If your goal is to become a teacher in Illinois, the easiest way to do so is by completing your education at a state-approved certificate preparation program. If you go this route, you will be eligible to take advantage of the entitlement process to obtain certification, and this is the most streamlined method. If your education was completed out of state, you will need to ensure that the Illinois coursework and testing requirements are met and that the preparation program you completed is approved by the state of Illinois.

For those who completed a state-approved certificate preparation program in Illinois, the certification process is very simple. Upon completion of all coursework requirements, your institution will notify the Illinois State Board of Education that you are "recommended" for certification. If all testing requirements have been met, then you can submit an application form and fees to receive your Initial certification.

Once you have been certified to teach in Illinois, you will need to find a job. With the diverse nature of Chicago, it is not surprising that the schools in the Chicago Public Schools district are equally diverse. In addition to traditional schools, there are high-quality magnet schools, military schools, schools that offer math and science concentrations, small schools, and charter schools. Rockford Public Schools offers a fresh approach to education through their availability of several styles of elementary schools ranging from specialized programs in art, science, or technology to Spanish immersion to Montessori method. Rockville provides the best of urban access in a small-town community. Several school districts cover Aurora and Naperville, just to the west of Chicago, and provide high academic standards in schools with a much less urban feel than those in Chicago.

Teaching for four years with your initial certification will bring you to renewal time. In order to renew your certificate and obtain a Standard certification, you will need to have performed one of several options which range from completing an advanced degree to eight semester hours of graduate level coursework to obtaining Continuing Education Units. The Standard certification lasts for five years and holds the same options for renewal at that time.