Are you interested in teaching in a city with rich cultural heritage, tight-knit communities, and a strong commitment to progress? Choosing a teaching career in Baltimore means joining a community deeply committed to fostering growth, equity, and opportunity for all its students. Baltimore’s schools reflect the city’s diversity and vibrancy, and the work of teachers here holds the potential to create lasting change. Whether you’re new to education or transitioning from another field, understanding Baltimore’s unique educational landscape and requirements is key to getting started.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you launch your teaching career in this historic and vibrant city:

WHAT’S THE EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE LIKE IN BALTIMORE?

Baltimore is a dynamic city, and its school system reflects its blend of tradition and progress. Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS) serves over 80,000 students, making it one of the largest districts in Maryland. In addition to BCPS, numerous charter and private schools provide aspiring teachers with a variety of teaching environments.

Baltimore’s student population is highly diverse, with many students from bilingual households or low-income backgrounds. This diversity allows teachers to make a meaningful impact, especially for students who face additional challenges. Whether you’re passionate about working with English Language Learners (ELLs), supporting students from underserved communities, or exploring innovative teaching methods, Baltimore offers a wide range of opportunities for educators eager to make a difference.

DO YOU NEED SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS OR QUALIFICATIONS TO TEACH IN BALTIMORE?

In Maryland, there are specific requirements for teacher certification. Here’s a breakdown of the main steps needed to become a certified teacher in Baltimore:

• Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: You’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Complete a Teacher Preparation Program: Maryland requires completion of an approved teacher preparation program. This can be done through a university-based program or an alternative certification program, such as the City Teaching Alliance teaching pathway for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
• Pass Maryland’s Required Exams: Once you complete your coursework, you’ll need to pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators and Praxis Subject Assessments that align with the subject and grade level you wish to teach.
• Apply for a Teaching License: After passing the exams, apply for a teaching license through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).
• Additional Certifications: Some schools may require additional certifications, such as for special education or bilingual education. Every City Teaching Alliance educator in Baltimore earns double certification in their content area and Special Education, so you’ll go through this process with the support of your coaches and fellow cohort members.

WHAT ABOUT OTHER TEACHING PROGRAMS?

Baltimore offers several pathways for individuals interested in making a difference in the city’s schools. Alongside traditional university routes, alternative certification programs provide aspiring teachers with supportive entry points into the field.

When choosing a pathway, look for a program that aligns with your values and goals. In Baltimore, programs that understand the unique challenges and strengths of the city’s schools can empower you to succeed and make a lasting impact.

WHY APPLY TO CITY TEACHING ALLIANCE?

If you’re looking for a teacher certification program that offers more than just a pathway to certification, consider applying to City Teaching Alliance. Our pathway is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a meaningful and long-term impact in urban schools. Here’s why City Teaching Alliance stands out:

1. Community: Our approach is rooted in the idea that our collective strength comes from the connections we build and sustain. By prioritizing community, we ensure that our work is responsive to the real needs and voices of those we serve.
2. Coursework: Our curriculum is designed to be challenging and relevant, integrating principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ). We prepare our educators with the knowledge and skills needed to make a significant impact, starting with a  Master’s in Teaching from American University. Our coursework is responsive to the evolving needs of education, equipping our trainees to meet the demands of today’s educational landscape.
3. Clinical Placement: We provide our trainees with hands-on, immersive experiences in diverse educational settings. These clinical placements allow our future educators to apply their knowledge in real-world environments, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the complexities and challenges of modern education.
4. Certification: Our certification process upholds the highest standards, ensuring that every graduate is equipped to lead with integrity and competence. We are committed to educational equity, and our certification process reflects this commitment, preparing our graduates to champion fairness and excellence in their professional roles.
5. Coaching: Our instructional coaching model is centered on justice-oriented, culturally sustaining, and transformative teaching practices. We offer ongoing, personalized support to teachers, providing tailored advice and resources that foster professional and personal growth. Our coaching helps individuals develop their unique strengths and navigate their career paths confidently and clearly.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR TEACHING JOURNEY

Teaching in Baltimore offers an incredible opportunity to be part of a community that is passionate about change and progress. With a diverse student population and a strong sense of local pride, Baltimore’s schools provide a unique environment where educators can make a lasting impact.

By completing certification requirements and taking advantage of programs like City Teaching Alliance, you’ll be equipped with the tools, training, and support to thrive in the classroom. Whether you’re working with students in historic neighborhoods or helping to foster academic growth in underserved areas, your role as a teacher in Baltimore will contribute to the city’s continued transformation and success.

UNLOCK YOUR FUTURE AS A TEACHER IN BALTIMORE

If you’re excited to make a difference in Baltimore’s classrooms, take the next step by applying to City Teaching Alliance before our upcoming deadline. As a participant, you’ll gain top priority for placements in the Baltimore region and become part of a community dedicated to transforming education and empowering students.

CONNECT WITH A RECRUITER TODAY TO LEARN MORE! about how City Teaching Alliance can support you on your path to a meaningful teaching career in Baltimore!