High School Student
It’s never too soon to plan for your career in education. There are so many opportunities to work in a school setting and get a sense of whether the education path is for you. High school students have a perspective of K-12 schooling that is reflective of their own recent experiences and can contribute positively in the K-12 educational setting whether it is as a classified or certificated employee. We invite you to consider the many options!
Trying to figure out if teaching is the right career for you? Do you want to learn more about what it is like? Answer these questions and more by checking out Teach California resources.
Take a look at the Information below to learn more about pathways and options. Then check out the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) approved teacher preparation programs website to find a program that fits you.
Mapping Out the Path to a Career in Education
Each type of educator has its own set of requirements. The steps outlined below give the basic overview of the steps you need to complete.
- Integrated Credential + Degree
- Multiple Subject Credential
- PK-3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential
- Single Subject Credential
- Education Specialist (Special Education) Credential
- Pupil Personnel Services Credential
- Career Technical Education (CTE) Credential
- Adult Education Credential
- Substitute Teacher
- Classroom Instructional Aide
- Expanded Learning Staff
Integrated Credential + Degree
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Integrated degree/teacher preparation program - coursework and field experience (student teaching)
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Subject Matter Competency Requirement
AND
U.S. Constitution coursework or qualifying examination. This is typically met during undergraduate general education coursework.
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Once you receive your credential, apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
TIPS
- The Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) has changed! Many teacher candidates used to take the CBEST. Now a bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited institution eliminates this requirement for most credentials.
- If your degree is from outside the US, you must have your transcripts evaluated by an approved agency. See sdcoe.net/credentials If you hold a credential from out-of-state/country.
- You may or may not need to take California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). CTC - Subject Matter Competency Requirement
- Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) is required before student teaching.
- Information about California educator credentialing assessments at ctcexams.nesinc.com
- SDCOE has free test prep!
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Multiple Subject Credential
Self-contained classroom - typically elementary but can be preschool-12, or in classes primarily for adults
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Bachelor’s Degree
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Teacher Preparation Options
(Choose one)
- A. Traditional - Includes coursework and student teaching.
- B. Internship program - Complete preservice coursework, obtain intern position with a school/district, and then complete credential courses while working as a paid teacher
- C. Residency - Includes coursework and a full school year with a mentor teacher. May also include a grant-funded stipend
- D. Integrated - Includes a credential and degree in one program
AND
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U.S. Constitution coursework or qualifying examination.
This is typically met during undergraduate general education coursework.
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Once you receive your credential, apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
TIPS
- The Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) has changed! Many teacher candidates used to take the CBEST. Now a bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited institution eliminates this requirement for most credentials.
- If your degree is from outside the US, you must have your transcripts evaluated by an approved agency. See sdcoe.net/credentials If you hold a credential from out-of-state/country.
- You may or may not need to take California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). CTC - Subject Matter Competency Requirement
- Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) is required before student teaching.
- Information about California educator credentialing assessments at ctcexams.nesinc.com
- SDCOE has free test prep!
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
PK-3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential
The PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential authorizes the holder to teach all subjects in a self-contained general education classroom setting in grades preschool through grade three, including Transitional Kindergarten
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Bachelor’s Degree
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Subject Matter Competency (Choose one)
- A. Possession of a bachelor’s or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education with a degree major in one of the following fields: Child Development; Child and Adolescent Development; Human Development; Early Childhood Education; Child and Family Studies; Early Childhood Studies; Family Science; Human Development and Family Science; or Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies
- B. Completion of 24 semester units or 36 quarter units of non-remedial, degree-applicable coursework at a regionally accredited institution of higher education in early childhood education and/or child development
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Teacher Preparation Options
(Choose one)
- A. Traditional - Includes coursework and student teaching.
- B. Internship program - Complete preservice coursework, obtain intern position with a school/district, and then complete credential courses while working as a paid teacher
- C. Residency - Includes coursework and a full school year with a mentor teacher. May also include a grant-funded stipend
- D. Integrated - Includes a credential and degree in one program
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Once you receive your credential, apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
TIPS
- If your degree is from outside the US, you must have your transcripts evaluated by an approved agency. See sdcoe.net/credentials If you hold a credential from out-of-state/country.
- Keep in mind that not all teacher preparation options may be available in your region of CA at this time.
- SDCOE PK-3 Intern Credential Program
- Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) is required before student teaching.
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Single Subject Credential
The Single Subject Teaching Credential is used for departmentalized classes, such as those in most middle schools and high schools or in classes organized primarily for adults. It is also found in lower grades, particularly for subjects such as physical education or visual & performing arts (VAPA) subjects.
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Bachelor’s Degree
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Teacher Preparation Options
(Choose one)
- A. Traditional - Includes coursework and student teaching.
- B. Internship program - Complete preservice coursework, obtain intern position with a school/district, and then complete credential courses while working as a paid teacher
- C. Residency - Includes coursework and a full school year with a mentor teacher. May also include a grant-funded stipend
- D. Integrated - Includes a credential and degree in one program
AND
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U.S. Constitution coursework or qualifying examination.
