FAQs for Career Changers- MO Center for Math & Science Teacher Education
 
Q1. I haven't taken any education courses. How will I get certified?
A1. Check out this website's list of accredited colleges and universities in Missouri who offer alternative certification options. Often one or two post-baccalaureate years will be enough for certification and perhaps a Master's in Education. In the meantime, contact these program directors to find out what additional courses you can take that is outside to your current major. Examples of such courses include biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, or environmental science? In many cases, you can work as a teacher full-time under a Temporary Authorization Certificate while taking education classes in the evenings and summer.
 
Q2. Are there any programs that offer a Master's in Education along with certification?
A2. Again, look at the current listings on this website for colleges and universities who offer certification. Colleges are increasing options for certification as well as Masters' Degrees all the time. Once you've zeroed in on a program that will work for you, contact the school's education advising staff for more information.
 
Q3. Do colleges and universities offering certification help with tuition?
A3. Each program has its own way of helping graduate students, whether it is through loans, fellowships, or teaching assistantships. Check out the program's website to see if the one you are interested will offer financial assistance.
 
Q4. How long will it take me to get certified?
A4. Again, this depends on which institution you go through and how many courses you take at one time. You will be able to complete the certification requirements sooner if you are a full-time student instead of a part-time student. Many post-baccalaureate students choose to teach in their own classroom while they are being certified, and take night or weekend classes, as well as several in the summer.
 
Q5. When can I become a substitute teacher?
A5. The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education requires at least 60 hours of college credit and a background check before one can become a substitute. However, the school district in your area may require more. Check with their superintendent's office to find out more information. A listing of school district's websites is available at: http://www.dese.state.mo.us/links/School_Home_Pages/District
 
Q6. How much are teachers in Missouri paid?
A6. The current salary range in Missouri for first-year teachers with a Bachelor's degree is $22,435.00 to $29,301.00. Each district has its own career and salary schedule. More information on specific district's pay schedule is available at: www.msta.org/services/salary/index.asp.
 
Q7. What is the job market like for science/math teachers in Missouri?
A7. Check out the job listings found on this website for an idea most current math and science teachers in Missouri are nearing retirement, so lots of openings are available now and perhaps even more to come in the near future.
 
Q8. What is a highly qualified teacher?
A8. A highly qualified teacher never believes that he or she is a particularly 'good' teacher. S/he is constantly re-evaluating lesson plans, researching current educational psychology findings, and staying current with the latest developments in his or her field, whether that is earth science or algebra. In other words, a highly qualified teacher does not rest on his or her laurels, but seeks improvement in every aspect of the classroom
 
Q9. How easy is it for me to transfer my certification in Missouri to other states?
A9. This depends on the state. Since each state has different certification requirements, you should check the state's Department of Education website.
 
Q10. What are some other career opportunities I would have if I were to major in education?
A10. In addition to teaching, a major in Education could be the first step towards a job as a school psychologist, school counselor, or educational administrator. Many businesses want educators to conduct employee training. A comprehensive list of such careers can be found at Minot State University's website.
 
Q11. What are some other career opportunities I would have if I were to major in mathematics or science?
A11. The career possibilities with a major in mathematics or science are limitless: from teaching to research to accounting. Many undergraduates with a major in mathematics or one of the sciences choose to pursue graduate study or professional school to become university professors, dentists, actuaries, veterenatirans, or chemical engineers. A comprehensive list of such careers can be found at Minot State University's website.
 
Q12. How many hours per week does a teacher work?
A12. It is hard to quantify the time that teachers spend preparing for and teaching class. A common misconception is that teaching is a very easy profession. After all, teachers "get out of school at 3 pm and don't have to work during the summer." However, teachers spend many hours out of class grading papers and preparing lessons. Conscientious teachers spend summers taking professional development courses and preparing for the next school year.
 
Q13. What kind of personality or skills should I possess to be a good teacher?
A13. Good teachers possess many diverse qualities such as: patience, compassion, enthusiasm for their subject, persistence and dedication. If you do not naturally have one or more of these qualities, you can work to develop them.