If teaching in Hawaii is your dream job, then you have a straightforward path to finding your happiness. Becoming certified to teach in Hawaii only requires education and an examination. If you finished your Bachelor’s degree at an approved institution in Hawaii, it will be even easier for you. However, if you finished elsewhere and hold a valid license to teach in another state, you just need to take a few extra steps to become eligible to teach in Hawaii.

For those who have a Bachelor’s degree from an approved institution in Hawaii, you just need to complete the application forms available at Hawaii Teacher Standards Board and pass the Hawaii Praxis exam. Upon completion of these tasks, you will receive a license to teach in Hawaii that lasts for five years. If you are coming from out of Hawaii with a valid license in another state, you will need to submit proof of your license, proof that you have completed a state-approved teaching program, proof that you passed all tests to obtain your license in another state, and proof that you passed tests for content knowledge, basic skills, and pedagogy.

Once you are licensed, you will need to find a place to teach in Hawaii. The island of Oahu has four school districts, including one that covers only the city of Honolulu. The other three service the rest of the island. Maui School District has schools on the islands of Maui, Moloka`i, and Lana`i, and provides a less touristy environment that is more rural, relaxed. Supposedly these residents are considered the most friendly in the world. Kaua`i School District is located on the island of Kaua’i and is the smallest of the districts. It offers a rural setting with a lush environment. Hawaii School District is located on the main island and offers a diverse landscape ranging from beaches to volcanoes. This beauty can also bring the challenge of needing to travel a large distance to service remote schools.

After teaching in Hawaii for five years, you will need to renew your certification. Due to the unique nature of the Hawaiian islands, not all teachers have the same access to standard continuing education credits obtained through college classes or workshops. Therefore, the process of recertification is done a bit differently in Hawaii. During the first year of teaching, you must set up two goals and indicate what activities you will perform to reach these goals. (A list of suggested activities is available.) During years two through four you must complete the activities or experiences and fully document the details. Finally, in the fifth year, the teacher will submit the completed activities at least six months prior to his or her certification expiration date.