How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in Florida
| by Alex Skov
Becoming an elementary school teacher in Florida offers a fulfilling career that allows you to make a meaningful impact on young learners and help shape their lives. Whether you are just beginning your teaching journey or considering a career change, understanding the steps and requirements is key. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming an elementary school teacher in Florida, from initial certification to classroom success.
Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Florida
The pathway to becoming an elementary school teacher in Florida includes some unique elements. Elementary teachers must focus on specific education for younger children, often in several subjects, and need certification for grades K-6. If you’re pursuing a career in other grade levels or subjects, you may need to fulfill additional or different requirements, especially if you are pursuing a career in secondary education or specialized teaching areas.
For a deeper look into the certification process, check out our step-by-step guide to becoming a teacher in Florida, which provides an outline of what it takes to enter the teaching profession in the Sunshine State.
What Do You Need to Be an Elementary School Teacher in Florida?
To become an elementary school teacher in Florida, you’ll need to meet the following qualifications:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree: You must earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to become an elementary school teacher in Florida. While a degree in education is ideal, other degrees are acceptable if you complete a teacher preparation program.
- Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program: Florida requires that you complete a state-approved educator preparation institute such as TEACH-NOW, which can be part of your bachelor’s program or taken separately.
- Pass certification exams: Prospective elementary teachers must pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE), which can include the General Knowledge Test, a subject area exam for grades K-6, a professional education test, and a state-specific educational leadership exam.
- Complete fingerprinting and background check: All teachers must pass a background check before they can be hired by a public school district in Florida.
Steps to Becoming an Elementary School Teacher in Florida
The process of becoming an elementary school teacher in Florida includes several steps, which can be easily completed when approached one at a time:
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step is to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. It is not mandatory for this degree to be in education, though having a degree in education can simplify the process. If your degree is in a non-education field, you will need to complete additional coursework through a state-approved educator preparation institute (EPI).
- Complete a State-Approved Educator Preparation Institute (EPI)
After obtaining your bachelor’s degree, you will need to complete an educator preparation institute approved by the state of Florida. These programs are designed to provide you with essential teaching skills, such as classroom management, lesson planning, and instructional strategies. You can choose to complete this program as part of your bachelor’s degree or separately through programs like Moreland’s TEACH-NOW EPI.
- Pass the Required Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE)
Next, you’ll need to pass three key exams as art of the FTCE:
- The General Knowledge Test evaluates basic reading, writing, math, and English language skills.
- The Subject Area Examination tests your knowledge of elementary education subjects (grades K-6).
- The Professional Education Test assesses your teaching skills and professional practices.
- Apply for Certification
Once you’ve met the educational and exam requirements to become an elementary teacher in Florida, you can apply for your state teaching certificate. You’ll need to submit official transcripts, proof of passing FTCE exams, and documentation of your teacher preparation program completion to the Florida Department of Education.
- Complete Fingerprinting and a Background Check
Before becoming an elementary school teacher in Florida or working in one of the state’s many public schools, you must complete fingerprinting and a background check to confirm your eligibility.
- Start Teaching with a Temporary or Professional Certificate
You can start teaching with a temporary certificate (valid for three years), or earn a professional certificate and renew it every five years by completing additional professional development requirements. Learn more about transitioning from a Florida Temporary Teaching Certificate to Full Certification on our blog.
Can You Become an Elementary School Teacher in Florida Without a Teaching Degree?
Yes, you can become an elementary school teacher in Florida without a teaching degree. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field, you can complete an alternative teacher certification program. This option allows career changers and non-traditional educators to enter the classroom with a temporary certificate while they work toward full certification.
Moreland supports educators at every stage of their career and offers a Florida teacher certification program online that helps aspiring teachers gain the credentials they need, even without a traditional education degree. This program combines 100% online flexibility with the state-approved coursework required for certification.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Whether you’re just starting your education career or transitioning from another field, the steps to becoming an elementary school teacher in Florida are achievable with the right preparation. Learn more about Moreland University’s EPI for Florida teachers and sign up for an info session today!
