Montana has introduced a new path for teacher certification. In need of teachers, the state will now allow alternative paths to teacher certification. Notably, American Board received the honor of being the first approved alternative route in the state. This means future teachers now have access to fast and affordable teacher certification using American Board in Montana.
How it Works
The steps to Montana teacher certification are simple. First, enroll in American Board’s program for Montana. Second, when the timing is best for you, study the provided online materials. You’ll be given ample materials including workbooks, content standards, and an online textbook which covers all final exam content. You can move through this study material in the timeframe that works best for you. Then, when you’re ready, you’ll take your final exams. This concludes the work you’ll do to earn your American Board certificate.
Then, you’ll complete any remaining state requirements. In Montana, this includes coursework related to Indian Education for All. Once done, you’ll be ready to apply to the Montana Office of Public Instruction for your class-2 certificate. It’s that simple!
American Board in Montana
“I have focused on including more flexibilities in our teacher licensing rules to benefit our children and our communities,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “This alternative pathway is another innovative solution to teacher recruitment challenges our districts face. Montana students rely on quality educators to achieve academic success.”
Prior to beginning in Montana, American Board worked closely with Superintendent Arntzen and the Montana State Board of Public Education to ensure that the certification program meets the needs of Montana’s students and future teachers. You can find American Board listed as a Montana-approved teacher certification program here.
Available Certifications
American Board is offering certification in the following endorsement areas:
- Elementary Education (K-8)
- Special Education (K-12)
- English Language Arts (5-12)
- Mathematics (5-12)
- Science Broadfield (5-12)
- Biology (5-12)
- Chemistry (5-12)
- Physics (5-12)
- History (5-12)
Notably, you can pursue certification in any area of your choosing; it does not need to match the area of your bachelor’s degree.
Who Uses American Board Certification
American Board certification is right for people in any of the following cohorts:
- Career Changers: Your real-world experience and subject matter expertise help students understand how classroom lessons impact life after schooling.
- Veterans: You’ve got a strong sense of discipline and commitment, something today’s students need to learn.
- Stay-at-Home Parents: You know what it takes to get children to focus and your classroom management skills will be ready on day one.
- Substitute Teachers and Parapros: You’ve got firsthand knowledge of what the students in your local school need to succeed.
- Recent College Graduates: Your drive and excitement to make a difference is exactly what’s needed to get students engaged in learning.
History
Senate Bill 373 from the 2023 legislative session created a space for alternative teacher certification in the Montana. Sponsored by Sen. Daniel Salomon, SB 373 focuses on providing alternative methods for teacher credentialing, aiming to address the pressing need for qualified educators in the state. The bill was signed by the Governor Gianforte on May 8, 2023.
This development aligns with the state’s broader strategy to diversify the pathways to teacher certification, reflecting an acknowledgment of the diverse skill sets and backgrounds potential educators can bring to Montana’s classrooms. By offering more flexible certification options, Montana seeks to attract a wider pool of candidates into teaching, addressing critical shortages and enhancing the educational experience for students.
For more details on the alternative teacher licensure program approved by the State School Board, you can read the full article on the Daily Montanan’s website: State School Board approves alternative teacher licensure program.
