How to Get a Teaching Job in Texas

Teaching in Texas

Teachers in Texas earn an impressive starting salary of $43,000.  Having a graduate degree or teaching a critical shortage subject can enable you to earn even more.  In addition, the low cost of living makes working and residing in Texas even more appealing.

Already Certified in Texas?

Start applying now!  Network, make sure your applications are complete, and consider adding on additional certification areas by taking the required exams.  Dust off your resume, and make sure it looks professional. 

Not Certified to Teach?

If you are not certified to teach yet, you can start by applying at private and charter schools.  They often hire candidates that have not yet passed their TExES content exam.

In addition to applying for jobs, you should choose and enroll in an alternative certification program.  Be sure to find the one that is the best fit for you.  You can find all online, all in class, or hybrid programs. 

Once you enroll in an alternative certification program and pass your TExES content exam, proactively apply for jobs at districts, as well as charter and private schools. 

Here are some tips for maximizing your job search efforts:

• Review and update your resume.  Include any experience you have teaching, training, or working with children.
• Keep a list of districts and schools that you have applied to.  Follow up to make sure your applications are complete.  If you have an incomplete application, schools will likely ignore it.  Most districts have online portals, so log on and ensure they have received all required paperwork.
• Consider taking as many TExES content exams as possible.  This will make you eligible for more jobs, and will also make your resume stronger.
• Taking TExES content exams in subjects that are critical needs areas will make you very marketable.  Consider secondary Math, Science, Special Education, and Spanish LOTE.
• Keep in mind a lot of people want to teach elementary school.  Don't assume you will get a job solely by passing the Generalist EC-6 exam.  You can start with it, but add on ESL, Special Education, or another certification area/endorsement by passing another exam.
• Network as much as possible.  If you have any contacts that work in schools or districts, tell them you are looking for a teaching job.  Be sure to let them know about any qualifications you have.
• Don't give up.  Keep applying, networking, and consider emailing principals or hand delivering resumes to schools.  Check their websites first to make sure that contacting principals does not violate their policy.
• Learn as much as you can about education.  It will help you in interviews, and also in your new career.
• Consider working as an aide or a substitute teacher. Although the pay is pretty low, you will make invaluable contacts that will likely help you secure a teaching job.

Are You From Another State, But Want to Teach in Texas?

• Look for all online alternative certification programs that will allow you to do your coursework from your home state.
• TExES exams are offered in some places outside of Texas, so you might have a convenient location to take your test.
• After you enter an alternative certification program and pass your TExES content exam, apply as much as possible.  Network as much as you can from out of state.
• Keep in mind that in state applicants are usually more appealing.  Consider moving to Texas and take a job that you can do while you work on your certification.  Texas's economy is going strong!
• If you have friends or family in Texas, consider staying with them for 12 weeks while you complete a clinical teaching assignment in Texas.  After successfully completing the requirements and the 12 week program, you earn your Standard Certificate and are very marketable.