Teaching Math in Arkansas

Arkansas is a state with a rich history of achievement: from Johnny Cash and General Douglas MacArthur to Maya Angelou and Bill Clinton. Nevertheless, the state’s education system has historically been characterized by challenges, rather than successes. Nearly 27 percent of children in Arkansas grow up in poverty, and only a small percentage of adults in Arkansas have advanced degrees.

As resilient as ever though, Arkansas continues to work to improve its education system. The recent influx of industry giants, like Wal-Mart and Tyson Foods, has provided much-needed jobs and capital to Arkansas. To meets the needs of a growing economy, Arkansas has implemented some of the most rigorous standards and assessments in the country. The state is committed to drawing high-quality teachers to Arkansas and has implemented the Teacher Excellence and Support System (TESS), a performance-based certification system for alternative pathway educators.

Individuals looking to have a real impact on a growing education system will find teaching in Arkansas rewarding. Salaries are close to the national average, while the cost of living is much lower. In addition, Arkansas offers increased pay to teachers in high-need subject areas, such as math.

Math Teacher Certification in Arkansas

Math Teaching Qualifications

Prospective teachers can obtain initial certification via the traditional route, which requires studying at one of 19 four-year colleges or universities approved by the Arkansas Department of Education.

Credentials & Exams

After one year of experience, teachers may convert the initial license into a Standard license (valid for five years). All teachers must pass the Praxis I/PPST (Pre-Professional Skills Test), the Praxis II test in the desired subject area and the Praxis II: Principles of Learning and Teaching.

Alternative Certification for Math Teachers

Arkansas also offers two alternative certification routes:

• The first is the Provisional Professional Teaching License, which is a three year license issued to experienced professionals (3 years of work experience in the content area). Candidates must pass the required content knowledge exams and complete 24 hours of training within the first year of licensure.
• The second option is the Arkansas Professional Pathway to Educator Licensure. Candidates with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree may work as an educator while finishing the requirements for a Standard Teaching License. This option requires assessments, portfolio development and mandatory monthly and summer trainings.