Education

• The first step to gaining full certification as a teacher in Ohio is obtaining a provisional license. A minimum of a baccalaureate degree in education from an approved college or university is typically necessary for this licensure. To qualify for state approval, programs must have accreditation either through the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education or the Teacher Education Accreditation Council. As of 2010, more than 40 private and public colleges in Ohio carried one of these credentials. As a part of their baccalaureate education, prospective Ohio teachers must also complete 12 weeks of full-time student teaching.
  
  

Examination

• In addition to completing postsecondary education, prospective teachers must pass an examination to obtain provisional licensure in the state. Administered by Education Testing Services or ETS, this examination is known as the Praxis II. This computerized test evaluates educators' knowledge in their chosen areas of specialization. Tests are available for elementary education and individuals pursuing certification in a specialty area such as music or art. Prospective secondary school teachers take a Praxis II subject text in their area of expertise, such as mathematics or English. Individuals who pass the Praxis II and a criminal background check can then apply for the Ohio provisional license.
  
  

Entry-Year Program

• After obtaining the Ohio provisional license, teachers must participate in an entry-year program to qualify for the state's professional teacher license. During this year, new teachers must undergo periodic performance-based reviews by the administration of the schools in which they teach. New teachers are also assigned an accomplished educator who serves as a mentor throughout the entry-year program. School districts must document the performance reviews of teachers in the program and submit them to the Ohio Department of Education at the conclusion of the year. Teachers who successfully complete the program are then eligible to apply for a professional teacher license, becoming fully certified teachers in Ohio.
  
  

Professional License Maintenance

• Professional teaching licenses in Ohio remain valid for five years from their date of issuance. To maintain their certification, Ohio teachers must complete certain educational requirements during that five-year time frame. Educators may opt to complete six credits of college-level coursework, such as classes toward a master's degree or 18 continuing education course credits. Continuing education courses are offered through a variety of providers and must have approval from the state of Ohio.