How to Get Teaching Jobs in Michigan

Michigan, like most states, experiences teacher shortages regularly.

To become a teacher in Michigan, you will need a teaching certificate that qualifies you to teach the grade level and subject you intend to teach. Schools districts in Michigan are looking for qualified teachers who are enthusiastic about educating children and teens. Present yourself professionally to interviewers and express your desire to teach students genuinely to obtain a teaching position.

Instructions

1. Complete an approved educator preparation program. Programs vary depending on what grades and subject you plan to teach. The Michigan State Department of Education offers two different grade level certificates, including: elementary grades kindergarten through eight and secondary grades six through 12 with an endorsement in a particular subject area. Teachers with an elementary certificate can only teach grades six through eight if they are endorsed in the specific subject areas being taught.

2. Obtain passing scores on the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification.

3. Apply for a Provisional Teaching Certificate, which is valid for six years.

4. Search for job openings on the Michigan Jobs and Career Portal website. Also, search for job openings by visiting individual school district websites and by browsing job ads in your local newspaper.

5. Submit employment applications to the personnel departments in any Michigan school district. Applications may be paper-based or electronic, depending on the school districts. Contact the personnel departments at each separate Michigan school district for instructions.

6. Notify principals once you have completed the application process and request an interview for any positions you are qualified to take. Dress professionally for all interviews. Bring along a resume and teaching portfolio with you when interviewing.

7. Send a thank-you note to principals who interviewed you and also follow-up with a phone call about a week after the interview.

8. Review your teaching contract after you are offered a teaching position. If it is acceptable to you, sign it and begin your teaching career.

References

• Michigan Department of Education: Facts on Educator Certification
• Michigan Department of Education: Teacher Testing
• Michigan.gov: Michigan Job Portal

Resources

• Michigan Department of Education:Online Educator Certification System
• Michigan Department of Education: School District List