Teaching Math in Iowa

Now is a great time to consider teaching in Iowa. The Midwest state boasts a low cost of living and is at an important stage in implementing sweeping education reform. The state is prepared to innovate in order to improve student achievement and is at the forefront of implementing ideas such as blended learning and merit-based pay. Iowa has made a commitment to ensuring its educational system works not only for students, but for teachers as well.

While salaries in Iowa are slightly lower than the national average, salaries have been increasing at a greater pace than the national average. The state has recently overhauled its Teacher Leadership and Compensation System in order to reward effective teachers with leadership opportunities and higher pay. The new system is designed to improve student learning and instruction by empowering effective teachers to take on extra responsibilities. For teachers looking to lead and innovate, Iowa offers no shortage of opportunities to rise to the challenge.

Math Teacher Certification in Iowa

Math Teaching Qualifications

Iowa requires certified teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree, complete an accredited certification program and pass the appropriate Praxis II: Subject Tests. Iowa does not have a Basic Skills test requirement; the state only requires subject area tests to demonstrate subject area proficiency.

Credentials & Exams

Iowa offers three types of teacher certification:

• The first is the Initial certification, valid for the first two years of teaching.
• The second type is the Standard certification, which is valid for five years. This license can be obtained after completing an approved mentoring program and teaching for two years in an Iowa public school or three years in an Iowa private or out-of-state school.
• The third type is the Master certification, also valid for five years. Teachers can obtain this license after obtaining a Standard License, completing five years of teaching and graduating from a Master’s degree program.

Alternative Certification for Math Teachers

There are two alternative certification routes available in Iowa:

• The first is the Teacher Intern License. This license is available for individuals holding a bachelor’s degree with a G.P.A. of 2.75 or higher. Participants must have at least three years of work experience and the undergraduate course work to teach high school. The one-year internship includes additional coursework and leads to a teaching certificate.
• The second option is the Missouri Region Troops to Teachers program, available to veterans wishing to enter the teaching profession.