How to Become an English Teacher in Idaho

If you've ever dreamed of shaping young minds through the power of literature, grammar, and storytelling, becoming an English teacher in Idaho offers a rewarding career path with strong job prospects and a supportive educational community.

Whether you're a recent college graduate, a career changer, or someone passionate about language arts education, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the Idaho English teacher certification process—from educational requirements and required exams to licensure pathways and career outlook.

Idaho's growing student population and ongoing teacher demand mean that qualified English educators are needed across the state, from Boise's bustling urban schools to rural communities in the mountains and plains.

Understanding the certification requirements, exam expectations, and preparation strategies will set you on the path to a successful teaching career in the Gem State.

Understanding Idaho's English Teacher Certification System

The Idaho State Department of Education oversees all teacher certification in the state through its Bureau of Educator Certification. Idaho operates on a tiered certification system designed to ensure that all teachers meet rigorous professional standards while providing multiple pathways to licensure.

Who Needs English Teacher Certification in Idaho?

You'll need Idaho teaching certification if you plan to:

• Teach English Language Arts in grades 6-12 (secondary education)

• Work in public schools, charter schools, or most private institutions

• Serve as a middle school or high school English teacher

• Teach literature, composition, creative writing, or communication courses

• Work with diverse learners in mainstream or advanced English classes

Idaho requires all public school teachers to hold valid state certification with appropriate endorsements for the subjects and grade levels they teach. The English endorsement (known as Standard Secondary Certificate with English/Language Arts endorsement) qualifies you to teach all English-related courses at the middle and high school levels.

Types of Teaching Certificates in Idaho

Idaho offers several certificate types:

Standard Instructional Certificate: The primary teaching license for educators who have completed an approved teacher preparation program. Valid for five years and renewable upon meeting continuing education requirements.

Interim Certificate: A temporary three-year certificate for candidates completing alternative authorization routes or those needing additional time to meet standard certification requirements.

Alternative Authorization Certificate: Designed for career changers and individuals without traditional education degrees who can demonstrate subject matter expertise.

Career Ladder Certificates: Idaho's career ladder system includes Residency (first year), Professional (years 2-3), and Advanced Professional levels, with corresponding salary increases as teachers demonstrate competency and professional growth.

For English teachers specifically, you'll pursue the Standard Secondary Certificate (grades 6-12) with an English/Language Arts endorsement.

Step-by-Step: How to Become an English Teacher in Idaho

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Your journey begins with obtaining a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While Idaho accepts various undergraduate majors, your degree path will significantly impact your certification route:

Traditional Route: Complete a bachelor's degree in English Education, Secondary Education with English emphasis, or a related education field from an Idaho State Board of Education-approved teacher preparation program. Idaho colleges offering approved programs include:

• Boise State University

• Idaho State University

• Lewis-Clark State College

• University of Idaho

• Northwest Nazarene University

• College of Idaho

These programs integrate pedagogical training, content knowledge, and practical classroom experience, positioning you to meet all certification requirements upon graduation.

Alternative Route: Earn a bachelor's degree in English, English Literature, Linguistics, Communications, or a substantially related field. You'll need at least 30 semester credit hours in English-related coursework, including composition, literature, language structure, and diverse texts. This route requires additional steps to demonstrate pedagogical competency through alternative authorization pathways.

Your undergraduate coursework should include:

• American literature

• British and world literature

• Composition and rhetoric

• Grammar and linguistics

• Adolescent literature

• Literary criticism and analysis

• Multicultural literature

• Writing pedagogy

• Language development

Maintain a strong GPA throughout your program, as many graduate programs and alternative certification routes require a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.

Step 2: Complete a Teacher Preparation Program

For Traditional Route Candidates:

If you're enrolled in an approved Idaho teacher preparation program, you'll complete integrated coursework covering:

Educational Foundations: Philosophy of education, educational psychology, human development, and learning theory specific to adolescent learners.

Methods and Curriculum: English teaching methods, curriculum design for language arts, literacy instruction, assessment strategies, differentiation techniques, and technology integration in English classrooms.

Specialized Content: Teaching writing across genres, facilitating literature discussions, supporting struggling readers, teaching grammar in context, and integrating speaking and listening standards.

Classroom Management: Behavior management strategies, creating inclusive learning environments, and building positive classroom culture.

Field Experience: Your program includes supervised field experiences in actual classrooms, culminating in student teaching. These experiences typically span 100+ hours of observation and participation, plus a full semester of student teaching where you assume increasing responsibility under a mentor teacher's supervision.

