Is it true you can teach in a private school without licensure?

Question

I've heard that as long as your degree is in the area you plan to teach in (especially if it is an "elective" type class, such as theatre/drama), private schools will hire you to teach there without licensure. Is this true?

Answer 1

This is true in most cases. The states can't require them to use licensed teachers but they sometimes choose to on their own.
Many private schools try try to get licensed teachers for elementary school and some of the core subjects in secondary but most are open to non-licensed teachers in special areas choosing to go for the subject area expertise.

Answer 2

In Texas you can teach for 2 years without a teaching certificate in any school as long as you have a bachelors degree in the subject you teach. During this 2 years you must be enrolled to obtain your teaching certificate. If you have not obtained this certification within that 2 years, you are not allowed back in any school until you have it. However, private schools do require these same rules here. If they are not "licensed" they have 2 years to get their license.

Different states are different. But we so desperately need teachers in Texas they started this program in hopes of getting more people who actually want to teach.

Answer 3

Here in Southern California, I know of several private schools that don't require credentials. As a matter of fact, a girl I know who couldn't pass the CBEST (California Basic Skills Examination) for teachers now teaches in a private school, they hired her without it or a credential! SCARY!!! i shutter.

Answer 4

In most states, private schools are allowed to create their own requirements for teachers. Some schools require teacher certification, some do not.

Answer 5

Not always. Private school teachers do not have to be certified to teach, but most of them will recommend and/or insist upon it.

Answer 6

Yes they are private institutions and are not beholden to state education laws.