3 answers
Lilly
Student
1
Question
Asked
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How do I become a teacher in California?
I want to go to community college and then transfer to a university, but I’m confused about what courses I need to take to do this. I preferably want to be an elementary school teacher and I’m unsure about what to major in for community college.
3 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Lilly !
This is a good question ! To become a teacher you would go to college and also obtain a teaching credential.
Once you read the college catalog of majors, you will no longer be unaware of what courses to take. Each college has the majors and courses outlined on their website and you can also visit colleges to see if they have a printed form of their majors and courses that are required.
Starting at a community college is a great idea as you will save money as well as have the chance to see if Education is a field that you like before you commit to a four year university. You can choose to major in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Development or Education for your Associate Degree. The trend has changed in California and the path now includes obtaining your Bachelors Degree plus one year of post-graduate school. You would also need to go for a teaching credential, but there's no reason to worry, before you enroll at college, you will be fully aware of what you need to do and what courses you need to take. For now, you can look at potential community colleges and learn more about their programs and which college you can have an Education or Early Childhood Development Major. Each college is different and offers different majors.
To create less of an enigma about majors and courses, a good thing to do is to go for an orientation at a community college of your choice. At the orientation, you will get a feel for the campus as well as the opportunity to ask questions and visit the Education and Early Childhood Development Departments which have all the information that you will need.
While in High School, make sure to take as much Math, History, English and Science as you can. As an elementary school teacher, you will probably end up teaching these subjects on an elementary level. Also become involved in classes and activities that sharpen your presentation skills such as giving speeches, debate team or running for class offices. You will be presenting and speaking most of your work day as a teacher.
I am not sure where you live in California, but some school districts require that one extra year of college education in a field related to teaching. I would suggest going to your School District's website and see if they have that information listed for your particular city or town. Regardless, you will become familiar with this once you are enrolled in college and right now the important thing would be to become familiar with and choose a college.
For an Associate in Science Degree in Education there are three community colleges in your state that offer it. These colleges may not be near you but they are Lake Tahoe Community College, Compton College, and Santa Ana College. Three community colleges that offer an Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education/Development are Shasta College, Mira Costa College and Cerro Coso Community College. You should explore all nearby community colleges, however, because some information may not be public and you would get updated information by visiting or phoning the colleges.
So my advice is to focus on your high school classes and activities right now, visit colleges for orientations and explore college websites for information pertaining to where you live or where you want to go to college. Everything will fall into place for you nicely !
Best wishes in all you do !
This is a good question ! To become a teacher you would go to college and also obtain a teaching credential.
Once you read the college catalog of majors, you will no longer be unaware of what courses to take. Each college has the majors and courses outlined on their website and you can also visit colleges to see if they have a printed form of their majors and courses that are required.
Starting at a community college is a great idea as you will save money as well as have the chance to see if Education is a field that you like before you commit to a four year university. You can choose to major in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Development or Education for your Associate Degree. The trend has changed in California and the path now includes obtaining your Bachelors Degree plus one year of post-graduate school. You would also need to go for a teaching credential, but there's no reason to worry, before you enroll at college, you will be fully aware of what you need to do and what courses you need to take. For now, you can look at potential community colleges and learn more about their programs and which college you can have an Education or Early Childhood Development Major. Each college is different and offers different majors.
To create less of an enigma about majors and courses, a good thing to do is to go for an orientation at a community college of your choice. At the orientation, you will get a feel for the campus as well as the opportunity to ask questions and visit the Education and Early Childhood Development Departments which have all the information that you will need.
While in High School, make sure to take as much Math, History, English and Science as you can. As an elementary school teacher, you will probably end up teaching these subjects on an elementary level. Also become involved in classes and activities that sharpen your presentation skills such as giving speeches, debate team or running for class offices. You will be presenting and speaking most of your work day as a teacher.
