How to Become a Teacher in Nevada
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Do you love working with children or teenagers and inspiring the next generation? Are you passionate about both learning and sharing your knowledge? If so, you may find a career as a teacher exciting and rewarding.
The path to becoming a certified teacher in Nevada may seem daunting, especially for those who are just starting their journey. But fear not — we’ve outlined the steps you need to take to become a teacher in Nevada, from meeting education requirements to passing certification tests and applying for licensure.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to turn your passion for teaching into a fulfilling career in the Silver State.
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How Do You Become a Teacher in Nevada?
Curious about how to become a teacher in Nevada? Well, there’s more than just one path to licensure. Keep reading to find out what you need to get started in your teaching career.
Meet Minimum Education Requirements
To become a teacher in Nevada, you’ll need to meet certain educational requirements. First, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. This degree can be in any subject, but you may want to consider a major related to the field or age group you wish to teach.
For example, if you’re interested in teaching elementary school, a degree in early childhood education could be beneficial. Alternatively, if you want to teach high school biology, a degree in biology would make sense.
Complete a Teacher Preparation Program
After earning your bachelor’s degree, the next step towards becoming a teacher in Nevada is to complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, which you can find on the Nevada Department of Education (NDE) website.
These programs are designed to provide the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach in a K-12 classroom. They typically include a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on teaching experience, including student teaching hours.
Pass Required Certification Tests
When applying for teaching certification in Nevada, you must pass the following Praxis exams:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This core exam demonstrates your general knowledge in reading, writing, and math.
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): You’ll also have to take one PLT exam for the specific age range you wish to teach, unless you want to work in elementary education. You can take the grades K-6, grades 5-9, or grades 7-12 exam.
- Praxis Subject Assessments: Certification areas may include early childhood education, elementary education, and middle school education. Other options include secondary education, world languages, and special education. You’ll have to take one subject assessment for every subject you wish to teach.
Applicants who hold a valid teaching license from another state may be eligible for license reciprocity. In these cases, the NDE may waive the testing requirements.
Apply for Certification
Once you’ve completed your education, teacher preparation program, and required tests, you’re ready to apply for your teaching certification!
This involves submitting an application to the Nevada Department of Education, along with all necessary documentation, such as your college transcripts, test scores, and proof of completing a teacher preparation program.
Additionally, you’ll need to submit a fingerprint card or Livescan submission for a criminal background check. New license applications cost $180, with additional endorsements costing $50 each.
Career Outlook for Teachers in Nevada
According to the U.S. Department of Education, Nevada reports shortages in grades preK-12 in art, mathematics, English as a second language, special education, elementary education, and more for the 2024-25 academic year.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in May 2022, elementary school teachers in Nevada earned an average yearly wage of $60,670, and high school salaries made an average salary of $66,620. Meanwhile, the average salary for all education occupations as of May 2022 was $71,190, more than the average for all occupations in Nevada, which was $55,490.
Keep in mind that teachers pursuing a master’s degree can qualify for a professional teaching license in Nevada. Depending on the school district, these teachers may also earn more for holding an advanced degree. They may also pursue administration and educational leadership roles outside the classroom.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teaching Certification in Nevada
While teaching in Nevada generally requires certification, there are certain circumstances under which you can begin teaching without full certification. The state offers alternative routes to licensure for those who have not completed a traditional teacher preparation program.
These programs allow you to begin teaching while simultaneously fulfilling the requirements for full certification. However, it’s important to note that working under an alternative license is not the same as being fully certified, and there are additional requirements you must meet to maintain your alternative license and eventually become fully certified.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed March 18, 2024.
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