This is typically met during undergraduate general education coursework.
▼
Once you receive your credential, apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
TIPS
- The Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) has changed! Many teacher candidates used to take the CBEST. Now a bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited institution eliminates this requirement for most credentials.
- If your degree is from outside the US, you must have your transcripts evaluated by an approved agency. See sdcoe.net/credentials If you hold a credential from out-of-state/country.
- You may or may not need to take California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). CTC - Subject Matter Competency Requirement
- Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) is required before student teaching.
- Information about California educator credentialing assessments at ctcexams.nesinc.com
- SDCOE has intern credential programs and free test prep!
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Education Specialist (Special Education) Credential
Holder conducts educational assessments related to student’s access to the academic core curriculum and progress towards meeting instructional academic goals, provide instruction, and Special Education support. Specialties include Mild/Moderate, Moderate/Severe, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Visual Impairment, Physical and Health Impairments, Early Childhood Special Education, and Language and Academic Development.
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Bachelor’s Degree
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Teacher Preparation Options
(Choose one)
- A. Traditional - Includes coursework and student teaching.
- B. Internship program - Complete preservice coursework, obtain intern position with a school/district, and then complete credential courses while working as a paid teacher
- C. Residency - Includes coursework and a full school year with a mentor teacher. May also include a grant-funded stipend
- D. Integrated - Includes a credential and degree in one program
AND
▼
U.S. Constitution coursework or qualifying examination.
This is typically met during undergraduate general education coursework.
▼
Once you receive your credential, apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
TIPS
- The Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) has changed! Many teacher candidates used to take the CBEST. Now a bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited institution eliminates this requirement for most credentials.
- If your degree is from outside the US, you must have your transcripts evaluated by an approved agency. See sdcoe.net/credentials If you hold a credential from out-of-state/country.
- You may or may not need to take California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). CTC - Subject Matter Competency Requirement
- Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) is required before student teaching.
- Information about California educator credentialing assessments at ctcexams.nesinc.com
- SDCOE has intern credential programs and free test prep!
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Pupil Personnel Services Credential
Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) credential professionals include school counselors, school psychologists, school social workers and child welfare and attendance providers. Each PPS credential specialization has its own credential program and often also includes and/or requires a masters degree in the subject. Consult the university credential program you are interested in attending for important details before beginning a master's degree prior to entering a PPS credential program.
A PPS credential authorizes the holder to perform services in the specialization(s) named, as described below, in grades 12 and below, including preschool, and in programs organized primarily for adults.
School Psychologist
- Provide services that enhance academic performance; design strategies and programs to address problems of adjustment;
- Consult with other educators and parents on issues of social development, behavioral and academic difficulties;
- Conduct psycho-educational assessments for purposes of identifying special needs;
- Provide psychological counseling for individuals, groups and families; and
- Coordinate intervention strategies for management of individual and school-wide crises
School Counseling
- Develop, plan, implement and evaluate a school counseling and guidance program that includes academic, career, personal and social development;
- Advocate for the higher academic achievement and social development of all students;
- Provide school-wide prevention and intervention strategies and counseling services;
- Provide consultation, training and staff development to teachers and parents regarding students' needs; and
- Supervise a district-approved advisory program as described in Education Code Section 49600.
School Social Work
- Assess home, school, personal and community factors that may affect a student's learning;
- Identify and provide intervention strategies for children and their families including counseling, case management, and crisis intervention;
- Consult with teachers, administrators and other school staff regarding social and emotional needs of students;
- Coordinate family, school and community resources on behalf of students;
- Facilitate prevention, early identification, and intervention through direct and indirect learning support services to students, families, and school personnel; and
- Maintain and provide linkages with school and community based resources to ensure that students and families access needed educational, health, and mental health services.
Child Welfare and Attendance
- Access appropriate services from both public and private providers;
- Provide staff development to school personnel regarding state and federal laws pertaining to due process and child welfare and attendance laws;
- Address school policies and procedures that inhibit academic success;
- Implement strategies to improve student attendance;
- Participate in school-wide reform efforts; and
- Promote understanding and appreciation of those factors that affect the attendance of culturally-diverse student populations.
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Bachelor’s Degree
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Post-baccalaureate degree in an approved preparation program for the desired specialization that includes coursework and a practicum with school-age children. Programs frequently include a master's degree.
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(Optional)
Added Authorization in Child Welfare and Attendance (CWA): Minimum of 150 clock hours of supervised school-based field experience engaging in supervised practice in the following areas: student attendance, student enrollment and discipline, educational records, parent engagement, and legal and ethical compliance related to pupil services.
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Once you receive your credential, apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
TIPS
- If your degree is from outside the US, you must have your transcripts evaluated by an approved agency. See sdcoe.net/credentials If you hold a credential from out-of-state/country.
- Certificate of Clearance (fingerprinting) is required before you begin your practicum experience.