I am not sure where you live in California, but some school districts require that one extra year of college education in a field related to teaching. I would suggest going to your School District's website and see if they have that information listed for your particular city or town. Regardless, you will become familiar with this once you are enrolled in college and right now the important thing would be to become familiar with and choose a college.
For an Associate in Science Degree in Education there are three community colleges in your state that offer it. These colleges may not be near you but they are Lake Tahoe Community College, Compton College, and Santa Ana College. Three community colleges that offer an Associate in Science in Early Childhood Education/Development are Shasta College, Mira Costa College and Cerro Coso Community College. You should explore all nearby community colleges, however, because some information may not be public and you would get updated information by visiting or phoning the colleges.
So my advice is to focus on your high school classes and activities right now, visit colleges for orientations and explore college websites for information pertaining to where you live or where you want to go to college. Everything will fall into place for you nicely !
Best wishes in all you do !
Marylou DiFilippo
Actor, Teacher
50
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Marylou’s Answer
Hello Lilly.
I am a teacher. I recommend speaking with your counselor at your high school. Tell them your plan and ask them what courses they think would be best to take now while you’re in high school. Your community college will also have an advisor, if not a major in teaching.
You sound like you have your head on straight. Keep up what you’re doing, because it sounds like you’re on the right path.
Tells me that you will succeed! Carry-on!
Best,
Marylou
I am a teacher. I recommend speaking with your counselor at your high school. Tell them your plan and ask them what courses they think would be best to take now while you’re in high school. Your community college will also have an advisor, if not a major in teaching.
You sound like you have your head on straight. Keep up what you’re doing, because it sounds like you’re on the right path.
Tells me that you will succeed! Carry-on!
Best,
Marylou
Thank you, Marylou!
Lilly
Lirio Delgado
201
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
Becoming an elementary school teacher in California involves several steps, including education, credentialing, and possibly some additional requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
### **1. Complete Your Education**
**Community College**
1. **Choose a Major**: While there isn’t a specific major required for community college, it’s beneficial to focus on coursework that will transfer smoothly to a four-year university and align with your goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. Consider majoring in:
- **Child Development**: This major is closely related to teaching and will provide you with foundational knowledge about child growth and learning.
- **Liberal Studies**: This is a common major for future elementary teachers and includes coursework in various subjects that align with elementary education.
- **Education**: Some community colleges offer an education major that prepares you for a teaching career.
2. **Complete General Education Requirements**: Ensure you complete the required general education courses as part of your community college curriculum. These courses will transfer to your chosen university and are necessary for earning your degree.
3. **Transfer Preparation**: Consult with a community college advisor to ensure you’re taking courses that meet the transfer requirements for your intended four-year university. You may also need to complete certain prerequisites before transferring.
**Four-Year University**
1. **Choose a Major**: When you transfer, you’ll typically declare a major in fields like:
- **Elementary Education**: Some universities offer this as a major, which is directly aligned with your goal.
- **Liberal Studies**: This major is designed for future teachers and includes coursework in subjects commonly taught in elementary schools.
- **Child Development** or **Early Childhood Education**: These are also relevant and can provide a strong foundation for teaching.
2. **Complete Your Bachelor’s Degree**: Earn your bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Make sure to complete any required coursework related to education, child development, and teaching methods.
### **2. Obtain Teaching Credentials**
1. **Pass the Required Exams**:
- **California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)**: This test assesses basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- **California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET)**: For elementary teaching, you’ll need to pass the CSET Multiple Subjects exam, which tests knowledge in various subjects taught at the elementary level.
2. **Complete a Teacher Preparation Program**: Enroll in a credential program, which can be completed as part of your undergraduate degree or as a separate program after earning your degree. This program includes student teaching experience.
3. **Apply for a Teaching Credential**:
- **Preliminary Credential**: After completing your teacher preparation program, you’ll apply for a Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.
- **Clear Credential**: After gaining experience as a teacher, you’ll need to complete additional requirements to obtain a Clear Credential, which typically involves additional coursework and professional development.
