Get Your Louisiana Teaching Certification
If teaching in Louisiana is your goal, then your path is pretty straightforward. If you received a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Louisiana and attended an approved teacher preparation program, then you have taken the first big step. If you went to school out of state, then you can obtain an Out-of-State Certificate that is valid for three years while you meet any additional requirements that you may need to meet Louisiana standards.
In order to receive certification in Louisiana, you will first need to get a Level 1 Professional Certificate. In addition to your Bachelor’s degree and completion of a teacher preparation program, you will need to pass all Praxis exams for your area of specialty and be recommended for certification from your university. This certification is valid for three years.
Once you have gotten your certification, your next step is to find a teaching position in Louisiana. If New Orleans is where you are headed, be aware that the schools are still recovering from the damage wrought by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. New Orleans Public Schools was once the largest district in New Orleans. There are schools in the district that have regained their ground and are rebuilding the district. Most of the schools from NOPS were sent to Recovery School District after the hurricane and still reside there until they are fully back on their proverbial feet. Baton Rouge is divided between two school districts — east and west — and both focus on strong community involvement and teacher support, evidenced through recent pay raises. Both areas of Shreveport and Lafayette offer a rich heritage and a vibrant culture that is a strong part of their fine educational system.
After having taught for three years with your Level 1 Professional Certificate, you will need to move to the Level 2 Professional Certificate. In order to earn this certification, you must pass the Louisiana Teacher Assistance and Assessment Program (LATAAP) and have taught for three years in your area of certification. This certification is valid for five years. Upon renewal, you will need to have completed 150 continuing learning units of approved professional development.