For Alternative Route Candidates:

Idaho offers alternative authorization pathways for individuals holding bachelor's degrees in English or related fields but lacking formal teacher preparation. Options include:

Content Specialist Alternative Authorization: Designed for subject matter experts transitioning to teaching. You'll need to:

• Hold a bachelor's degree with sufficient English coursework

• Pass required Praxis exams (see Step 3)

• Complete an approved alternative preparation program, which may include online coursework, summer intensives, or district-based training

• Secure a teaching position with a school district willing to mentor you

• Complete pedagogical training while teaching under an Interim Certificate

District Alternative Authorization: Some Idaho school districts operate board-approved alternative authorization programs, allowing you to complete pedagogical training while employed. These programs typically span 2-3 years and include:

• Mentorship from experienced English teachers

• Coursework in teaching methods, assessment, and classroom management

• Structured observations and evaluations

• Portfolio development demonstrating teaching competency

Alternative routes provide flexibility for career changers but require significant self-motivation and the ability to learn on the job while managing full classroom responsibilities.

Step 3: Pass Required Praxis Exams

Idaho requires all English teacher candidates to pass specific Praxis exams to demonstrate both general teaching competency and subject-specific expertise.

Required Praxis Exams for Idaho English Teachers

1. Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Praxis Core)

Before entering or during your teacher preparation program, you must pass the Praxis Core, which assesses basic skills in:

• Reading (5713): Reading comprehension, analysis, and evaluation. Pass score: 156

• Writing (5723): Grammar, usage, and essay writing. Pass score: 162

• Mathematics (5733): Number operations, algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Pass score: 150

Many candidates take these exams during their sophomore or junior year of college. Some Idaho teacher preparation programs may waive the Praxis Core if you meet minimum ACT/SAT scores or hold an advanced degree.

2. Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (5038)

This is the primary subject-area exam for English teacher certification in Idaho. The exam assesses your knowledge across:

Reading and Understanding Text (25% of exam)

• Literary elements and analysis

• Interpreting fiction and nonfiction

• Understanding author's purpose and rhetorical devices

• Textual evidence and inference

• Close reading strategies

Language Use and Vocabulary (20% of exam)

• Grammar, syntax, and mechanics

• Language development and acquisition

• Vocabulary in context

• Conventions of standard English

• Language variety and change

Writing, Speaking, and Listening (30% of exam)

• Writing process and development

• Rhetorical strategies and modes

• Research and information literacy

• Speaking and listening standards

• Collaborative discussion techniques

• Multimodal composition

Teaching and Learning (25% of exam)

• Curriculum design and planning

• Assessment and evaluation methods

• Differentiation strategies

• Instructional approaches for diverse learners

• Literacy development across content areas

• Professional knowledge and ethics

The Praxis English Language Arts exam consists of 130 selected-response questions (multiple choice). You'll have 150 minutes to complete the exam. Idaho requires a passing score of 167 (on a scale of 100-200).

Test Format: Computer-delivered at Praxis testing centers throughout Idaho and nationwide. You can schedule your exam through the ETS Praxis website once you create an account.

Exam Fee: $120 for the Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge exam (subject to change).

3. Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Grades 7-12 (5624)

Idaho also requires the Praxis PLT exam, which measures general pedagogical knowledge including:

• Students as learners (development, learning differences, motivation)

• The instructional process (planning, instructional strategies, questioning)

• Assessment (types, data interpretation, feedback)

• Professional development, leadership, and community

• Analysis of instructional scenarios through case studies

The PLT exam includes 70 selected-response questions plus 4 constructed-response questions where you analyze teaching scenarios. Testing time is 2 hours. Idaho's required passing score is 157.

Strategic Exam Preparation

Passing these exams requires focused preparation, particularly the content-heavy English Language Arts exam. Effective preparation strategies include:

Start Early: Begin studying at least 2-3 months before your exam date. Don't wait until the last minute.

Understand the Test Blueprint: Download the official test specifications from ETS to understand exactly what content is assessed and in what proportion.

Use Quality Practice Materials: Invest in official Praxis practice tests and reputable prep resources. Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to build stamina and identify weak areas.

Review Content Systematically: Create a study schedule covering all exam domains. For English content knowledge, review:

• Major authors, literary movements, and canonical texts

• Grammar rules, sentence structure, and punctuation

• Rhetorical terms and literary devices

• Composition theory and writing pedagogy

• Literacy development research

Focus on Pedagogical Content Knowledge: The English Language Arts exam isn't just about knowing content—it assesses your ability to teach that content effectively. Review best practices for:

• Scaffolding complex texts

• Teaching writing as a process

• Facilitating meaningful discussions

• Assessing student writing

• Supporting English learners and struggling readers

Practice Constructed Responses: For the PLT exam, practice analyzing teaching scenarios and writing clear, evidence-based responses that demonstrate pedagogical reasoning.

