Licensure
Every Iowa teacher must be licensed to teach. The license requirements are set by a Board of Educational Examiners whose members are appointed by the Governor of the State of Iowa.
The basic requirements for the issuance of an initial teacher license include a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution, the completion of an approved teacher education program from an accredited college or university, completion of an approved human relations program, and completion of requirements for teaching endorsement. The Initial License is valid for two years from the date of issuance. It may be renewed under prescribed conditions for one additional two-year term.
The Standard License requirements include the same requirements as the Initial License plus evidence of two years successful teaching experience based on local evaluation process. The Standard License is valid for five years and renewable under prescribed conditions.
This license is valid for five years and is renewable under prescribed conditions. In order to apply for a Substitute License, applicants must have successfully completed all requirements for an approved teacher education program and be eligible for the initial license, or hold or have held a valid, regular license in Iowa or some other state.
Iowa law states that an applicant for teacher licensure may be disqualified for any of the following reasons:
- The applicant has been convicted of child abuse or sexual abuse of a child.
- The applicant has been convicted of a felony.
- The applicant’s application is fraudulent.
- The applicant’s license or certification from another state is suspended or revoked.
Students graduating from approved teacher education programs at Cornell College meet the full requirements for teacher licensure only in the state of Iowa. It is easier to get a license in another state if you have already obtained an Iowa teaching license. For more information, contact your applicable state's Board of Education.