Teaching Math in Missouri

Missouri epitomizes the common sense and good nature associated with the American heartland; where folks still smile and say hello when they pass you on the street. There are lots of other reasons why it pays to be a math teacher in Missouri. For example, Missouri offers several different routes for becoming a certified educator, including alternate paths and reciprocal certifications for those with out-of-state teaching certificates. There are also several scholarship and grant opportunities for eligible applicants to help reduce the cost of education and training.

In recent years, Missouri has seen a 2.4 percent increase in average teacher salaries. Despite this growth, the average teacher salary in Missouri ($46,406 ) is still below the national average. However, this is partially offset by a cost of living that is 10 percent lower than the national average. But, if a higher salary is what you’re after, St.Louis teachers often earn salaries that exceed the state average.

If you’re looking for a state that offers a lower student-to-teacher ratio, a wealth of opportunities for professional development and good old-fashioned Midwestern sensibility, then come see why the “Show Me State” is one of the best places to be a math teacher.

Math Teacher Certification in Missouri

Math Teaching Qualifications

All teachers in Missouri are required to meet the state’s minimum qualifications: complete all necessary undergraduate coursework, pass the mandated state standardized examinations and undergo a specified period of student teaching and/or training. Individuals interested in pursuing the traditional route will need to have a bachelor’s degree in education and may be expected to complete additional requirements.

Credentials & Exams

Initial Certification: This four-year license requires two years of mentoring, an annual evaluation, one year of beginning teacher assistance, the drafting of a professional development plan and 30 hours of professional development throughout the course of the four-year license period. Individuals who successfully complete the four-year teaching requirement are then eligible to apply for Missouri’s Career Continuous Certification.

Alternative Certification for Math Teachers

Missouri offers several alternative pathways to becoming a teacher. These options vary depending on the applicant’s level of experience and other qualifications. These options include:

• Alternative or Innovate Route: This route is for prospective teachers with a bachelor’s degree in a specific content area interested in attending a college education program. Under this option, the student will teach and take classes simultaneously under a two-year provisional certificate. Generally, the student is expected to complete 30 semester hours. The student will also be required to pass an exit examination. Upon completion of the two-year period, assuming all requirements are met, the prospective teacher is granted an initial certificate.
• Temporary Authorization Route: Similar to the alternative route, this option is for prospective teachers with a bachelor’s degree in an applicable content area; however, under this route, the individual takes a maximum of 24 college credits (this may vary depending on the area) in order to meet the minimum specified level of competency. The individual will then teach for two years under the mentorship and guidance of the school district. Upon passing the necessary exit examinations, the prospective teacher is issued a one-year, renewable certificate (requiring nine semester hours of college credit each year for renewal). If all requirements are met and exit exams passed, an initial teaching certificate is issued.
• Out-of-State Certified Route: Missouri also offers a reciprocity option for individuals with a teaching certificate from another state or jurisdiction. In order to qualify, the applicant must verify the validity of his or her out-of-state certificate. Either an initial or career certificate will be issued, depending on the applicant’s level of experience.
• American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) Route: This option is for those individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s degree and are interested in teaching middle or high school mathematics (or other select subjects). The prospective teacher must complete a course of study from ABCTE, pass the required examinations and receive ABCTE certification. Upon completion, the applicant will be issued an initial certificate.
• Doctoral Route: Individuals with a doctorate degree in a content area can earn an initial certificate by passing the Praxis test, Principles of Learning and Teaching 7-12. However, individuals pursuing this option will only be eligible for an initial certificate, and not a career certificate.