New York offers competitive salaries for teachers, strong union support, and a commitment to professional growth. Beyond the practical benefits, teaching in New York allows you to make a lasting impact on students from diverse backgrounds and to grow in a state with world-class educational resources. Here’s your step-by-step guide to transitioning your teaching career to New York State.
Step 1: Transferring Your Teaching License
To teach in New York State, you’ll need certification from the New York State Education Department (NYSED). Here’s how to start:
- Check Certification Reciprocity:
New York has reciprocity agreements with many states, making it easier for out-of-state teachers to transfer their credentials. Visit the NYSED Office of Teaching Initiatives website to see if your state qualifies and identify the specific pathway that fits your credentials. - Submit Your Credentials:
Create a TEACH account on the NYSED website to apply for certification. You’ll need to upload your out-of-state teaching license, official transcripts, and proof of experience. Depending on your background, you may qualify for a Transitional Certificate while completing additional New York-specific requirements. - Complete Required Workshops:
New York requires all teachers to complete workshops for educator certification:- Child Abuse Identification and Reporting
- School Violence Intervention and Prevention
- Dignity for All Students Act (DASA)
These workshops are available online or through New York-based providers.
- Pass Necessary Exams:
Depending on your certification area, you may need to take New York-specific exams, like the Educating All Students Test (EAS) or a Content Specialty Test (CST).
Step 2: Find Where Teachers Are Needed Most
Some areas of New York face significant teacher shortages, particularly in:
- Special Education
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Bilingual Education
- Career and Technical Education (CTE)
New York City, Long Island, and parts of upstate New York have high demand for teachers in these fields. Urban and rural districts often offer incentives for educators in hard-to-fill positions.
Step 3: Financial Assistance and Incentives
New York offers financial programs to support teachers relocating or expanding their credentials:
- New York State Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program:
If you commit to teaching in high-need areas for at least five years, you may qualify for loan forgiveness of up to $5,000 per year. - Albert Shanker Grant:
This grant covers the cost of certification-related exams and workshops for eligible candidates. - TeachNY Coaching and Free Reimbursement:
Many SUNY campuses provide coaching, mentorship, and financial assistance through the TeachNY initiative to help new and transitioning teachers navigate certification and job placement. - Incentives for NYC Teachers:
New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) offers additional resources, stipends, and student teaching assistance.
Step 4: Connect for Support
As the largest comprehensive public university system in the United States, SUNY is here to help. SUNY campuses across New York offer programs tailored to educators, including advanced certification programs and professional development workshops. Furthermore, TeachNY offers coaching assistance to help teachers navigate the process.
- One-on-One Coaching:
Many SUNY campuses provide personalized coaching for out-of-state teachers to help you navigate the certification process and identify job opportunities. - Job Placement Resources:
SUNY works closely with school districts statewide, providing a direct connection to teaching vacancies.
Step 5: Join the Community
Once you’ve secured certification, tap into New York’s extensive educational community. Join local teacher associations, such at the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), attend professional development workshops, and take advantage of networking events to build connections.
Your Next Steps
Becoming a teacher in New York State is more than a career move—it’s a chance to inspire students in one of the most dynamic states in the country. SUNY is ready to guide you every step of the way, when you request information about becoming a teacher in NY. Start by exploring TeachNY resources or contact a SUNY teacher graduate college near you for personalized support.
We hope to welcome you to New York State soon.
