What do I need to do in order to get certified to be a third grade teacher in the state of California?

Question

I am currently going to school in Texas, however my husband and I are planning a move back to California this fall. I have completed most of my general ed (College Algebra, English, etc.) however, I was recently told that there is no degree for education in california, how does this work?

Answer 1

If you already have your BA you can complete any required BA courses and complete your multiple subject teaching credential courses (it can take a year+). You will also be to  take the CBEST and CSET tests before you can complete your student teaching. I have heard from transferring teachers that it is sometimes easier to transfer out of California than into? But you should have an easier time if you are working on completing your credential requirements when you move to California. Good Luck!

Answer 2

It's very weird here.  I was a teacher in CA from 2001 to 2006, but I earned my degree in Michigan.  You have to get your bachelors degree before you can enter a teacher credential program.  The small state universities have a lot of influence on the Commission on Teacher Credentialing here, and the credential laws are just a way for them to stay in business by making sure that you are never able to leave school.  

If you have a BA and can pass a test call the CBEST, you can start teaching while working on your credential if you can find a state university that has an internship program.  I went to CSU, East Bay while teaching and worked things out through them.  I don't recommend that school, but they have such a program.  

However, I DO NOT recommend teaching in California.  I love living here, which is why I quit teaching instead of moving back to Michigan (where I taught for a semester after graduating in Dec. 2000).  However, the demands on teachers here are 1000 time greater than in Michigan, and because of Prop 13, the resources that you're given to work w/ are next to nothing.  Plus, while the pay is higher than in most states, when you factor in the cost of living it isn't worth it.  

Also, the credential requirements NEVER end.  Once you're done w/ your intern credential, you need to pass a zillion tests.  Then you need to go through an induction program.  Then you have more courses to complete to get your permanent credential.  Then there's your 150 hours of professional development every five years.  It's nuts.  Do something else for a living.

Answer 3

You'll need a CLAD and you have to have passed the RICA.