Making a Difference: Pathways to Teacher Certification
In New Hampshire and nationwide, there is a critical shortage of teachers across subjects, as well as instructional specialists, educational specialists, and administrators. From English to math, science to special education, there is a pressing need for qualified professionals to fill these essential roles.
Making a Difference: Pathways to Teacher Certification
24% of Educators in New Hampshire are 55 or Older
As experienced educators retire, school districts are struggling to fill these essential roles. Those with teacher certifications are in high demand and have a unique opportunity to make a positive, lifelong impact on the next generation.
Teacher certification programs are designed to give educators the skills they need to improve their practice and help students learn more. A teacher certification can also help educators advance more quickly up the salary scale.
Sources
National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education. Average and median age of public school teachers and percentage distribution of teachers by age category, sex, and state: 2017–18 (visited September 2021). New Hampshire Department of Education. New Applicant or Add an Endorsement. (visited September 2021).
National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Why Certify? (visited September 2021).
Pathways to Teacher Certification in New Hampshire
Approved Educator Preparation Program
This is the most common pathway, with about 60% of certified teachers going through approved certification programs. Certification can be earned by either completing an approved bachelor’s program or a post-baccalaureate teacher certification program and passing the required content and subject area examinations. This pathway is designed to prepare future educators with a broad set of skills and knowledge to best serve their students.
Site-Based Licensing Plan
Those who have a bachelor’s degree may be eligible for a Site-Based Licensing Plan. This less common pathway requires candidates to receive a statement of eligibility (SOE) from a senior district administration official. Once an SOE has been obtained, candidates have three years to complete the certification requirements while working under an Intern Authorization. Candidates are assigned a mentor who they work with to develop a rigorous Individualized Professional Development Plan to meet the competencies for licensure.
Demonstrated Competencies
Those who meet the requirements can also earn a teacher’s certification through demonstrated competencies. One way a candidate can demonstrate competencies is by presenting a portfolio before an oral board of three educators to determine if they meet the requirements for licensure. To qualify, a candidate must hold a bachelor’s degree, meet applicable testing, experience, and reference letter requirements, and have at least four months of full-time continuous educator experience in the area of endorsement for which the certification is being requested.
Career Advancement Opportunities
For teachers who have already earned their initial certification, there are also additional career advancement opportunities.
Graduate Degrees and Certifications
Earning a graduate degree or certificate often provides experienced teachers the opportunity to serve as a lead teacher within a department, supporting curriculum development and working with less experienced teachers to help them improve their skills. Teachers with higher levels of education often have higher earnings and the potential to transition to an administrative role in the future.
“ I’m so inspired by our teacher certification candidates! They are truly embedded in our classrooms, using their talents and passions to connect with students, learn from and support practicing teachers, and spread excitement for learning. This work is so needed in today’s world, and we love watching them in action.”
- Carolyn Cormier, Senior Online Professional Faculty at UNH College of Professional Studies
National Board Certification
Certified teachers with more than three years of teaching experience can apply for certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. National Board Certification is available in 25 certificate areas representing 16 different disciplines and four developmental levels. Applicants must complete a computerbased assessment and submit three portfolios demonstrating instruction practices and competencies. National Board Certification helps teachers to improve their practices, enhance student learning, and advance their professional opportunities.
Advanced Endorsements
Teachers who have earned or are pursuing a graduate degree or certificate may also have opportunities for advanced endorsements in their specialization that can help them stand out from their colleagues. For example, a certified special education teacher can earn an advanced endorsement in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to better tailor their practices to their students’ needs.
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