Learn How to Get a Teaching License in Mississippi

To get a teaching license in Mississippi, complete a state-approved educator preparation program, pass the Praxis exams, and submit an application through the Mississippi Department of Education’s online portal. Requirements vary for traditional, alternate, and reciprocity pathways.

To get a teaching license in Mississippi, complete a state-approved educator preparation program, pass the Praxis exams, and submit an application through the Mississippi Department of Education’s online portal. Requirements vary for traditional, alternate, and reciprocity pathways.

Obtaining a teaching license in Mississippi is essential for aspiring teachers seeking to work in the state’s school districts. Whether you choose a traditional teacher preparation program or an alternate route program, this guide covers all the necessary steps, including specific coursework, certification exams, and the completed licensure application process. We’ll also explain the various Mississippi educator license classes and how to renew your license.

Requirements for a Mississippi Teaching License

Meeting the Mississippi teacher certification requirements involves fulfilling specific education, testing, and application standards. Here’s what you need to know.

General Requirements

Educational Requirements

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an approved program accredited by the Mississippi Department of Education.
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 throughout your coursework.
• Completion of a traditional teacher preparation program if following the traditional route.

Certification Exams

• Praxis CORE Academic Skills: Measures proficiency in reading, writing, and math.
  • A qualifying passing score or an ACT/SAT score may be used as an alternative.
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Choose the appropriate test for your desired teaching level:
  • Pre-K–K, K–6, 4–8, 7–12.
• Praxis Subject Assessment: Required for demonstrating expertise in elementary education or specific subjects.

Documentation Needed

• Official Transcripts from your bachelor’s degree and any additional master’s degree if applicable.
• Evidence of completed clock hours of teaching experience (if applicable).
• Submit a completed licensure application via your MECCA account on the Mississippi Department of Education website.

Traditional Route to Mississippi Teacher Certification

The traditional route is designed for candidates pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education. It involves classroom coursework, student teaching internships, certification exams, and submitting a licensure request.

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree & Teacher Preparation Program

• Enroll in an approved program at an accredited institution.
• Complete a teacher preparation program designed to provide the necessary skills and knowledge for effective teaching.
• Maintain a GPA of 2.75 or higher.

Step 2: Complete a Student Teaching Internship

• Obtain a one-year intern teaching license before starting your internship.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Enrollment in a teacher preparation program.
  • Minimum GPA of 2.75.
  • ACT score of 21 or higher, or a passing score on the Praxis CORE.
• Internship Requirements:
  • Full-time placement under the guidance of experienced school administrators within a school district.
  • Gain practical teaching experience and demonstrate teacher excellence.

Step 3: Pass Required Certification Exams

• Praxis CORE: Test your academic skills in reading, writing, and math.
• Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Choose the appropriate exam for your intended grade level.
• Praxis Subject Assessments: Demonstrate knowledge in your specialized teaching area (e.g., elementary education).

Step 4: Submit Licensure Request

• Submit your application through the MECCA account on the Mississippi Department of Education’s website.
• Upload all required documents, including official transcripts, testing requirements, and proof of internship completion.
• Ensure you meet the requirements for a five-year standard license.

Alternate Route Programs for Mississippi Teacher Certification

For those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field, Mississippi offers various alternate route programs to obtain a valid license.

Option 1: Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Programs

• Graduate-level programs designed for career changers.
• Example: Mississippi Teacher Corps.
• Benefits:
  • Full scholarships for tuition and books.
  • Guaranteed job placement with a Mississippi teacher license.
  • On-campus housing and a living stipend during training.

Option 2: Teach Mississippi Institute (TMI)

• Overview: Online coursework provided by the Teach Mississippi Institute for secondary education certification.
• Eligibility: Must have a bachelor’s degree.
• Structure: Flexible online learning for candidates aiming to teach grades 7–12.

Option 3: American Board Certification

• Overview: A self-paced, online certification program approved by the Mississippi Department of Education.
• Process:
  1. Complete the program.
  2. Secure a teaching position in a school district.
  3. Apply for a one-year non-renewable initial alternate teaching license.
  4. Complete additional requirements if applicable.
  5. Upgrade to a standard teaching license after successful completion.

Mississippi Educator License Levels & Renewal

Mississippi offers various teaching license levels based on education and experience.

License Levels

• Class A License: Requires a bachelor’s degree.
• Class AA License: Requires a master’s degree.
• Class AAA License: Requires a specialist degree.
• Class AAAA License: Requires a doctoral degree.
• Validity: Each license is valid for five years.

Renewal Requirements

• Complete Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or additional coursework.
• Submit a renewal application via your MECCA account before your license expires.

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