The Texas Education Agency lists 12 alternate route teacher programs for those who hold a bachelor's degree. These programs allow potential educators to complete the requirements necessary in order to become a certified Texas teacher. Programs are offered by both San Antonio colleges and by education service centers.
Minimum Education Requirements
In order to enroll in an alternate certification program in Texas, you must have a bachelor's degree from a college or university. You must have a GPA of at least 2.5 overall or a 2.5 GPA for the last 60 hours of college coursework. You also need at least 12 college credit hours in the subject you plan to teach. To become highly qualified, you will need at least 24 college credit hours in the subject area you plan to teach.
Training and Tests
Training may include classroom and online coursework. Before you can begin teaching, you will need to obtain passing scores on the TExES exam for the content area you plan to teach. The TExES exams are administered by the Educational Testing Service.
Costs
Programs cost vary according to the program selected. The Texas Teachers Program for the 2011-2012 academic year requires a down payment of $395. The remaining $3,800 balance will not be paid until after you begin working as a probationary teacher. The balance may be paid in interest-free monthly payments during your first year of teaching. The ACT San Antonio Training program charges an application fee of $50, training fee of $495 and an internship fee of $3,695. The Educators of Excellence program charges an application fee of $50, coursework fees of $1000 and internship fees of $3,200.
Internship
After completing the alternate route program training and coursework, you will then complete a one-year paid internship. You will work under a probationary Texas teacher certificate. You receive regular teacher pay and benefits. During your internship you will complete final program requirements and by the time you complete your internship you will be ready to apply for a professional teaching license.
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