Steps to become a teacher in West Virginia

To become a classroom teacher in the State of West Virginia, it is important to go to college after finishing high school to earn your BA degree in education or another subject that is appropriate for a classroom-style setting.

1. West Virginia requires all new teachers to have earned a BA degree from an accredited institute of higher learning.
   

   Walden University Online
   Western Governors University
   Capella University
   Ashford University
   Jones International University
   Devry University
   

   * There are so many accredited colleges that offer teaching degrees, and it is very important to ensure that the college you select meets your budget and convenience. So get free information from more than one college to make sure that you are making the right choice.


2. West Virginia requires all BA degree holders to advance their education through teacher preparation coursework that meets with state requirements. Traditionally, these courses are taken through an accredited college or university and include time spent inside of an actual classroom participating in student teaching duties.
3. West Virginia offers an alternative way of achieving teacher preparation courses for those who have earned their BA degree in a subject that is not education. To find out more about these alternative method requirements, contact the individual school district that you would like to work for.
4. West Virginia requires all new teachers to pass a series of skills tests that can include Praxis I, Praxis II, and the PPST exams.
5. Download the West Virginia Application form. You will also need to fill out form 4B and form 7 found here.
6. West Virginia requires all new teachers to go through a background check.
7. Include the following in your final packet:
   • $34 processing fee
   • background check
   • $15 fee for each form attached to your information sheet
   Make all checks payable to West Virginia Department of Education
   Have materials sent to:
   West Virginia Department of Education
   Office of Professional Preparation
   Building 6, Room 252
   1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East
   Charleston, West Virginia 25305
   Phone: (304) 558-7010


8. To renew teaching licenses in West Virginia, it is required that teachers participate in an ongoing professional development program that includes educations and learning that help to keep teachers up-to-date in the classroom as teaching trends change over time.

The West Virginia Department of Education keeps a job opening board posted on their internet site with downloadable job applications, forms, and information. For people considering a career in West Virginia education, the West Virginia Department of Education internet site holds a wealth of information.