1. Education:
* Bachelor's Degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
* Specific Subject Matter Preparation: While a bachelor's degree is a starting point, you'll need coursework relevant to the subject you plan to teach. The specific requirements vary by subject area and are outlined by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). For some subjects, like math and science, a major or minor in the field is often required.
* Teacher Education Program (TEP): Most aspiring teachers complete a teacher education program, often a Master's of Arts in Teaching (MAT) or a post-baccalaureate certificate program. These programs provide pedagogical training and student teaching experiences. Some pathways may offer alternative routes, but a TEP is typically required.
2. Licensure/Certification:
* Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) Application: You'll need to apply for a Virginia teaching license through the VDOE. This involves background checks, fingerprinting, and providing transcripts and other documentation.
* Passing Scores on Required Tests: You'll need to pass the required Praxis exams (or other approved assessments) for your specific subject area. The specific Praxis exams vary depending on the grade level and subject matter.
* Passing Grades in Required Courses: The VDOE specifies the required courses within your TEP.
* Student Teaching: A successful student teaching experience is a mandatory component of most teacher preparation programs.
* Type of License: Virginia offers different types of licenses based on grade level (e.g., K-5, 6-12) and subject area (e.g., Math, Science, English).
3. Background Checks and Fingerprinting:
* Criminal Background Check: A thorough background check is mandatory.
* Fingerprinting: You'll need to be fingerprinted as part of the licensing process.
4. Additional Requirements:
* Health Examination: Some school divisions may require a health examination.
* Continuing Education: Most teaching licenses require ongoing professional development and continuing education credits to maintain their validity.
Alternative Routes to Licensure:
Virginia offers some alternative routes to licensure for individuals with experience in a particular field who want to become teachers. These programs typically require additional coursework and mentoring.
In summary: The process is thorough. It's essential to check the VDOE website for the most up-to-date and specific requirements based on your intended grade level and subject area. The requirements can be quite detailed, so early planning and attention to detail are critical.