Free Resource

Use this to track your progress.
📌 Set Your Teaching Goals

• Decide grade level: EC–6 / 4–8 / 7–12 / EC–12
• Choose subject(s) or area(s): Core, SPED, ESL, etc.
• Research certification requirements for your path

🎓 Meet Education Requirements

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Enroll in a Texas-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP or ACP)

📚 Complete Training and Coursework

• Finish required pedagogy and content coursework
• Log 30+ hours of field-based observation
• Complete clinical teaching or internship

🧠 Pass Required Exams

• TExES Content Exam(s)
• TExES Pedagogy & Professional Responsibilities (PPR)
• Science of Teaching Reading (STR) — if applying for EC–6 or 4–8
• Optional: Use study guides or prep programs

📝 Apply for Certification

• Create TEA account via ECOS
• Apply for Initial Certificate
• Submit transcripts and test scores
• Fingerprinting and background check via IdentoGO

💼 Launch Your Career

• Create teaching resume & cover letter
• Build teaching portfolio (philosophy, sample lesson plan, etc.)
• Apply to Texas districts via Teacher Job Network or local ESCs
• Prepare for interviews

🌟 Maintain and Grow Your Career

• Receive Standard Certificate (valid 5 years)
• Earn 150 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) hours every cycle
• Join professional development and mentorship programs