Vermont: Teaching Credentialing in Vermont

The average teacher's salary in Vermont was $44,535 in 2005 placing it at #22 on the list of average teacher salaries. This was an improvement from the previous year when it was in 26th place and experienced an increase of six percent. This was a major accomplishment considering the average increase is only slight over two percent. This goes to show Vermont remains loyal to the concept that a better education means a better future for everyone.

Vermont is currently experiencing a high teacher retention rate. This is good news for students and though it may seem like bad news for those who are seeking employment, there is always a need for well-educated, highly-qualified teachers. One of the reasons teacher retention is on the rise is because of the higher wages as well as more sophisticated and effective teacher mentoring programs. As more money is being invested in the school system, future teachers will be expected to possess more qualifications.

Current teachers and administrators with experience and qualifications can create mobility within their careers while they strive to be the best educators possible. One of the best ways to do this is by investing in an advanced degree. With a master's degree, PhD, or administration credentials you can expect to not only be better qualified as a teacher or administrator but also make more money because of your education.

Individuals wishing to obtain teacher certification in Vermont must first complete a teacher education program. In addition all applicants for teacher certification must possess at least a bachelor's degree. Those individuals who have a bachelor's degree but not in education or those who have not yet earned a teaching certification can obtain an alternate teaching certificate provided they meet certain requirements.

In most cases, teacher education programs are comprised of both fieldwork and curricula. In the curricula portion the applicant will learn foundational knowledge and skills, become educated in the art and science of teaching, learn how to help students conduct research, and utilize the knowledge they have obtained in their field of study. The fieldwork phase may include any combination of making observations in the field, student teaching, and internships.

In order to become a certified teacher in Vermont you must complete the Basic Skill Test requirement and pass any subject area competence assessments that are required within your desired teaching area. The Basic Skills Test is the PPST (Pre-Professional Skills Test) and the Subject Area Competence is the Praxis II.

There are many benefits to becoming a certified teacher in Vermont including the following:

  • Vermont provides incentives for those who wish to teach in high-needs schools or within those subject areas that are experiencing shortages. Vermont provides loan forgiveness. support to those teachers who are willing to teach in the shortage subject areas.
  • The average elementary teacher salary is $46,470 while secondary teachers average $48,970. This is approximately 130 percent of the salaries of average Vermont workers.
  • Teachers in Vermont receive an average of fifteen days of vacation annually.

Return to the career guide index or read other resources from the teacher credentialing in the united states section below:

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