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Career Technical Education (CTE) Credential
Sometimes known as vocational education, these courses prepare students, middle school to adult, for specific trades in 15 industry sectors. Teachers pursuing a CTE credential come directly from those industry areas. They teach students the academic and technical content that provides them with the knowledge and skills to enter an occupation, or continue on to college.
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High School Diploma
(or equivalent)
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3 years/3000 hours of Industry experience and education combined
(up to 1000 can be education)
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Offer of employment in a CTE position for a school/district + an English Language Waiver
AND
Certificate of Clearance
(Fingerprinting/background check)
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While you are teaching you will also complete the following
- Credential coursework
- CPR for infant, child and adult certification
- U.S. Constitution coursework equivalency or exam
- Health education
- English Language Waiver
TIPS
- CTE Industry Sectors include:
- Agriculture and Natural Resources
- Arts: Media, and Entertainment
- Building Trades and Construction
- Education, Child Development, Family Services
- Energy and Utilities
- Engineering and Design
- Fashion and Interior Design
- Finance and Business
- Health Science and Medical Technology
- Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation
- Information Technology
- Manufacturing and Product Development
- Marketing, Sales and Service
- Public Services
- Transportation
- The school/district will assist you with the English Language Waiver.
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Adult Education Credential
Adult Education programs offer their communities both state-supported general education courses and community education fee-based classes. The credential authorizes the holder to teach the subjects named on the credential in courses organized primarily for adults.
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Bachelor’s Degree for academic subject credentials
High School Diploma or equivalent for non-academic subjects
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3 years of experience and/or
education in the credential subject
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Offer of employment in a school/district
AND
Certificate of Clearance (Fingerprinting)
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While you are teaching you will also complete the following
- Credential coursework
- CPR for infant, child and adult certification
- U.S. Constitution coursework equivalency or exam
- Health education
TIPS
- Community education courses are varied and developed to meet the needs of particular communities. State-supported adult education areas include:
- Elementary Basic Skills
- English as a Second Language
- High School Subjects
- Citizenship
- Parent Education
- Health & SafetY Education
- Adults with Disabilities
- Career Technical Education
- Older Adult Programs
- Home Economics Education
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Substitute Teacher
The Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit authorizes the holder to serve as a day-to-day substitute teacher in any classroom in California, including preschool, kindergarten, and grades 1-12, or in classes organized primarily for adults. You may serve as a substitute every day. "30-days" refers to the maximum number of days you may work in the same general education classroom in a year.
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Bachelor’s degree
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Fingerprinting/background check
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30-Day Permit Application
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Apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
TIPS
- Substitute teaching is a great way to better determine if teaching is the career for you as well as allowing you to get to know a school/district.
- 30-day substitute teacher permit allows the holder to serve as a substitute for no more than 30 days for any one teacher during the school year or no more than 20 days in a school year for a special education teacher.
- The Basic Skills Requirement (BSR) has changed! Many teacher candidates used to take the CBEST. Now a bachelor’s degree from a regionally-accredited institution eliminates this requirement for most credentials.
- If your degree is from outside the US, you must have your transcripts evaluated by an approved agency. See sdcoe.net/credentials If you hold a credential from out-of-state/country.
- SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our Linda Vista campus and in San Marcos.
Classroom Instructional Aide
Provides student assistance under the supervision and direction of a faculty member - K-12
START
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High School Diploma or equivalent
(College units or Associates Degree may be
required by some schools/districts)
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Certificate of Clearance or Fingerprinting may be required
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Apply through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
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Competency assessment may be required by some schools/districts
TIPS
- Many people become an Instructional Aide as a way to start working in schools before they complete their bachelor’s degree and teaching credential program.
- Positions are often part time, making it easier to also attend classes and/or maintain other personal and family obligations.
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Expanded Learning Staff
Includes before-school, after-school, and summer school programs
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18 years or older AND High School Diploma or equivalent
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District qualifications for Instructional Aide
- College units or Associate Degree and competency assessment may be required by some schools/districts
- Required for K-8 Expanded Learning Programs
- May be required for 9-12 Expanded Learning Programs
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Depending on the school/district, applications may be processed
through Edjoin.org or directly through the school/district
Community-based organizations/program providers (i.e. YMCA, Boys
& Girls Club, etc), may handle the application process on behalf of the school/district
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Special Conditions of Employment
- Background check and drug screening
- Clear TB Test
- CPR and First Aid certification within 30 days of hire
- Certificate of Clearance or Fingerprinting may be required
TIPS
- Working in Expanded Learning is a way to start working in schools before completing a Bachelor’s Degree and Teaching Credential Program.
- Positions are often part time, making it easier to also attend classes and/or maintain other personal and family obligations.
- The school/district will let you know what level of clearance and type of fingerprints are required. SDCOE has fingerprinting services on our main campus and in San Marcos.
Be sure to also take a look at our Level Up event, to help you learn more about educator preparation programs at local San Diego County institutions.
Wish you had more information about how to apply for jobs? Prepare for job interviews? Complete your EdJoin profile? Or perhaps you just want to learn more about recruitment events. Check our recruitment events and resources!
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If you can't find your answers or need clarification, please reach out! We're happy to help.