What do I need to become a preschool teacher in Tennesse?

Question

I love working with children and i was wondering what is it that you need to become a preschool teacher in TN? How many credits?

Answer 1

I'm not sure what Tennessee law dictates, but most states require at least an Associate degree in Early Childhood Education.  That is the equivalent of about 60 credits.

Answer 2

Yay!! I just graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in Early Childhood Education. It is one of the best teacher schools around. In order to become a preschool teacher (this means certified, not just a daycare of church preschool) you will have to take courses. MTSU has a 120 hour ECE program. It is wonderful and I loved my time there. Also, you will be certified to teacher PreSchool -3rd grade and you have to pass the National Teacher Exams. For more information you can contact an advisor at MTSU in the ECE department. Mine was Linda Richey and she was wonderful. Good luck in your quest for the greatest profession out there!!

Answer 3

It depends on where you want to teach.  I am the director of a church-based preschool and the State of TN dictates that you must have at least a high-school diploma to teach a class by yourself.  

Many church programs do not require you to hold a college degree (although some use that as hiring criteria).  Training is required each year (a certain number of training hours is required) and varies from 12 hours to 36 hours, depending on the center.

Of course, experience caring for children is always a plus, but I have hired "moms" of children that are currently enrolled in our preschool program and they have been the best teachers we've ever had.  

Good luck!