How to Become an English Teacher in West Virginia

If you’re exploring how to become an English teacher in West Virginia, you’re likely balancing big career goals with real-world concerns—exam pressure, certification rules, and tight timelines. The good news? West Virginia offers clear, achievable pathways into English teaching, whether you’re a recent graduate, a career changer, or an out-of-state educator.

We at Prepsaret are here to break it down for you: the West Virginia English teacher requirements, Praxis exams, licensure steps, and practical preparation strategies so you can move forward with confidence. By the end, you’ll understand exactly what’s required—and how to prepare effectively to pass on your first attempt.

Becoming an English Teacher in West Virginia

West Virginia requires all public school teachers to hold a valid teaching license issued by the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE). The state maintains rigorous standards to ensure educators are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of students across its 55 counties. Most candidates follow these core steps:

Earn a bachelor’s degree
Complete a state-approved educator preparation program
Pass the required Praxis exams
Complete student teaching or approved clinical experience
Complete Background Checks and Fingerprinting
Apply for a West Virginia English teaching license

Your exact path may vary depending on whether you pursue traditional certification, alternative teacher certification in West Virginia, or licensure reciprocity.

Who Needs English Teacher Certification?

You’ll need proper certification if you plan to teach English Language Arts in West Virginia public schools at any grade level. This includes:

Middle school English teachers (grades 5-9)
High school English teachers (grades 9-12)
Combined multi-grade English teachers (grades 5-12 or 5-Adult)

Private schools may have different requirements, though many prefer or require state certification even when not legally mandated.

Steps to Become a Teacher in West Virginia

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor’s degree is the foundation for West Virginia teaching credentials. While it doesn’t have to be in education, degrees in English, literature, or a related field are ideal for aspiring English teachers. Programs like the Bachelor of Arts in English/Secondary Education at institutions such as West Virginia University combine content knowledge with pedagogy.

If you already have a non-education degree, you can pursue post-baccalaureate options. Ensure your program is from a regionally accredited institution, and aim for a minimum GPA of 2.5 (or 3.0 for master’s-level entry).

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

West Virginia requires completion of an educator preparation program approved by the WVDE. These programs include coursework in teaching methods, classroom management, and subject-specific strategies for English instruction.

Traditional Route: Enroll in a bachelor’s or master’s program that integrates student teaching.
West Virginia Educator Preparation Programs: Options include universities like Marshall University or Wheeling University, which offer specialized tracks for English education. Student Teaching in West Virginia: You’ll need at least 12 weeks of supervised classroom experience, often in a public school setting.

For those with a degree, post-baccalaureate certificates provide the necessary training without starting over.

Step 3: Pass the Required Praxis Exams

Praxis exams, administered by ETS, verify your content knowledge and teaching skills. For English teachers, the specific tests depend on your desired grade level.

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: Tests basic skills in reading, writing, and math. Passing scores: Reading (156), Writing (162), Math (150). Exemptions apply if you have high ACT/SAT scores (e.g., ACT 26+ or SAT 1170+) or a master’s degree.
Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Focuses on pedagogy. For grades 5-9: PLT (5623) with a score of 160. For grades 7-12/5-Adult: PLT (5624) with a score of 157.

Content-Specific Tests:

English (5-Adult): Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (5038), passing score 167.
English (5-9): Praxis Middle School English Language Arts (5047), passing score 164.

These exams are crucial for West Virginia Praxis requirements for English teachers. Register through the ETS website and prepare using official study materials.

For detailed breakdowns of Praxis exams, check out our guides on prepsaret.com/praxis-english-language-arts-content-knowledge and prepsaret.com/praxis-middle-school-english-language-arts.

Step 4. Complete Student Teaching or Approved Clinical Experience

Student teaching provides hands-on classroom experience under the supervision of a licensed educator.

During this phase, you will:

Plan and deliver English lessons
Manage real classroom environments
Assess student learning
Receive evaluations from mentors and supervisors

Alternative certification candidates may complete a paid teaching internship or approved clinical experience instead of traditional student teaching.

This step ensures you are classroom-ready before full licensure.

Step 5. Complete Background Checks and Fingerprinting

Before receiving a teaching license, all candidates must pass criminal background checks and fingerprinting.

This process includes:

FBI fingerprint-based criminal background check
West Virginia State Police background check
Child abuse and neglect registry check

These checks protect student safety and are required for all public school educators in West Virginia.

Step 6: Apply for Your Teaching License

Once you’ve met education and exam requirements, submit your application through the West Virginia Department of Education’s online ZAPS (Zoom Applicant Preparation System) portal:

Create an account on the WVDE certification website
Complete the online application for the Professional Teaching Certificate
Upload official transcripts from all colleges attended
Submit verification of your approved teacher preparation program completion
Provide passing Praxis exam scores (automatically sent from ETS if you designated West Virginia)
Complete required background checks
Pay the application fee ($50 – $100)

You’ll need to submit:

Official transcripts
Praxis exam scores
Proof of program completion
Background check clearance
Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible status.

