Embarking on a career in early childhood education in Arizona requires adherence to specific requirements set by the Arizona Department of Education. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from completing teacher preparation programs to obtaining certifications and exploring the job landscape.
Teacher Preparation Programs Overview
To become a preschool teacher in Arizona, you can pursue an early childhood education certificate or endorsement. Approved teacher preparation programs, available at the undergraduate and graduate levels, are recommended.
Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree with specific early childhood education coursework and practicum hours may also qualify.
Alternative Pathways
Candidates with existing degrees can explore alternative pathways to teacher certification, such as completing an Arizona State Board Approved Alternative Path to Certification program.
Example Programs:
- Grand Canyon University: B.S. or M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education;
- Walden University: Online Early Childhood Studies Programs;
- Arizona State University – Online: Early Childhood Education, MEd.
Professional Knowledge Exam
Aspiring preschool teachers must pass the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA) Professional Knowledge Early Childhood exam. Exceptions may apply for those with three years of full-time teaching in early childhood education.
Subject Knowledge Exam
Additionally, candidates need to pass the AEPA’s Subject Knowledge Early Childhood Education exam.
Structured English Immersion (SEI) Training
Verification of SEI training is mandatory, involving at least 3 semester hours or 45 clock hours of state-approved training.
Initial Provisional Certification
Upon meeting the exam requirements, apply for the Initial Provisional Certification, valid for three years in Early Childhood, Birth-Grade 3/Birth-Age 8.
Fingerprint Card
Submission of an Arizona Identity fingerprint card is necessary.
Example Certification Programs
University of Phoenix: Associate of Arts with a concentration in Elementary Education
Conversion to Standard Certification
Convert the provisional certification to standard by completing a Conversion form. Provide evidence of two years of full-time teaching under the provisional certificate and an additional 3 semester hours of approved SEI training.
Renewal
Standard certification is valid for six years, renewable with proof of 180 clock hours of professional development or 12 semester hours of education.
Example Certification Renewal Options
Pursue a master’s degree in early childhood education for broader opportunities.
Arizona Department of Health Services
While the Arizona Department of Education oversees state-funded preschool programs, the Department of Health Services regulates private preschools and childcare programs.
Resources
Explore resources for private preschool programs on the Department of Education’s Early Childhood Education website.
Job Outlook and Salaries
The demand for preschool administrators, teachers, and special educators in Arizona is expected to grow significantly between 2016 and 2026.
Salaries (2018 Median):
- Preschool Administrators: $37,420 – $60,420;
- Preschool Teachers: $27,810 – $44,330;
- Preschool Special Educators: $42,930 – $65,020.
Regional Examples
- Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale: 30% increase in job openings;
- Tucson: Median salary for Preschool Teachers – $28,210;
- Flagstaff: Median salary for Preschool Teachers – $34,860;
- Lake Havasu City-Kingman: Median salary for Preschool Teachers – $24,570.
Advanced Career Paths and Ongoing Professional Development
While a standard certification opens doors to teaching opportunities, many educators in Arizona opt for advanced degrees to enhance their skills and career prospects.
Pursuing a master’s degree, such as a Master of Arts in Education/Early Childhood Education, is a common choice for those looking to delve deeper into the field.
Example Programs:
WGU: Master of Arts in Teaching – Elementary Education
Importance of Ongoing Professional Development
Maintaining a standard certification requires ongoing professional development. Arizona educators must show proof of completing at least 180 clock hours of professional development activities, 12 semester hours of education, or a combination of both during the certification renewal period.
Learn about the steps and opportunities to become a preschool teacher in Wisconsin.
Diverse Learning Opportunities
Arizona offers various early childhood professional development activities, courses, and programs. Educators can explore workshops, conferences, and online courses to stay abreast of the latest educational trends and methodologies.
Diverse Preschool Environments in Arizona
Preschool teachers in Arizona work in diverse environments, including urban, rural, and tribal settings. Adapting teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of children in different settings is essential.
Example Preschool Employers:
- Phoenix Children’s Academy;
- Tucson Community School;
- Flagstaff Cooperative Preschool;
- New Day School (Lake Havasu City).
Navigating Private Preschool Regulations: Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS)
Private preschools in Arizona are regulated by the Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS) Office of Child Care Licensure. It’s crucial for educators in private preschools to be familiar with and adhere to DHS regulations.
Emphasizing Quality Learning
Private preschools often focus on creating quality learning experiences. Educators can find valuable resources through the Arizona Department of Education’s Early Childhood Education website, even though the department doesn’t provide direct oversight for private programs.
In Summary
Embarking on a career in early childhood education in Arizona involves a multi-step process, from education and certification to ongoing professional development. The diverse landscape of preschool environments in the state offers educators opportunities to make a significant impact on young learners.
By staying informed about regulations, embracing continuous learning, and exploring advanced degrees, educators can build fulfilling and successful careers shaping the future of Arizona’s youth.