Pennsylvania State Requirements for a Public School Music Teacher

In Pennsylvania, all music teachers in public schools must have a license prior to working in the field. The Pennsylvania Department of Education issues this mandatory credential in accordance with the qualifications established in the state's educational laws. Once licensed, Pennsylvania music teachers have the ability to work in public classrooms with students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

Education

To receive a license to work as a music teacher in Pennsylvania, candidates must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree. In addition, all prospective music teachers must finish a program in teacher preparation that is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. As of September 2011, 38 colleges and universities in Pennsylvania offered teacher preparation programs in music. Most approved schools offer bachelor's degree programs for prospective music teachers to complete both education requirements simultaneously.

Examinations

All prospective music teachers in public schools in Pennsylvania must pass a series of examinations administered by Education Testing Services. Called the Praxis I, the first examination measures candidates' abilities in reading comprehension, writing and mathematics. Next, candidates take a 100-question examination that deals with language arts, mathematics, citizenship, social sciences and natural sciences. Those who pass the second examination then take a test related specifically to music. The exam has 120 questions and includes a listening section.

Other Requirements

After passing the necessary tests, all prospective public school music teachers in Pennsylvania must complete an application packet. This packet consists of three forms, which are available for downloading from the Pennsylvania Department of Education's website. Along with the application, candidates must pay a fee, the amount of which was $100 as of September 2011. In addition, all prospective music teachers must obtain background check clearances from the Pennsylvania State Police, the Department of Public Welfare and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Endorsement

Candidates who already hold a license as a music teacher in another state qualify for a Pennsylvania license through an endorsement program. This allows out-of-state teachers to receive the license without completing any additional training; however, candidates must still pass the exam series required in Pennsylvania. Additionally, out-of-state music teachers must submit a verification of their current licenses and pass Pennsylvania's background checks. Out-of-state candidates must also complete an application packet and pay a fee, the amount of which was $160 as of September 2011.

References

• Pennsylvania Department of Education: Approved Programs
• ETS: Testing Requirements
• ETS: Fundamental Subjects-Content Knowledge
• ETS: Music Content Exam
• Pennsylvania Department of Education: Applications and Forms
• Pennsylvania Department of Education: Background Checks
• Pennsylvania Department of Education: FAQs
• Pennsylvania Department of Education: Out-of-State Applicants