How to become a preschool teacher in Ohio, OH

To become a preschool teacher in Ohio, there are several steps that you need to follow. Firstly, you need to obtain a high school diploma or GED. After that, you need to complete a teacher preparation program that is approved by the Ohio Department of Education. This program should include coursework in early childhood education, child development, and teaching methods.

Once you have completed your teacher preparation program, you need to pass the Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) exam. This exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in early childhood education. You will need to pass both the content and pedagogy exams to become a licensed preschool teacher in Ohio.

After passing the OAE exam, you can apply for your teaching license through the Ohio Department of Education. You will need to submit your transcripts, passing OAE scores, and other required documents to obtain your license.

In addition to obtaining your teaching license, you may also need to obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. This credential is recognized nationally and demonstrates your competence in working with young children.

Finally, you may need to complete ongoing professional development to maintain your teaching license and stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods and best practices in early childhood education. This may include attending workshops, conferences, and other training opportunities.