Traditional Pathway

West Virginia is home to a wide variety of colleges and universities which provide outstanding traditional programs for beginning educators.  These programs ensure that our teachers are ready to provide students with a world-class education. 

To get started, visit www.teachwv.com to review a list of state-approved program providers.  Contact an approved provider to inquire about their programs which lead to licensure. 

Participants in state-approved teacher preparation programs must successfully complete required coursework, exams, and a student teaching experience to qualify for a Professional Teaching Certificate.

Teacher-in-Residence

The school district must have a Teacher-in-Residence agreement with the applicant's college and a qualifying vacancy.  These employees receive a stipend while teaching.  

Candidate eligibility criteria includes:

• Enrolled and near completion of a traditional WVBE-approved educator preparation program leading to licensure
• General requirements (ex. U.S. citizenship; good character, age 18, etc.)
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Passing score on basic skills and content specific Praxis exams
• An official recommendation from the approved Teacher-in-Residence program

 First Class Full-Time Permit

The school district must have a qualifying vacancy and make an offer of employment.

Candidate eligibility criteria includes:

• Enrolled in a traditional WVBE-approved educator preparation program with 25% completed
• General requirements (ex. U.S. citizenship, good character, age 18, etc.)
• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• An official recommendation from the approved educator preparation program

Individuals working on permit must annually complete renewal criteria, including 6 qualifying semester hours with a minimum 3.0 GPA.