How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in Wyoming
| by Alex Skov
Teaching at the elementary level can include everything from working on art projects to reinforcing learning goals, engaging in imaginary play, and reading fun books as a class. Young learners tend to bring a lot of energy and humor to the classroom, and many elementary school teachers find the profession full of joy and laughter.
In Wyoming, teaching elementary schoolers isn’t just an exciting job, but one in high demand. The U.S. Dept. of Labor is projecting more than a 10% increase in jobs for elementary school teachers in Wyoming by 2032, compared to 2022. That’s an average of 210 open jobs every year.
If you’re considering an education career in the Equality State, keep reading to find out how you could earn your license and become an elementary school teacher in Wyoming.
Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Wyoming
Elementary school teachers need patience, a love of learning, and competency across multiple subject areas. While there are a few details specific to earning a license at the elementary level (such as the licensure exams you would take), in a lot of ways, the steps to earning an elementary teaching license are the same as the steps to earning a teaching license for any other level or subject.
You can learn more about the process in our How to Become a Teacher in Wyoming guide, which goes over the state’s different types of licenses, testing requirements, and the various routes to becoming a teacher.
What Do You Need to Be an Elementary School Teacher in Wyoming?
Aspiring educators in Wyoming need to have completed at least a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes 4 years. If you already have your bachelor’s degree, you can move on to the next step; you don’t have to start the process over.
From there, those wishing to teach elementary students in Wyoming can complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP), take the required Praxis exams, pass a background check, and submit a Wyoming teaching credential application through the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board (PTSB).
Some EPPs take a couple years to complete, but others are much faster. If you enroll in Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, you could be done in as little as 9 months. It is important to note that TEACH-NOW is an out-of-state EPP in Wyoming, so you would follow the steps for out-of-state licensure, which are largely similar to the in-state steps to licensure.
Steps to Becoming an Elementary School Teacher in Wyoming
In-State vs. Out-of-State Pathways
In Wyoming, you can become an elementary school teacher through a traditional undergraduate program in education or by completing a graduate-level EPP (if you already have your bachelor’s degree in another field). Wyoming has a list of state-approved EPPs as well as pathways for candidates who complete an online or out-of-state program.
You’ll want to think about your preferences and priorities to determine which path, in-state or out-of-state, is right for you. Would you prefer to attend classes in-person or online? What’s your timeline for earning your license? When do you want to start your program?
If you need help choosing your path, download The Teacher’s Guide to Finding Your Right-Fit Educator Preparation Program. You’ll learn 10 factors to help you evaluate EPPs and find the right one for you.
Steps to Licensure in Wyoming
Perhaps you pick an out-of-state EPP, like Moreland University’s online TEACH-NOW program. Let’s walk through an example of the steps you could take to earn your elementary school teaching license:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, even if it’s in another field, you can skip this step.
- Complete an EPP. The TEACH-NOW program can be completed in just 9 months.
- Submit official transcripts and 2 blue FBI fingerprint cards, including a background check, to the Wyoming PTSB.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the U.S. and Wyoming constitutions, either through prerequisites or exams.
- Pass the state-mandated Praxis exams. For example, you might take the Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects exam.
- Submit your licensure application through the Wyoming PTSB’s online system.
This is just one example of a potential path to licensure in Wyoming, through an out-of-state EPP. For more detailed information, visit the Wyoming PTSB website.
Why the Out-of-State Path Might Make Sense for You
Once you’ve decided to follow your dream of becoming an elementary school teacher in Wyoming, you have another big decision in front of you: finding the right path to licensure. It’s a personal choice, and there is no right or wrong answer. It’s about determining your priorities — your must-haves and your nice-to-haves — and finding an EPP that fits.
For some, Wyoming’s in-state options are a great match. For others, an out-of-state EPP makes more sense.
Since it’s online and accelerated, Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program tends to be a strong contender for career changers, those who are looking to earn a license quickly, and those who are already working full-time while balancing family and other responsibilities.
Can You Become an Elementary School Teacher in Wyoming Without a Teaching Degree?
Yes, you can become a teacher in Wyoming without a bachelor’s degree in education. If you already have a degree in another subject — or maybe you even have years of experience working in another field — Wyoming has a pathway to licensure for you.
Your background and experience could provide a fresh perspective for your students and make you an even better, more well-rounded teacher.
Want to learn more? Head to our Wyoming teacher licensure page.
Ready to take the next step? Earn your teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.
Once you complete the TEACH-NOW program, you have the option to add on a master’s degree in just 3 additional months. Apply for free (the application only takes about 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.
