Certification Needed to Be a Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
A 2007-2009 survey conducted by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) stated that more than 1.1 million children attend state-funded preschool education. Children attending pre-kindergarten programs are better prepared for kindergarten, which sets the foundation for a good elementary education. As interest in strong pre-kindergarten programs grows, so does the need for qualified pre-kindergarten teachers.
Other People Are Reading
-
History
-
According to the project Pre-K Now, the preschool concept in America dates to the Industrial Revolution, when factories charities and churches organized "infant schools" that allowed workers to spend their day in the factory. Throughout the 20th century pre-kindergarten programs such as Head Start were established to meet the needs of lower income families.
Pre-Kindergarten Signficance
-
Studies cited by Pre-K Now demonstrate the benefits of pre-kindergarten, including increasing high school graduation rates, reducing grade repetition and improving productivity in classrooms. As today's elementary school academic standards increase, so does the desire for pre-kindergarten availability for all students.
-
Pre-Kindergarten vs. Preschool
-
While the two terms are often interchanged, the experiences are different. Pre-kindergarten refers to a program affiliated with K-12 school systems that gives 3- and 4-year olds the tools needed to succeed in kindergarten. Preschool describes a variety of early childhood education programs, including child care and nursery school.
Teacher Candidate Backgrounds
-
The best prepared teacher candidates have earned a bachelor's degree and taken additional training specializing in early-childhood education. Many colleges and universities offer early-childhood certification programs.
Certification Programs
-
Candidates for pre-kindergarten programs affiliated with public school systems should possess certification in early-childhood education. Certification requirements and programs differ from state to state. Someone interested in early-childhood education should contact a particular state's Department of Education regarding state specific requirements.
-
