How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in Georgia


| by Alex Skov

Share


If you’re considering a career as an elementary school teacher in Georgia, you’re preparing to step into a rewarding profession where you’ll inspire young people and shape their lives. The state of Georgia offers multiple routes to certification, making a career in teaching accessible for recent graduates and career changers alike. Explore the key steps to becoming an elementary school teacher in Georgia below and find useful resources to help you along your professional journey. 

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Georgia 

While becoming an elementary school teacher in Georgia follows a similar process to earning general teacher certification, there are some differences. Elementary school teachers in Georgia are typically certified for Pre-K through fifth grade responsibilities and teach a broad range of subjects. In contrast, certifications for middle and high school educators may focus on specific subject areas. 

For an in-depth overview of the steps and requirements, check out our robust guide on how to become a teacher in Georgia to find valuable insights into the certification process and alternative pathways for future educators. 

What Do You Need to Be an Elementary School Teacher in Georgia? 

To be eligible to be an elementary school teacher in Georgia, you’ll need to meet the following requirements: 

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While a degree in education is the traditional path, you can become certified with a degree in another field if you complete additional coursework through a program like Moreland’s TEACH-NOW
  • Complete a teacher preparation program. Elementary school teachers in Georgia must complete a state-approved educator preparation program, which can be part of your degree or fulfilled separately. 
  • Pass the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE), including the content-specific exam for early childhood education. 
  • Complete a background check including a fingerprint screening to ensure your eligibility to work in schools.

Steps to Becoming an Elementary School Teacher in Georgia 

Aspiring educators who want to work as elementary school teachers in Georgia must successfully take several steps before they can serve in the classroom. However, these steps are both practical and easy to complete if approaching one at a time: 

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree 

Your first step to becoming an elementary school teacher in Georgia is completing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education, you can still teach in Georgia by completing an alternative program

  1. Complete a Teacher Preparation Program 

To teach at any level in Georgia, you must complete a state-approved teacher preparation program that includes coursework and practical classroom experience. Again, if you’ve earned a non-education degree, alternative certification programs like TEACH-NOW will allow you to teach while working toward full certification. 

  1. Pass the GACE Exams 

GACE is a set of standardized tests that measure the knowledge and skills that Georgia requires for teaching. For elementary educators, you’ll need to pass the Early Childhood Education exam. This test measures your proficiency in teaching young learners in subjects such as literacy, mathematics, and social studies. 

  1. Apply for Initial Certification 

Once you’ve completed your degree, educator preparation program, and GACE exams, you can apply for your initial certification through the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). You’ll need to submit your transcripts, exam scores, and other documentation as required by the state. 

  1. Undergo a Background Check 

All prospective teachers in Georgia are required to complete a criminal background check including fingerprinting before they can be employed by a school district. This step helps make sure that all teachers meet the ethical and professional standards expected in the classroom. 

  1. Obtain a Provisional or Induction Certificate 

Once certified, new teachers can begin teaching with a provisional or induction certificate, depending on their level of experience and qualifications. Teachers with a provisional certificate must complete additional professional development or mentorship to earn a full, renewable certificate. 

Can You Become an Elementary School Teacher in Georgia Without a Teaching Degree? 

Yes, of course! It is possible to become an elementary school teacher in Georgia without a degree in education. If your bachelor’s degree is in another subject area, you can enroll in an alternative pathway like the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program to meet the certification requirements. These programs allow you to gain the skills and credentials needed to become a certified teacher. 

Moreland University supports aspiring teachers, current educators, and career changers at every stage of their certification journey. We are proud to offer flexible and convenient pathways to teacher certification in Georgia through 100% online programs that empower candidates to complete their coursework remotely while they continue working. Sign up for an info session to learn how Moreland can help make your teaching dreams come true! 

Additional Reading