1. Education:
* Bachelor's Degree: You must earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. This degree doesn't necessarily have to be in education, but it must include a strong foundation in your intended teaching area. Many aspiring teachers pursue a degree in education, which incorporates pedagogy (the art and science of teaching) and subject-matter coursework.
2. Teacher Preparation Program (TPP):
* Arizona Teacher Academy: Arizona utilizes a TPP model. This means you must complete a teacher preparation program approved by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE). These programs typically include:
* Coursework: Specific courses focusing on pedagogy, classroom management, curriculum development, assessment, and specialized methods for your grade level and subject.
* Student Teaching: A substantial amount of supervised student teaching in an actual classroom setting. This is crucial for practical experience.
* Field Experiences: Other opportunities to observe and participate in classrooms beyond the formal student teaching placement.
3. Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPAs):
* You must pass the required AEPAs for your specific teaching area. These assessments measure your knowledge and skills in reading, writing, and mathematics (for elementary teachers), as well as subject-matter knowledge relevant to your chosen field.
4. Background Checks and Fingerprinting:
* Arizona requires extensive background checks and fingerprinting as part of the certification process. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
5. Arizona Professional Educator Certificate:
* Upon successful completion of your TPP, passing the AEPAs, and clearing background checks, you'll apply for an Arizona Professional Educator Certificate through the ADE. The specific type of certificate will depend on your grade level and subject area.
6. Continuing Education:
* After receiving your initial certificate, you'll likely need to participate in ongoing professional development to maintain your certification. This often involves earning professional learning units (PLUs) through workshops, conferences, or advanced coursework.
In summary: The path to becoming a teacher in Arizona involves a bachelor's degree, completing an approved teacher preparation program, passing state assessments, undergoing background checks, and obtaining a Professional Educator Certificate from the Arizona Department of Education. The specific requirements can be found on the ADE website, which is the best resource for up-to-date and accurate information. It's highly recommended to check their website directly for the most current details.