For School Staff
Use your school experience to start a rewarding career at the head of the class.
Paraprofessionals, substitute teachers and other school support staff have unique options to earn a teaching certificate.
New York teaching programs want committed candidates with unique experiences that prepare them for success. Your district may have scholarships and other programs that can help you into the profession you already love.
$91,000
Statewide average teacher salary
101
Teaching programs
731
School districts
How to become a teacher in NY
Not sure how to get certified? Here’s the very quick version:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree.
Many programs let you earn your degree and lead to a teaching certificate at the same time! - Complete a teaching program.
Decide the grades and subjects you want to teach, and explore teaching programs that offer the teaching certificate title you want. Then, start applying! Explore teaching programs. - Pass certification tests.
You’ll need to take a few tests to show you know your stuff well enough to teach. If testing stresses you out, don’t worry! All you need to do is pass, and there are tons of resources to help you out.
There are a few more steps involved, but we’ve got you covered! Get our Certification Guide for all the details.
How can school staff get certified?
Talk to a TeachNY coach
Becoming a teacher is a big decision! You don’t have to do it alone. Sign up for a TeachNY group info session or 1-on-1 coaching now! Learn about the process of becoming a teacher and ask any questions you may have.
It’s all free!
What’s next
Financial Aid & Scholarships | TeachNY
Explore scholarships and other financial aid for future teachers. Find local and national opportunities!
Learn moreFee Reimbursements | TeachNY
Applying to teacher prep programs can get expensive. We’ll give you $100 to help you out.
Read MoreReferences
- Educator Pay Data. National Education Association. https://www.nea.org/resource-library/educator-pay-and-student-spending-how-does-your-state-rank
- New York State Education Department Data Site. https://data.nysed.gov/index.php
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