How to Become a Teacher, School Principal, or Superintendent in New York

Becoming a Teacher in New York

1. Education Requirements
   • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
   • Complete a New York State approved teacher preparation program
2. Testing Requirements
   • Pass the Educating All Students (EAS) test
   • Pass the Content Specialty Test (CST) for your subject area
   • Pass the edTPA (Teacher Performance Assessment)
3. Licensure
   • Apply for Initial Certification, valid for five years
   • Complete fingerprinting and background check
4. Professional Certification
   • After three years of teaching experience
   • Complete a master’s degree program
   • Complete mentored experience in the first year of teaching

Becoming a School Principal in New York

1. Experience
   • Minimum of three years of teaching experience
2. Education
   • Master’s degree in educational leadership or a related field
3. Certification
   • Complete a state-approved School Building Leader (SBL) preparation program
   • Pass the New York State School Building Leader Assessment
4. Application
   • Apply for School Building Leader certification through the NYSED TEACH system

Becoming a Superintendent in New York

1. Experience
   • Minimum of three years as a teacher and additional years in school administration
2. Education
   • Master’s degree in educational leadership or administration
   • Many districts prefer candidates with a doctoral degree
3. Certification
   • Hold a valid New York School District Leader (SDL) certification
   • Pass the New York State School District Leader Assessment
4. Application
   • Apply directly to school districts for superintendent positions