The Education Service Center of Central Ohio (ESC) is your go-to resource for becoming a teacher. Serving 30 school districts in the fast-growing Central Ohio region, ESC guides aspiring educators through the four common paths to a teaching career. Our experts are here to answer your questions and help you get started on your journey to becoming a highly motivated and well-prepared teacher.

A career in teaching can also lead to other exciting opportunities within school districts, such as becoming a school counselor, instructional coach, department chair, building administrator, or district leader. There are numerous pathways to roles that challenge you to grow while supporting the growth of others.

To become a teacher in Ohio, you must have a bachelor’s degree, complete an approved teacher preparation program, and pass the required state exams. You must also undergo a criminal background check.

Ohio has many colleges and universities that offer education degree programs. Some well-known institutions include Ohio State University, University of Cincinnati, Bowling Green State University and Kent State University.

Yes, there are scholarships available for education students in Ohio. The Ohio Department of Higher Education offers several scholarships and grants for aspiring teachers. Additionally, many colleges and universities offer scholarships specifically for education majors.

Financial assistance for college course work leading to a teaching license can come from sources other than student loans. Ohio offers a Grow Your Own Scholarship for qualifying individuals who enroll in a teacher education program.

In addition, the Federal TEACH grant is also a potential source of financial assistance.

To obtain a teaching certificate in Ohio, you must have a bachelor’s degree, complete an approved teacher preparation program, pass the required state exams, and undergo a criminal background check. There are different types of certificates depending on the subject and grade level you wish to teach.

If you hold a valid teaching certificate from another state, you may be eligible for a comparable certificate in Ohio. You will need to submit an application and provide documentation of your out-of-state certification and experience.

The time it takes to become a teacher in Ohio can vary depending on your education and career goals. Typically, it takes four years to earn a bachelor’s degree, and an additional one to two years to complete a teacher preparation program and obtain certification.

Teacher salaries in Ohio vary depending on factors such as education level, experience, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for elementary school teachers in Ohio was $63,930 in May 2020.

Ohio teachers participate in the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) of Ohio, which is a defined benefit retirement plan. Districts contribute, as well as teachers who contribute a percentage of their salary to the plan, and upon retirement, they receive a monthly benefit based on their years of service and final average salary.

Working professionals can pivot into teaching by completing a teacher preparation program and obtaining a teaching certificate. Many programs offer flexible schedules, online courses, and options for earning a teaching certificate while working.

People without college degrees or professional educator experience can still pursue teaching opportunities in Ohio. Some options include becoming a substitute teacher, a teacher assistant, or an instructor in vocational or adult education programs. However, most full-time teaching positions require a bachelor’s degree and teacher certification.

Pivoting into a career in education after working in a different field can be challenging but is certainly possible. You may need to complete a teacher preparation program, pass state exams, and fulfill any other requirements for teacher certification. Relevant experience from your previous career can be valuable in the classroom and may help you stand out as a candidate.