Teachers are paid well in Florida. The average salary for public school teachers is about $47,000 per year, up 15% over the last four years. A starting salary of $33,400 makes Florida the 26th highest in the country when the local economy is factored in. The Miami area has the highest salaries in the state but, regardless of the district, teaching in Florida can provide a good living.
In Florida, the teachers-student ratio differs between school districts but generally they are low; the state average is 15 - 1. The Palm Beach school system has a ratio of 14 to 1, at Clearwater Bayside High School it is 7 to 1, but in the Miami system it is higher.
Coconut High School has a ratio of 20 -1 but, this does not necessarily mean that classes will be large.
The state is trying hard to attract and retain good teachers and the government has passed legislation that will improve the conditions for teachers. There is a tuition reimbursement program, a loan forgiveness program which will eliminate a teacher’s student loan, and a stipend program which allows teachers to buy the specific materials that they want.
Conditions are good and teachers are considering positions in Florida.
Florida Teacher Requirements
Florida's educational system is in a state of extreme change. Because many schools are underperforming, the state is planning one of the largest changes in a state's school system in United States history. This makes many people wonder: what is the future of teaching in Florida?
First, Florida is projected to be a great place for new teachers or those looking to relocate. Because of mandatory class size limits and a huge percentage of current teachers poised to retire, Florida will soon be in need of a large teaching work force.
Florida is a multi-cultural state with a diverse population. This is expected to continue the sharp increase in the future. People will find more success teaching in Florida if they have the skills and language abilities needed to work with students from Spanish-speaking homes.
This state is unique in that it is interested in placing master's level teachers in most classrooms. The pay rate is high and projected to increase as the state looks for more ways to improve their schools. If you are interested in teaching in Florida, the future holds many opportunities for you to find success and professional fulfillment.