4. **Background Check**: You’ll need to undergo a fingerprint background check and provide proof of a clean criminal record.
### **3. Gain Experience**
1. **Student Teaching**: As part of your credential program, you’ll complete a student teaching assignment, where you’ll gain hands-on experience in a classroom under the supervision of a certified teacher.
2. **Continue Professional Development**: Stay updated on educational practices and continue professional development throughout your career.
### **Additional Tips**
- **Research Specific University Programs**: Different universities have varying requirements and programs, so research the specific requirements of the institutions you’re interested in.
- **Consult with Advisors**: Regularly meet with academic advisors at both your community college and university to ensure you’re on track with your coursework and transfer requirements.
- **Network with Educators**: Connect with current teachers and education professionals to gain insights and advice about the profession.
By following these steps and staying informed about the requirements, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a career as an elementary school teacher in California.
### **1. Complete Your Education**
**Community College**
1. **Choose a Major**: While there isn’t a specific major required for community college, it’s beneficial to focus on coursework that will transfer smoothly to a four-year university and align with your goal of becoming an elementary school teacher. Consider majoring in:
- **Child Development**: This major is closely related to teaching and will provide you with foundational knowledge about child growth and learning.
- **Liberal Studies**: This is a common major for future elementary teachers and includes coursework in various subjects that align with elementary education.
- **Education**: Some community colleges offer an education major that prepares you for a teaching career.
2. **Complete General Education Requirements**: Ensure you complete the required general education courses as part of your community college curriculum. These courses will transfer to your chosen university and are necessary for earning your degree.
3. **Transfer Preparation**: Consult with a community college advisor to ensure you’re taking courses that meet the transfer requirements for your intended four-year university. You may also need to complete certain prerequisites before transferring.
**Four-Year University**
1. **Choose a Major**: When you transfer, you’ll typically declare a major in fields like:
- **Elementary Education**: Some universities offer this as a major, which is directly aligned with your goal.
- **Liberal Studies**: This major is designed for future teachers and includes coursework in subjects commonly taught in elementary schools.
- **Child Development** or **Early Childhood Education**: These are also relevant and can provide a strong foundation for teaching.
2. **Complete Your Bachelor’s Degree**: Earn your bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Make sure to complete any required coursework related to education, child development, and teaching methods.
### **2. Obtain Teaching Credentials**
1. **Pass the Required Exams**:
- **California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)**: This test assesses basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- **California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET)**: For elementary teaching, you’ll need to pass the CSET Multiple Subjects exam, which tests knowledge in various subjects taught at the elementary level.
2. **Complete a Teacher Preparation Program**: Enroll in a credential program, which can be completed as part of your undergraduate degree or as a separate program after earning your degree. This program includes student teaching experience.
3. **Apply for a Teaching Credential**:
- **Preliminary Credential**: After completing your teacher preparation program, you’ll apply for a Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.
- **Clear Credential**: After gaining experience as a teacher, you’ll need to complete additional requirements to obtain a Clear Credential, which typically involves additional coursework and professional development.
4. **Background Check**: You’ll need to undergo a fingerprint background check and provide proof of a clean criminal record.
### **3. Gain Experience**
1. **Student Teaching**: As part of your credential program, you’ll complete a student teaching assignment, where you’ll gain hands-on experience in a classroom under the supervision of a certified teacher.
2. **Continue Professional Development**: Stay updated on educational practices and continue professional development throughout your career.
### **Additional Tips**
- **Research Specific University Programs**: Different universities have varying requirements and programs, so research the specific requirements of the institutions you’re interested in.
- **Consult with Advisors**: Regularly meet with academic advisors at both your community college and university to ensure you’re on track with your coursework and transfer requirements.
- **Network with Educators**: Connect with current teachers and education professionals to gain insights and advice about the profession.
By following these steps and staying informed about the requirements, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a career as an elementary school teacher in California.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Lilly
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