Requirements for becoming a preschool or kindergarten teacher?

Question

Okay, I would like to know the requirements of becoming a kindergarten or a preschool teacher. I am a para-professional at a school for behavior and mentally disabled elementary students (similar to a teacher aid). I am considering looking for a new job at either a preschool teacher or a kindergarten teacher. I have an associates of art general education. and a bachelors in University Studies (thats like a general education degree also) I also have a temporary certificate for teaching and I have 5 classes that focus on Early Childhood Education. I have also work and volunteered with early childhood students for more than 9 years. What other requirements should I have to qualify as a early childhood teacher or a kindergarten teacher in different states in america?

Answer 1

It sounds like you are qualified to work as a preschool teacher, although it might depend on what credentials the program you apply to accepts.  To teach Kindergarten, one must usually have a four year degree in Elementary Education and certification at this level.  If you want to teach in the US, a good place to start might be to contact a university with an Education department and ask them to review your credentials and tell you what to do to become certified.  You may need to take a few more classes.  Or you could start with Preschool and attend a university to finish meeting the requirements for the El. Ed. certification.

Answer 2

It depend on where yuo live or the state you live in some States you are more then qualified to work in a preschool In other like here in Hawaii to become a teacer you need at least a two year degree.