Want to become a teacher in the great state of Rhode Island? If so, you have come to the right place. Below you will find a short article that lists the steps to becoming a teacher in Rhode Island.

Step 1: Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program

To teach in the U.S., educators must hold at least an undergraduate degree. Some U.S. states that have requirements for courses subjects or undergraduate semester-hour requirements to receive certification in specialty areas. For initial certification, Rhode Island only requires that candidates complete an approved Educator Preparation program. A list of teacher education programs approved by the Rhode Island Department of Education can be found on the agency’s website. 

Step 2: Complete the Required Exams

The Rhode Island Department of Education requires candidates for Initial Licensure to finish certification area-specific exams given by Pearson and ETS, individually, from its Praxis Series. A full list of the exams necessary for each certification area can be found on the Department of Education website.

The Rhode Island Department of Education gives educator certifications. New educators receive their Initial Educator Certificate through issuance, which requires that candidates complete a Rhode Island-Approved Educator Preparation Program. The Initial Educator License is for three years. Upon its expiration, educators may apply for their Professional Educator License, which requires the demonstration of instructional competencies, good performance on assessments, and the completion of field experiences and student teaching. The Professional Educator License is for five years and may be renewed for the same period.

Step 3: Submit a Rhode Island Teaching Credential Application

Have you finished your teacher education program, completed an undergraduate degree, fulfilled experience requirements, and passed all necessary exams? If so, you can apply for teacher certification in Rhode Island. Visit the website of the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) for more information about the certification process and procedures. Send all of the required documents to the Rhode Island Department of Education, Office of Educator Quality and Certification, 255 Westminster Street, 4th Floor, Providence, RI 02903-3400.