Do preschool teachers in MO need to have a degree early childhood?

In the state of Missouri, individuals who work as preschool teachers in licensed child care facilities are not required to have a degree in early childhood education. However, many preschools and child care centers may prefer or require candidates to have a degree or relevant coursework in the field.

According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which oversees child care licensing, the minimum requirements for preschool teachers include:

- A high school diploma or equivalent.

- Completion of 120 hours of training, which covers topics such as child development, health, nutrition, safety, and early childhood education.

- Passing a background check and meeting health requirements.

For teachers who work in public or private preschool programs that are not licensed by the state, the specific requirements may vary. Some programs may require a degree or certification, while others may accept individuals with a combination of experience and relevant training.

To ensure the best quality of care for young children, it is always recommended for preschool teachers to pursue higher levels of education and training in early childhood education.