Find out how to become a math teacher in North Carolina. Learn more about the education and licensing requirements needed to begin teaching math in North Carolina.
Math scores among North Carolina 4th grade students have been declining, with only 44% scoring proficient or better on required tests. Scores among 8th graders are stagnant, with only 35% deemed proficient. To improve students' knowledge of math, the state adopted the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, and needs well-qualified educators to teach this subject. Since Math is considered a core subject, and all teachers must be licensed as Highly Qualified. This is achieved by fulfilling educational requirements and passing the necessary exams before becoming licensed.
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Elementary school teachers are expected to have a degree in elementary education. Middle and high school teachers typically have either a major in math education or have completed coursework equivalent to the math major. Prospective math teachers without undergraduate coursework in math may wish to complete those courses to fulfill the education requirements, or can choose to take the PRAXIS subject exams.
All teachers must pass the three Core Academic Skills for Educators exams prior to becoming licensed, which cover Reading, Writing, and Mathematics. Elementary school teachers must also pass the Pearson Testing for North Carolina: Foundations of Reading and General Curriculum exam.
Middle and high school math teachers who have not completed undergraduate or graduate level coursework in math must also pass PRAXIS math subject exams. To teach Middle School, one must pass the PRAXIS Middle School Mathematics exam. To become a high school math teacher, one must pass PRAXIS Mathematics: Content Knowledge and Principles of Learning and Teaching: Grades