In order to begin teaching, Memphis corps members are required to take and pass exams called The PRAXIS Series: Professional Assessments for Beginning Teachers. Specific tests vary according to position.
Memphis corps members can become licensed to teach within two years through a partnership with the University of Memphis or Christian Brothers University. Corps members can also choose to earn a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), which requires students to take two courses in addition to the licensure coursework. Both programs combine Teach For America’s required professional development with practical, applied coursework. The integrated nature of these partnerships streamlines the licensure process. Corps members receive course credit for their institute experience as well as for the required 100 professional development/mentoring hours for each program; additionally, corps members are not required to complete either program’s student teaching hours.
Corps members are required to take two courses each year to remain on an alternative license and in their positions. The certification program can be completed in two years, while the master’s program requires either summer coursework or a third year of studies. Many corps members choose to take summer coursework regardless of their enrolled program to reduce their course load during the school year. The cost for either program is $1,225 per course. Many of our current corps members choose to repay the entire cost of tuition each year with their AmeriCorps education awards, which amount to $4,725 per year.
| Costs to Begin Teaching |
|---|
| Testing: $200-300 |
| Processing: $40 |
| Certification Program Costs: $2,450/yr |
| Costs to Maintain Emergency Credential |
|---|
| N/A |
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