The initial professional certificate is valid for three years, and processing takes 4-6 weeks. If employed, get a recommendation from your county superintendent.

What Praxis Exams Are Required for English Teachers in West Virginia?

Praxis exams are a key part of West Virginia teacher certification. They assess both general teaching readiness and subject-specific knowledge.

Common Praxis Requirements

Most English teacher candidates are required to take:

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators
(Reading, Writing, and Mathematics)
Some candidates may qualify for exemptions based on SAT/ACT/GRE scores.
Praxis Subject Assessment: English Language Arts
This exam evaluates your readiness to teach English at the secondary level.

Tip: Always confirm current testing requirements with the WVDE, as policies can evolve.

Praxis English Language Arts Exam Format & Structure

Understanding the exam structure helps reduce anxiety and improve time management.

Exam Format

Computer-delivered test
Selected-response (multiple-choice) questions
Constructed-response (written analysis) questions
Single-session testing window

Question Types You’ll See

Literary analysis
Rhetorical analysis
Grammar and usage evaluation
Writing pedagogy and instructional strategy scenarios

Time limits and question counts vary slightly by exam version, but pacing is critical—especially for written responses.

Praxis 5038 (English Language Arts: Content Knowledge)

Format: Computer-delivered, combining selected-response (multiple-choice) and constructed-response questions.
Number of Questions: 130 selected-response and 2 constructed-response.
Time Limit: 150 minutes (2.5 hours).
Question Types: Selected-response covers factual recall, analysis, and application. Constructed-response requires short essays on teaching scenarios or literary analysis.

The exam emphasizes real-world application, such as interpreting texts or designing lessons.

For the Middle School exam (5047)

110 selected-response questions and 2 constructed-response.
150 minutes.

Similar focus but geared toward younger learners.

Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT)

You’ll also need to pass the appropriate PLT exam for your certification grade band:

PLT 5-9 (Test 5623) for middle grades authorization
PLT 7-12 (Test 5624) for secondary authorization

These exams assess your understanding of educational psychology, instructional strategies, assessment, professional responsibilities, and analysis of teaching scenarios.

The passing score for both PLT exams in West Virginia is 157 out of 200.

Practice with sample questions on prepsaret.com/praxis-practice-tests to familiarize yourself with the format.

Content Categories and Subject Areas

The Praxis 5038 is divided into key areas to ensure comprehensive knowledge:

Reading (38%): Analyzing literature, informational texts, and rhetoric. Expect questions on genres, themes, and close reading techniques.
Language Use and Vocabulary (19%): Grammar, syntax, vocabulary development, and language conventions.
Writing, Speaking, and Listening (25%): Composing arguments, research skills, oral communication, and media literacy. Includes constructed-response tasks.
English Language Arts Instruction (18%): Pedagogical strategies, assessment, and adapting to diverse learners.

For 5047, categories include:

Reading and Literature (45%)
Language and Linguistics (15%)
Composition and Rhetoric (20%)
Short Essays (20%).

These align with West Virginia teaching endorsement in English, emphasizing standards-based instruction.

Scoring and Passing Requirements

Praxis scores are scaled from 100 to 200. West Virginia’s passing scores are set by the WVDE:

5038: 167
5047: 164
PLT variations: 157-160

Scores are available 10-16 days after testing. If you don’t pass, you can retake after 28 days. Aim for a balanced preparation to exceed the minimum—many successful candidates score 10-20 points above.

Study and Preparation Tips for Praxis English Exams

Preparation is key to passing your Praxis exams the first time. Here are practical strategies that work:

Analyze the test framework. ETS provides detailed outlines for what’s covered on the exam—use these to guide your study.
Practice with realistic questions. Simulate testing conditions using Prepsaret’s Praxis practice tests to build familiarity and confidence.
Focus on content knowledge and application. Review English grammar, literary analysis, and writing conventions as well as strategies for interpreting texts.
Use official Praxis study guides. Combine them with classroom materials and online study tools.
Schedule consistent study sessions. Even 30–60 minutes of daily prep can lead to steady progress.
Join a study group. Sharing insights and explanations can help reinforce learning and reduce exam anxiety.

Test-Day Strategies to Reduce Anxiety

Even well-prepared candidates can struggle without a plan on test day.

