• Find a job
  • For companies

How to become a certified teacher in Chicago

Learn how to become a certified teacher in Chicago via our short guide. Demistify salary, skills, requirements for this career?

To become a certified teacher in Chicago, you must first earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The degree should be in education or a related field, such as early childhood education, elementary education, or secondary education. You will also need to complete a teacher preparation program, which includes student teaching and coursework in teaching methods, curriculum development, and classroom management.

Once you have completed your education and teacher preparation program, you will need to pass the Illinois Certification Testing System (ICTS) exam. This exam measures your knowledge and skills in the subject area you wish to teach, as well as your understanding of teaching methods and classroom management.

After passing the ICTS exam, you can apply for your teaching certificate through the Illinois State Board of Education. You will need to submit your transcripts, test scores, and other required documentation, as well as pay a fee. Once your application is approved, you will receive your teaching certificate, which is valid for five years.

To maintain your teaching certification in Chicago, you will need to complete continuing education courses and professional development activities. You will also need to renew your certification every five years by completing the required coursework and paying a renewal fee.

Build your free Personality Resume

Get started

Key skills and competencies

To become a certified teacher in Chicago, there are several skills and competencies that are required. Firstly, a teacher must have a strong understanding of the subject matter they will be teaching. This includes knowledge of the curriculum, instructional strategies, and assessment techniques. Additionally, teachers must be able to effectively communicate with students, parents, and colleagues. This requires strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to actively listen and respond to feedback. Another important skill for teachers in Chicago is the ability to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners. This includes understanding and accommodating for different learning styles, cultural backgrounds, and abilities. Teachers must also be able to create a positive and inclusive classroom environment that promotes respect, collaboration, and engagement. In addition to these skills, teachers in Chicago must also possess strong organizational and time-management skills. This includes the ability to plan and deliver effective lessons, manage classroom behavior, and keep accurate records of student progress. Teachers must also be able to adapt to changing circumstances and be flexible in their approach to teaching. Finally, teachers in Chicago must be committed to ongoing professional development. This includes staying up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in education, as well as seeking out opportunities for growth and improvement. By continuously developing their skills and competencies, certified teachers in Chicago can provide the best possible education for their students.

Local salary expectations or estimates

As a certified teacher in Chicago, you can expect to earn a competitive salary that reflects your experience and qualifications. According to the Chicago Teachers Union, the starting salary for a new teacher with a bachelor's degree is $56,665, while a teacher with a master's degree and 10 years of experience can earn up to $100,000. Additionally, teachers in Chicago are eligible for benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. It's important to note that salary expectations may vary depending on the school district and type of school you work in. However, with the right education and certification, you can pursue a fulfilling career as a teacher in Chicago while earning a fair and livable wage.

Discover your career fit

Free Career Interest Test

Free Personality tests

All of the following assessment tools explore an individual's personality thoroughly, although the Big5 is the gold standard among personality assessments. And what’s key is that are all available for free here:

Check out our remote job board

Get started
Gyfted 2021, Palo Alto, CA 94305. All rights reserved.