Join Study Groups: Connect with other teacher candidates preparing for the same exams. Collaborative study enhances understanding and provides moral support.

Utilize Free ETS Resources: ETS offers free practice questions, study companions, and test-taking tips on their website. These are your most reliable resources since they come directly from the test maker.

Step 4: Complete Student Teaching or Supervised Teaching Experience

Student teaching represents the culmination of your teacher preparation and your most significant hands-on learning experience before becoming the teacher of record.

Traditional Student Teaching: If you're in an approved preparation program, you'll complete a full semester (typically 12-16 weeks) of student teaching in an Idaho middle or high school English classroom. During this time, you'll:

• Gradually assume full teaching responsibilities under a cooperating teacher's mentorship

• Plan and deliver lessons aligned with Idaho Content Standards

• Assess student work and provide meaningful feedback

• Manage classroom behavior and routines

• Differentiate instruction for diverse learners

• Collaborate with other teachers and participate in school activities

• Complete teaching performance assessments (like edTPA in some programs)

• Demonstrate competency across all domains of effective teaching

Your student teaching performance is formally evaluated by your cooperating teacher and university supervisor. Successful completion is required for program completion and certification eligibility.

Alternative Route Supervised Experience: Candidates pursuing alternative authorization complete supervised teaching while employed under an Interim Certificate. Your district assigns a mentor teacher who observes your teaching, provides feedback, and helps you develop pedagogical skills. This mentorship continues for 1-3 years depending on your program requirements.

Step 5: Apply for Idaho Teaching Certification

Once you've completed your preparation program and passed required exams, you're ready to apply for your Idaho teaching certificate.

Application Process:

1. Create an Educator Certification Account: Register through the Idaho State Department of Education's online certification system.

2. Submit Official Transcripts: Request official transcripts from all colleges and universities you attended sent directly to the Idaho State Department of Education.

3. Request Institutional Recommendation: Your teacher preparation program must submit an institutional recommendation verifying you've completed all program requirements and demonstrated teaching competency.

4. Submit Praxis Score Reports: Ensure your official Praxis scores are sent to Idaho (institution code 4157).

5. Complete Background Check: Idaho requires fingerprint-based criminal background checks for all teachers. You'll receive instructions for completing this requirement upon application.

6. Pay Application Fee: The initial certification application fee is approximately $70 (subject to change).

7. Submit Application: Complete all sections of the online application, including employment history, education background, and certification requests.

Processing Time: Idaho typically processes complete applications within 4-6 weeks. Incomplete applications or missing documents will delay the process, so ensure all materials are submitted correctly.

Certificate Issued: Upon approval, you'll receive your Standard Instructional Certificate valid for five years with the English/Language Arts (grades 6-12) endorsement. Your certificate allows you to teach English in any Idaho public school.

Step 6: Meet Additional Requirements (If Applicable)

Depending on your specific situation, you may have additional requirements:

Out-of-State Teachers: If you hold teaching certification from another state, Idaho offers reciprocity through the Interstate Agreement (NASDTEC). You may be eligible for an Idaho certificate without retaking exams if your previous state had comparable requirements. Contact the Idaho Bureau of Educator Certification to determine your specific requirements.

Emergency Authorizations: In cases of critical teacher shortages, Idaho occasionally issues interim emergency certificates allowing individuals to teach while completing certification requirements. These are rare and district-specific.

Additional Endorsements: If you want to teach other subjects or grade levels, you can add endorsements by completing additional content exams or coursework. Common supplementary endorsements for English teachers include Drama/Theatre, Journalism, or Reading Specialist.

Idaho Teaching Standards and Professional Responsibilities

Understanding Idaho's teaching standards helps you align your preparation with state expectations. Idaho adopted professional teaching standards based on the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC) model, which defines what effective teachers should know and be able to do.

The Ten InTASC Standards

1. Learner Development: Understanding how students learn and developing practices supporting their intellectual, social, and personal development

2. Learning Differences: Using diverse instructional strategies to meet individual learner needs

3. Learning Environments: Creating supportive, safe, and engaging learning environments

4. Content Knowledge: Understanding central concepts and inquiry methods in English Language Arts

5. Application of Content: Connecting English concepts to real-world contexts and other disciplines

6. Assessment: Using multiple assessment methods to inform instruction and document learning

7. Planning for Instruction: Drawing upon content and pedagogical knowledge to design coherent instruction

8. Instructional Strategies: Using varied strategies encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving

9. Professional Learning and Ethical Practice: Engaging in continuous professional development

10. Leadership and Collaboration: Collaborating with students, families, colleagues, and community members

These standards guide your teacher preparation program, student teaching evaluations, and ongoing professional development throughout your career.