Before the Exam

Confirm your testing center and arrival time
Bring valid identification
Get rest—cramming the night before rarely helps

During the Exam

Read questions carefully (especially multi-part prompts)
Flag difficult questions and return later
Budget extra time for constructed responses

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overthinking straightforward questions
Spending too long on one passage
Leaving written responses incomplete

Alternative Pathways to Teach English in West Virginia

If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree in English education, you may still qualify through:

Alternative Teacher Certification in West Virginia

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field but didn’t complete a traditional teacher preparation program, West Virginia offers alternative routes to certification.

The Alternative Route to Certification allows individuals with strong content knowledge to become teachers through:

Hold a bachelor’s degree with sufficient coursework in English
Pass required Praxis content exams
Secure employment with a West Virginia school district
Complete an approved alternative certification program while teaching under a temporary authorization
Fulfill mentoring and professional development requirements
Pass the appropriate PLT exam

This pathway typically takes 1-2 years while working as a teacher of record.

Transition to Teaching Programs

Some West Virginia institutions offer intensive “Transition to Teaching” programs for career changers. These accelerated programs provide the pedagogical training and field experiences needed for certification in a compressed timeframe—often one year of full-time study.

Substitute Teaching While Pursuing Certification

Many aspiring teachers work as substitute teachers while completing degree requirements or preparing for exams. Substitute teaching offers valuable classroom experience, professional networking opportunities, and income while building toward full certification.

West Virginia allows substitute teaching with:

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
Passing West Virginia and FBI background checks
Substitute teaching permit issued by the county board of education

Requirements vary slightly by county, so contact local school districts for specific application procedures.

Teaching License Reciprocity in West Virginia

West Virginia offers reciprocity for out-of-state teachers through NASDTEC agreements, covering most states (excluding a few like California). To qualify:

Hold a valid, renewable professional certificate from another state.
Submit Form 20R, transcripts, and exam scores.
Meet GPA and background requirements.

The resulting WV certificate is valid for three years, with possible additional coursework if endorsements don’t align. This facilitates moves for experienced educators. This pathway is especially helpful for educators seeking English teaching jobs in West Virginia without starting over.

English Teacher Salary & Job Outlook in West Virginia

English teachers in West Virginia face a strong job outlook due to shortages, with potential for higher pay through experience and advanced degrees. Teaching English in West Virginia provides stable employment and growth opportunities. According to recent state data, the average English teacher salary in West Virginia ranges from $45,000 to $60,000, depending on location, years of experience, and education level.

English teacher salaries in West Virginia follow the state’s uniform pay scale based on education level and years of experience:

Starting Salary (Bachelor’s Degree): Approximately $39,000-$42,000
Starting Salary (Master’s Degree): Approximately $42,000-$46,000
Experienced Teacher (10+ years, Master’s Degree): $50,000-$60,000
Maximum Salary: Can exceed $70,000 for teachers with advanced degrees and decades of experience

Actual salaries vary slightly by county based on local supplements and collective bargaining agreements. Counties with higher costs of living or recruitment challenges sometimes offer additional stipends or benefits.

High school English teachers in particular often enjoy opportunities for curriculum leadership roles, extracurricular advising, and graduate coursework incentives through professional development programs.

Renewing Your Teaching License in West Virginia

Initial teaching licenses in West Virginia are usually valid for three to five years. Renewal requires completion of continuing education credits and verification of successful teaching performance. The WVDE outlines specific professional development requirements for renewal and advancement to higher-level credentials.

Additional advantages:

High demand in rural and underserved districts
Loan forgiveness and incentive programs (district-specific)
Opportunities for advancement with a master’s degree

FAQs: Becoming an English Teacher in West Virginia

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

Typically, 4–5 years through a traditional bachelor’s program. Alternative routes may take less time.

What exams are required to become an English teacher in West Virginia?

Most candidates must pass Praxis Core (or qualify for an exemption) and the Praxis English Language Arts subject exam.

Can you become an English teacher in West Virginia without a degree in education?

Yes. Alternative teacher certification programs allow candidates with non-education degrees to qualify.

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

No. A bachelor’s degree is sufficient for initial licensure, though a master’s may increase pay and advancement opportunities.

How much do English teachers make in West Virginia?

Salaries vary by district, experience, and education level, with steady growth over time.

Conclusion: Your Path to Teaching English in West Virginia

Learning how to become an English teacher in West Virginia may feel overwhelming at first—but with the right preparation and a clear plan, it’s absolutely achievable. Focus on mastering the Praxis exams, understanding licensure requirements, and building strong classroom skills.

With consistent study, practical strategies, and the right support, you can pass your exams on the first attempt and step confidently into a rewarding English teaching career.

The path to your own classroom begins with a single step. West Virginia students need passionate, well-prepared English teachers ready to inspire the next generation of readers, writers, and thinkers. Your journey starts now.

How to Become an English Teacher in West Virginia