1. Meet the Basic Requirements:
* Bachelor's Degree: You need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. The degree itself doesn't have to be in education, but you'll need to complete the necessary education coursework (see below).
* Background Check: You will undergo a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting. This is crucial for working with children.
* Health Examination: A physical exam may be required to ensure you're fit to work in a school environment.
2. Complete Teacher Education Program:
This is the most crucial step. You have several options:
* Traditional Teacher Education Program: This is a program offered at many Florida universities and colleges. It typically includes coursework in education pedagogy, subject-matter specialization, and student teaching. These programs often lead to a Master's degree in Education. This is the most common route.
* Alternative Certification Programs: These programs are designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than education. They typically involve a combination of coursework, mentoring, and practical experience in a classroom setting. Florida has several of these programs. This is a faster route for those who already have a degree in another field.
* Post-Baccalaureate Certificate: If your bachelor's degree is in a subject area you want to teach, you might pursue a post-baccalaureate certificate in education. This will usually involve completing additional education coursework.
3. Subject Area Specialization:
Florida requires teachers to be certified in a specific subject area (e.g., Elementary Education, Secondary Mathematics, Exceptional Student Education). Your chosen teacher education program will help you select and specialize in a field.
4. Complete Required Coursework:
The specific courses you need will depend on your chosen program and subject area. Common courses include:
* Educational Psychology: Understanding how students learn.
* Curriculum and Instruction: Designing and delivering effective lessons.
* Classroom Management: Maintaining order and a positive learning environment.
* Assessment and Evaluation: Measuring student learning.
* Student Teaching/Internship: Practical experience in a real classroom.
5. Pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE):
You'll need to pass the required FTCE exams for your subject area. These are standardized tests that assess your knowledge and skills in education. The specific exams vary depending on the grade level and subject you intend to teach.
6. Apply for Florida Teacher Certification:
Once you've completed your education program, passed your FTCE exams, and met all other requirements, you can apply for your Florida teaching certificate through the Florida Department of Education (FDOE). This application will involve providing all documentation of your completion of steps 1-5 above.
7. Find a Job:
After obtaining your certification, you can begin applying for teaching positions in Florida schools.
Resources:
* Florida Department of Education (FDOE): The official source for information on teacher certification in Florida. Their website is essential.
* Florida Colleges and Universities: Research universities in Florida offering teacher education programs.
* Alternative Certification Programs: Search online for alternative certification programs in Florida.
This process can take several months or even a couple of years, depending on your chosen path. It's crucial to carefully review the specific requirements from the FDOE website and your chosen teacher education program. Don't hesitate to contact the FDOE or the program directly if you have any questions.