Phoenix for teachers? (Glendale, Chandler, Surprise: credit, jobs, house)

[ibarrio]

I was reading on the AZ website that the Tests can be waived. I think the professional knowledge test can be waived with three years teaching experience and the other can be waived with a Masters degree. The Arizona constitution/government and sheltered English Immersion cannot be waived.

I think the only thing I have to take is the AZ constitution and I was told that it is a 4 hour Saturday course at the University of Phoenix.

I sent my stuff to the cred office and when I get my results I will let you guys know (about 3 weeks ago). I had to get my AZ clearance first..that took about 3-4 weeks. Will be longer the more you wait to send it in. Soon will be the time when the credentialing and clearance offices get slammed.

[TeacherGuyMi]

I also heard that the constitution course isn't bad either. I heard that it's a good way to meet others who just moved here from other states. I just started subbing in the district where I'll be teaching in, in the fall. From what I can tell after 2 days, the standards are a lot lower here and the atmosphere is a lot more laid back than it is back in Michigan. Things are a lot more cozy for teachers down here (which I like), even if it means that the schools aren't quite up to par with the rest of the country.

[sugarlips]

Anyone know if AZ still offers the alternative paths to certification for those with a 4 year degree who want to teach (not in education)? They used to but I can't find the information on the Dept of Ed web site anymore.

I've often thought I would make a good teacher but my bachelors degree is not in education. I've been thinking about substituting to get my feet wet and get a better idea. I guess I could start the process of getting a substitute certificate.

Any info on the alt. path to cert. would be great. Thanks!

[sablebaby]

You'd have to get a post bac in education. That's usually another 36-42 credits, plus student teaching (takes about 2 years). My best friend did that. It's pretty strict out here, that you have to have the education.

[sablebaby]

You can take the US and Constitution classes at several sites, such as the community colleges. EVERYBODY has to take them, it's not just for people moving here from somewhere else.

[sugarlips]

Originally Posted by sablebaby

You'd have to get a post bac in education. That's usually another 36-42 credits, plus student teaching (takes about 2 years). My best friend did that. It's pretty strict out here, that you have to have the education.

I knew that you had additional schooling but there was a program that would prepare you for certification over the summer. It was a very intense program geared toward professionals who wanted to make a career switch to teaching. I guess it is no longer available since I can't find any information about it anymore.

I guess you **really** have to want/enjoy teaching in order jump through all the hoops and only make $30k+ a year. All of the places that we have lived have an average teacher salary of $50k+ year. That's how it should be (in my opinion). Heck, you can make $30k a year working in a call center in Phoenix. It's a shame how teachers are devalued.

[sablebaby]

It's funny I am in a career that pays the same as teachers and you HAVE to have a master's degree and be licensed. So it's not just teachers that are shafted! When I was just starting out I got so sick of teachers complaining. I wouldn't complain if all I needed was a BA and be making $32k.

I never heard of a program that would be just one summer. Maybe it prepares you for the certification, but you still need the education.

[sugarlips]

That's probably what it was....you get certified and take classes towards your masters while working. I think there was a stipulation that you must be sponsored by a school. I guess I could always get certified as a sub and then test the waters to see if actually like teaching.

I'm sure that there are many undervalued jobs like teaching. *I* would not be happy if I only made $32k with my degree/experience especially when I know that lower skilled jobs pay the same/more.

[sablebaby]

Starting with subbing would a great first choice. Especially if you got into a long term sub position, then you will really get a feel for it! Good luck!

[sfw1979]

James...

Yuma, Arizona is desperate for teachers because of the growth...Most of the newer teachers are from MN, OH, MI etc...but since your young and single Yuma may seem a little dull. There is not a whole lot of night life. My friend from Yuma who teaches came from MN and LOVES Yuma... Good Luck!