Pathways to Teaching

Subscribe for updates from our team to discover your pathway to teaching in NYC. 

Subscribe

Individuals must have a valid teaching certificate from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to be eligible for a permanent teaching position in our schools, but there are many different paths to fulfill those requirements. We value the unique experiences our new teachers bring to the table and offer a wide range of pathways to the classroom.

Certified Teachers and Current Students of Education

If you are certified to teach in New York State, or are currently enrolled in a teacher preparation program and expect to have your New York State teaching certificate by the fall, you have the basic credentials you need to submit your NYC Online Teacher Application. 

 Subscribe to receive information on upcoming opportunities.

You can review the typical application process here. 

If you are a teacher certified in another state, you likely can still bring your talents to New York City classrooms as long as you take the required tests and workshops before you begin teaching. You should also check that your teaching certificate is accepted by NYSED for reciprocity.

Candidates Who Are Not Certified

Alternative Certification Pathways: If you have not yet been certified or completed a teacher preparation program, you can launch a rewarding career in the classroom through an alternative teacher preparation program. Professionals and recent college graduates can choose from one of our NYC Public Schools alternative certification programs, which allow applicants to earn certification while teaching. NYC Public Schools alternative certification programs, like the NYC Teaching Fellows and NYC Teaching Collaborative, prepare new teachers to become certified in areas that meet the city's greatest needs. 

Traditional Certification Pathways: Aspiring teachers can attend a traditional preparation program at a university school of education to obtain a New York State teaching certificate. As part of their coursework, students enrolled in schools of education have the option to practice their craft as a student teacher. In classroom assignments arranged by their university, student teachers gain hands-on experience in New York City classrooms under the guidance of a practiced cooperating teacher.

Other routes include unique pathways for pre-K teachers and Career and Technical Educators.