start, you are not alone.
This post will walk you through some of the most common challenges aspiring teachers face in Tennessee. Then, we’ll cover 4 strategies to overcome those challenges and navigate your path to licensure with confidence.
Myth vs. Fact: What You Really Need to Know
Let’s clear up some common misconceptions to give you a realistic picture of what to expect:
Myth: “Teacher shortages mean anyone can get a Tennessee teaching license.”
Fact: It’s true that Tennessee is facing teacher shortages, with an expected 4,800 job openings every year for elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers from now through 2032. But this doesn’t mean the state is lowering its standards. Tennessee requires teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree, complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP), pass comprehensive certification exams, and complete a background check. This ensures every classroom is led by a highly qualified educator.
Myth: “Licensure rules vary district by district in Tennessee.”
Fact: Licensure requirements are established at the state level by the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE), ensuring consistency and high standards across the state. However, different districts may have different hiring needs and offer varied levels of support (financial or otherwise) for aspiring teachers. So, if you have a particular district or region where you’re interested in teaching, it may be beneficial to research their specific needs, hiring priorities, and support systems for new teachers.
Myth: “I need my Practitioner License before I can even start looking for a teaching job.”
Fact: The Practitioner License is the initial license for new teachers in Tennessee. But you could still teach in Tennessee with a Temporary Teaching Permit if you don’t yet meet all the requirements for your Practitioner License. The temporary permit is meant to help districts fill high-demand positions where a fully licensed teacher isn’t available.
Common Certification Challenges Aspiring Teachers Face in Tennessee
Here are some of the most significant challenges and how they might affect your journey:
Cost, Time, and Geographic Challenges
For many, the cost and time commitment of an EPP can be a major barrier. Traditional, on-campus programs can be expensive and inflexible, making them difficult for working professionals or those with children or other responsibilities. Additionally, geographic location can limit access to quality preparation programs, particularly for people in rural parts of the state.
Rigorous Licensure Exams
Aspiring teachers in Tennessee must pass content-specific exams based on the grades and subjects they wish to teach as well as overarching exams that cover teaching skills and knowledge. Preparing for and passing these exams requires time, effort, and often financial investment.
Confusion About the Process
What are the requirements for teacher licensure in Tennessee? What’s the first step? What comes next? For some, the process can feel opaque and overwhelming, discouraging potential teachers from making the leap.
How to Overcome Tennessee’s Certification Challenges
These 4 strategies can help you navigate the challenges and achieve your goal of becoming a licensed teacher in Tennessee.
#1: Explore Alternative Certification Programs
If a traditional, in-person program feels unmanageable (maybe you’re working full-time; maybe you have small children at home or can’t manage the commute), consider an alternative Educator Preparation Program. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is 100% online and can be completed in as little as 9 months from anywhere in the world. You’ll have a live, virtual class once a week (you choose the day and time of your class), and the rest of your work is done online on your own schedule. This flexibility allows you to balance your studies with work and other commitments, making the path to licensure more accessible.
#2: Hunt for Financial Support
There are tons of resources and support for teachers, so before you write a check for your EPP tuition, spend some time researching what options may be available to you:
- Does your school or district offer tuition reimbursement? Many do, so it’s an important question to ask (and could be an important factor in your job search as well, especially if you’re planning to teach full-time while you earn your license).
- If you can’t get tuition coverage, does your EPP have an option for financing or monthly payments so you can spread out the cost?
- Are there any grants or scholarships you can apply for? These are especially common for teachers going into high-need subject areas like STEM or special education. Sometimes a little research on the front end can end up saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
#3: Be Strategic with Your Exam Prep
Take advantage of test prep guides and workshops to boost your confidence. If you like studying with a partner or in a group, look for online or in-person meetups. Be methodical about your preparation and focus your time and energy on any areas where you tend to struggle.
Spread out your preparation. Studying a little at a time over a longer period is much more effective (and less stressful) than last-minute cramming.
And remember to give yourself grace. No one is perfect, and if you fail an exam the first time around, you can take it again. That knowledge can relieve some of the pressure and allow you to perform your best.
#4: Take 1 Step at a Time
If you’re overwhelmed by the process, take a deep breath and take a step back. You don’t have to do everything at once. Break the process down and focus on your first move. If you need a little help, our Guide to Teacher Certification in Tennessee outlines your options and simplifies the process.
FAQ
Which subject areas face the biggest certification and staffing shortages in Tennessee?
Tennessee consistently faces shortages in high-need areas such as special education, English as a Second Language (ESL), and pre-K. Aspiring teachers who pursue certification in these fields will find strong demand for their skills.
How do temporary teaching licenses work in Tennessee?
A Temporary Teaching Permit is a one-year license that allows a Tennessee district to hire someone who has a bachelor’s degree but has not yet met full licensure requirements. The temporary permit is designed to fill urgent vacancies. The main limitation is that it is not a long-term solution; the holder must actively work toward full licensure by completing an EPP and passing the required exams.
What special considerations exist for rural Tennessee districts and teacher licensure?
Rural districts often face greater difficulties in recruiting and retaining licensed teachers. To address this, they may offer unique incentives, form strong community partnerships, and rely on “Grow Your Own” programs to cultivate a local pipeline of educators.
Do I have to attend an EPP in Tennessee to earn my license there?
No, you do not have to attend an Educator Preparation Program in Tennessee to earn your license. Tennessee recognizes out-of-state EPPs and offers pathways for candidates who have completed their training elsewhere. However, it is important to ensure that your program meets Tennessee’s licensure requirements and that all necessary documentation is submitted during the application process.
Earn your professional teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW program is fully accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.
Apply for free (the application only takes about 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back within 2 business days. Questions? Reach out for a 1:1 chat.
