Making a Difference: Pathways to Teacher Licensure
In New Hampshire and nationwide, there is a critical shortage of teachers across subjects, as well as instructional specialists, educational specialists, and administrators. From English to math, science to special education, there is a pressing need for qualified professionals to fill these essential roles.
Making a Difference: Pathways to Teacher Licensure
24% of Educators in New Hampshire are 55 or Older
As experienced educators retire, school districts are struggling to fill these essential roles. Those with teacher licensure are in high demand and have a unique opportunity to make a positive, lifelong impact on the next generation.
Teacher licensure programs are designed to give educators the skills they need to improve their practice and help students learn more. A teacher licenses can also help educators advance more quickly up the salary scale.
Sources
National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education. Average and median age of public school teachers and percentage distribution of teachers by age category, sex, and state: 2017–18 (visited September 2021). New Hampshire Department of Education. New Applicant or Add an Endorsement. (visited September 2021). National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Why Certify? (visited September 2021).
Pathways to Teacher Licensure in New Hampshire
Approved Educator Preparation Program
This is the most common pathway, with about 60% of licensed teachers going through approved licensure programs. Licensure can be earned by either completing an approved bachelor’s program or a post-baccalaureate teacher licensure program and passing the required content and subject area examinations. This pathway is designed to prepare future educators with a broad set of skills and knowledge to best serve their students.
Site-Based Licensing Plan (SBLP)
With a bachelor’s degree you may be eligible for a Site-Based Licensing Plan (regulated by the NH Department of Education). This less common pathway requires candidates to receive a statement of eligibility (SOE) from a senior district official. Once an SOE has been obtained, candidates have three years to complete the licensure requirements while working under an Intern Authorization. Candidates are assigned a mentor who they work with to develop a rigorous Individualized Professional Development Plan. Individuals working under SBLPs can find support through CPSO in two ways:
1. Enroll in credit-bearing courses or licensure programs aligned to the competencies listed on the SBLP.
2. Register for non-credit professional development units aligned to the competencies listed on the SBLP.
Career Advancement Opportunities
For teachers who have already earned their initial licensure, there are also additional career advancement opportunities.
Graduate Degrees and Licensure
Earning a graduate degree or license often provides experienced teachers the opportunity to serve as a lead teacher within a department, supporting curriculum development and working with less experienced teachers to help them improve their skills. Teachers with higher levels of education often have higher earnings and the potential to transition to an administrative role in the future.
Accelerated Pathway to a Master’s Degree in Instruction & Leadership
The Instruction and Leadership (M.S.) is approved to be taken on an accelerated basis in articulation with the following undergraduate programs:
Early Childhood Education with ECE/ECSE (B.S.)
English Language Arts with ECE/ECSE (B.S.)
“ Today's teacher candidates grow through strong connections—with children, with mentors, and with the educational community. At CPS, we support them personally and professionally so they can build confidence, develop essential skills, and make a meaningful impact in their classrooms.”
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Kate Shumway-Pitt, M.Ed. Center Director at UNH College of Professional Studies
National Board Licensure
Licensed teachers with more than three years of teaching experience can apply for licensure from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. National Board Licensure is available in 25 license areas representing 16 different disciplines and four developmental levels. Applicants must complete a computerbased assessment and submit three portfolios demonstrating instruction practices and competencies. National Board Licensure helps teachers to improve their practices, enhance student learning, and advance their professional opportunities.
Advanced Endorsements
Teachers who have earned or are pursuing a graduate degree or license may also have opportunities for advanced endorsements in their specialization that can help them stand out from their colleagues. For example, a licensed special education teacher can earn an advanced endorsement in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to better tailor their practices to their students’ needs.
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