To teach in a Louisiana public school, teachers must be certified. Teachers are certified by completing an approved teacher preparation program – either an undergraduate program or a post-baccalaureate program and passing certain tests of teaching knowledge and skill.
New to Louisiana, but taught in another state?
If you currently hold a standard out-of-state teaching certificate, learn more about Louisiana's Out of State Application Process.Alternative Pathway 4 Boot Camp
- Individuals who hold either a graduate degree in business administration or public administration, or a JD, or those who have been Honorably Discharged Commissioned officers from any U.S. Military Branch, may use the Alternative Pathway 4 Boot Campto obtain their EDL Level 1 certification.
- All pathways to the EDL1 license require the successful completion of the Praxis (SLLA). Please visit the Praxis Website for more information about this assessment.
Career Pathways for Existing Educators
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Become a Louisiana Mentor Teacher or Louisiana Content Leader
- Apply to become a Louisiana Teacher or Principal of the Year
Become an Educational Leader
If you would like to become a school and/or school system leader, you can obtain an educational leadership certification through either a master’s degree program or through one of four alternate pathways. All pathways include a final assessment and certification application as outlined in the Leadership Preparation Routes Leading to Educational Leader Certification.For those certified who would like more guidance and support before obtaining a position in school leadership, we encourage them to learn more about our Aspiring Principal Fellowship Program.