Have real-life work experience? A CTE teaching career could be your next big step.
Now more than ever, school districts are working hard to find high-quality teachers. If you have work experience in a trade, career, or technical field, you may be able to start your teaching career sooner than you think. You may not need a degree!
Have experience in the subject area you want to teach? CTE certification lets you quickly apply your knowledge and expertise in the classroom.
When you apply you must:
For some (but not all!) CTE fields, you’ll need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Check the requirements for your field to find out what you’ll need.
Register for an account using the Educator Portal. You will submit your application, forms, and documents online using your account. Submit your SCDE Certification Application online.
You’ll need to submit a few forms, including:
If you have a college or university degree, please have your school send your official transcripts in one of the following ways:
Electronically: Have your school submit them to transcripts@ed.sc.gov.
By mail: Have your school send the original, sealed transcripts to the following address:
South Carolina Department of Education
849 Learning Lane
West Columbia, SC 29172
If you don’t have a college or university degree, submit a copy of your high school diploma or GED to your Educator Portal.
Once you complete your application through your Educator Portal, fingerprinting information will be available. You will need to get your fingerprints taken by an agency who is approved to take fingerprints for application to South Carolina educator certification. If you have done fingerprints or background checks for schools, employers or other agencies, they will not be accepted. You have to get new fingerprints done.
Use your Educator Portal to submit your application fee after you confirm you are eligible for the CTE program.
Give your letter of eligibility to potential employers during your interview or when you’re preparing to sign a contract.
Once you are hired, your South Carolina public school district must submit a Confirmation of Employment Form to the Office of Educator Services. Once your Confirmation of Employment Form is completed, your Induction certificate will be issued!
Wayne Williams
2023 SC Teacher of the Year Finalist
Leading students is truly my calling. After twenty years of working as a successful engineer in industry, I longed for something more rewarding and found it as a teacher. I love my students and the relationships I have with each one. I love seeing students get excited and passionate about solving real-world problems. I love to see what my students are capable of when challenged beyond their comfort zone.
Need more support before you take your next step? A TeachSC coach can help! Visit our coaching page to set up a free conversation (over email, video or phone, whatever works best for you!) with an experienced South Carolina educator who can give you custom advice. Not sure if a 1-on-1 call is right for you? Group advising sessions are also a great way to learn about becoming a teacher.