Idaho Content Standards for English Language Arts

As an English teacher in Idaho, you'll teach to the Idaho Content Standards for English Language Arts, which are based on the Common Core State Standards. These standards organize literacy expectations into:

Reading Standards:

• Reading Literature (analyzing fiction, poetry, drama)

• Reading Informational Text (nonfiction analysis and comprehension)

• Key Ideas and Details

• Craft and Structure

• Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

Writing Standards:

• Text Types and Purposes (argument, informative/explanatory, narrative)

• Production and Distribution of Writing

• Research to Build and Present Knowledge

Speaking and Listening Standards:

• Comprehension and Collaboration

• Presentation of Knowledge and Ideas

Language Standards:

• Conventions of Standard English

• Knowledge of Language

• Vocabulary Acquisition and Use

Familiarize yourself thoroughly with these standards during your preparation. Your lesson planning, instruction, and assessment should clearly connect to specific standards at your grade level.

Alternative Pathways to English Teaching in Idaho

Career and Technical Education English

Some English teaching opportunities exist within Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, particularly in communications, journalism, and business communications courses. CTE certification requirements differ from traditional teaching certificates and may be more accessible for professionals with industry experience but limited formal education credentials.

American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE)

Idaho accepts certification through ABCTE, a national alternative certification organization. ABCTE allows individuals with bachelor's degrees to become certified by passing subject exams and completing online professional teaching knowledge coursework. While not specific to Idaho, ABCTE certification can be used to obtain an Idaho teaching certificate. This pathway appeals to career changers seeking a more independent route to certification.

Teach for America

Teach for America occasionally places corps members in Idaho schools, particularly in high-need rural and urban areas. TFA corps members complete intensive summer training before teaching in underserved schools while working toward full state certification. This can be an entry point for individuals committed to educational equity who want immediate classroom experience while completing certification requirements.

Troops to Teachers

The Troops to Teachers program helps military personnel transition to teaching careers. Veterans often bring valuable skills in leadership, organization, and working with diverse populations. Idaho supports this program through streamlined certification processes for qualified military members interested in teaching.

Job Outlook and Career Advancement for Idaho English Teachers

Employment Opportunities

Idaho's education system is experiencing steady growth due to population increases, particularly in the Boise metro area and surrounding communities. English teachers are consistently in demand, especially in:

• Rural schools with chronic teacher shortages

• Schools serving high populations of English learners

• Urban districts experiencing enrollment growth

• Charter schools with innovative curriculum models

According to the Idaho State Department of Education, English Language Arts positions regularly appear on shortage area lists, meaning qualified candidates typically have multiple job opportunities.

Salary Expectations

English teacher salaries in Idaho vary by district, experience, and education level. According to recent data:

Starting Salaries: First-year teachers with bachelor's degrees typically earn between $42,000-$48,000 annually, depending on the district.

Career Ladder Increases: Idaho's career ladder system provides structured salary increases as teachers progress from Residency to Professional to Advanced Professional designations. These increases can add $3,000-$10,000 to base salaries.

Experience-Based Growth: Teacher salaries increase with years of experience. Teachers with 10+ years of experience and advanced degrees can earn $55,000-$75,000+ annually.

Higher Salaries in Certain Districts: Larger districts like West Ada School District (Boise area) and Boise School District typically offer higher salaries than smaller rural districts, though cost of living is correspondingly higher.

Master's Degree Stipends: Many districts offer salary increases (typically $2,000-$5,000 annually) for teachers holding master's degrees.

FAQs

How long does it take to become an English teacher in Idaho?

Typically, it takes about four years to earn a bachelor’s degree and complete a teacher preparation program. Additional time may be required for student teaching and certification processes.

What exams are required to become an English teacher in Idaho?

Candidates must pass the Praxis English exam as part of their certification requirements.

Can you become an English teacher in Idaho without a teaching degree?

Yes, alternative certification programs are available for individuals who hold a degree in a different field but wish to become teachers.

Do you need a master’s degree to teach English in Idaho?

A master’s degree is not required to teach English, but it may enhance your job prospects and earning potential.

How much do English teachers make in Idaho?

The average salary for English teachers in Idaho varies based on experience and location, but it generally ranges from $40,000 to $75,000 annually.