Best way to to get a teaching job in Florida

Question

I would really like to teach in Florida, but I am totally confused by the whole process. I currently have a statement of eligibility for journalism with no luck in the job market. I looked at going back to school here in Ohio, but it would take me 2 years to get either my masters or undergrad in education including license. I was thinking about maybe going to Florida to take the subject area tests for English, but with the travel cost etc it would be cheaper for me to just go back to school and take the 2 classes that make me eligibility for the of statement to teach middle grade English. And I have also thought about just going and getting masters in English, but this would also just give me just a statement of eligibility. I would really appreciate any advice that anyone could give me.

Answer 1

To teach you need to get your subject area, and then your professional certification.  As long as you aren't working at a title one school, you can get away with just the subject area for a year.

The florida DOE website is:  www.fldoe.org  to get more information on FL certification.

I really can't see that traveling to Florida for a few days could compare to two years of school.  I think you need to decide if you are ready for the move or not.  Just know that teaching in Fl is really tough right now due to all the budget cuts.  I would search the areas that you are interested in living and find their school board web sites and then see if your area is even needed.  

I know where I live the majority of the openings (and there are VERY few) are in Exceptional Student Education.

If you have the chance to get your Masters, I honestly would say do it now because going back to school when working is really hard... plus you'll make more when you do start teaching.

If you have any more questions, feel free to email me at [e-mail]

Answer 2

You must pass the state certification tests for the subject areas you are wanting to teach. Then, you may apply for a temporary non-renewable certificate, in which time you will complete any other necessary requirements. In addition to the subject area exams though, you may need to complete some other course work in education (such as practicals or student teaching) *depending on the county.

As our friend UCFgrl said, teaching in Florida is tough right now, statewide layoffs are rampant due to extreme budget cuts. We are all scared of losing our jobs, even those of us with tenure because we could be requested to 'move' positions or schools due to needs created by other cuts. You will need to have excellent credentials to be competitive in this crazy market. :)

Also as UCFgrl stated, the Florida Department of Education website is

www.fldoe.org,  I highly suggest, if you are seriously considering moving here, you check this website out first and read thoroughly the requirements for Florida Teaching certificate. But you will love living here. :) And teaching here, if that is the avenue you decide to go, I think.

Good luck!!!

Answer 3

apply to counties inland.  they have a higher turnover than the coast and it's much easier to get hired.  then you can try for a job on the coast, if you want.  if you qualify, the school board might hire you on the condition that you complete whatever requirements you don't already have, like the state test.