Alternative education teachers help students who struggle in the traditional school setting. These children are placed in another location that gives them the opportunity to learn at their own pace and in their own style by using online computer programs, for example. A person who wishes to become an alternative education teacher should complete four years of college. He or she also needs to gain field experience and pursue industry licensure to enter the field.
If you would like to become an alternative education teacher, you need to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program in education. Getting into this type of training program requires submission of your high school diploma or the equivalent certification along with a completed admission application. Your chosen training establishment will also want to see your most recent standardized test results and your high school transcript.
Courses in an education program will give you the foundation that you need to thrive in this career area. You can choose to study elementary education if you wish to become an alternative education teacher at a school that caters to younger children. Classes in this area of focus cover math, science, and several other subject areas. Meanwhile, majoring in secondary education is necessary if you are interested in working with high school-aged kids. During your training program, you can choose to concentrate on one chief subject area such as history or literature, but must also take a myriad of teacher preparation courses because you will be responsible for assisting students with a wide range of subjects in an alternative school setting.
Teaching programs typically require students to complete internships to gain real-world experience. You should look for local schools that offer alternative programs for students. When you begin on-the-job training to become an alternative education teacher, you must practice developing unique programs that meet the needs of children who do not perform effectively in a regular classroom environment. Getting used to collaborating with social service agencies and parents is also helpful during your internship.
Employers often require job candidates in this industry to complete licensing requirements as well. This involves taking and passing a test to earn the credential and then maintaining your license by fulfilling continuing education requirements. Afterward, you can apply for a job to become an alternative education teacher by submitting your resume, a copy of your college transcript, and proof of having earned your teaching license to your potential employer.