Q: I have never taken any education coursework, can I teach?

Yes, you can. If you have strong content knowledge in a subject (either because you majored in the subject, have 24 or more credit hours, or have taken and passed the PRAXIS II content-specific test or for some foreign languages the Oral Proficiency Interview - http://www.languagetesting.com/acad_opi.htm), and meet all other eligibility requirements to teach with Shelby County Schools, you can teach.  Applicants who are interested in teaching in one of our high-need subject areas (i.e., math, chemistry, foreign languages) can apply to become a part of the Memphis Teaching Fellows by clicking here.  Other program parters for alternate route applicants include Teach for America and The Memphis Teacher Residency. 

Q: What kind of license do I need to teach?

Alternate route teachers teach on a Transitional license in Tennessee.  A Transitional license is applied for on your behalf by Shelby County Schools once you have an offer of employment.  The license is good for one year and must be renewed after the first year.  Transitional licenses are only good for three years and can not be renewed for a third year.  In order to renew a Transitional license, you must have completed course work and show proof of being admitted to a Teacher Education Program.  If you secure a position with Shelby County Schools and do not submit this proof by early spring, you will be terminated and must reapply to the district.  You must have completed the requirements to become fully certified (successful completion of a Teacher Education Program) within three years.  Please note: having a Transitional license does not make you certified.  

Q: What are the requirements to renew my current transitional license?

If you have had a Tennessee Transitional License (formerly known as Alternative License) in years past, you will need to provide proof of enrollment in a Teacher Education Program including a letter from your TEP stating that you have met the requirements for timely completion of the program as well as official copies of your transcripts from your program.  Remember, you may only renew your Transitional license three times.  

Q: Which area/regional schools offer Teacher Education Programs?

The following area colleges and universities offer Teacher Education Programs. Please research each potential school’s tuition, course of study and requirements before enrolling.

Bethel University

Christian Brothers University

Crichton College

Freed-Hardeman University

Lambuth University

Lane College

LeMoyne-Owen College

Rhodes College

Union University

The University of Memphis

University of TN-Martin

Q: What sort of compensation can I expect as a Shelby County Schools teacher?

Teacher compensation and benefits for the unified district have not yet been addressed by the Shelby County Board of Education. The salary schedule for the 2012-13 school year is available for Shelby County Schools HERE.