1. Education Prerequisites:
- Hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. The degree does not necessarily need to be in education.
- Complete at least 24 semester hours of coursework in liberal arts and sciences, including English, math, science, social studies, and fine arts.
2. Teacher Preparation Program:
- Enroll in a Kansas-approved elementary teacher preparation program. These programs are offered through various colleges and universities in Kansas.
- The teacher preparation program should cover curriculum and instruction, child development, assessment, classroom management, special education, and diverse learning needs.
- Complete the required coursework, practicum experiences, and student teaching as part of the program.
3. Passing the Required Examinations:
- Take and pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Core) tests in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- Pass the Elementary Education Content Knowledge (ECK) exam, which assesses your knowledge of elementary-level subjects, teaching methodologies, and educational practices.
4. Application for Teaching License:
- Submit an application for an elementary teaching license to the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE).
- Provide transcripts, documentation of your teacher preparation program completion, and passing scores from the required exams.
- Pay the applicable license fee.
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will be issued an initial elementary teaching license. This license is typically valid for five years and may be renewed upon completing continuing education requirements.