Want to become a social studies teacher in Texas? You’ve landed at the right place.

The social studies teaching profession is both rewarding and fulfilling. Teachers in the Lone Star State earn $44k per year on average.

Before you embark on your career, there is a process that every aspirant must go through. In this article, we will tell you how to become a social studies teacher in Texas.

What do social sciences teachers in Texas teach?

Social science doesn’t refer to a single subject. Instead, it encompasses a wide range of subjects that are intertwined yet distinct.

Social science is the study of human society and social relationships. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including anthropology, economics, geography, history, political science, psychology, and sociology. As a social studies teacher, you’ll help educate the next generation on these important topics.

The teaching of social science in the US varies from state to state and even from school district to school district. However, there are some common themes that are emphasized across the country. These include:

• Critical thinking – Students are encouraged to think critically about social issues and to evaluate different perspectives.
• Historical understanding – Learning about the past and how it has shaped the present.
• Civic engagement – Students are taught about their rights and responsibilities as citizens and encouraged to participate in civic life.
• Global awareness – Learning about different cultures and societies around the world.

In the United States, social science is typically taught from elementary school through college. In elementary school, social studies courses often focus on history, geography, and civics.

As students progress through middle and high school, they may take more specialized courses in history, economics, government, and other social science disciplines. In college, they can major in social science fields and pursue careers in academia, government, business, and other sectors.

Steps to Becoming a Social Studies Teacher in Texas

Becoming a social sciences teacher in Texas isn’t overly different from requirements for other disciplines. The steps remain, more or less, the same.

The exact procedure is laid out by the Texas Education Agency or TEA, which regulates the teaching professionals in the state. Here’s the procedure you need to follow:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in social sciences

A Bachelor’s degree in a social science field is the first crucial step and the minimum requirement to becoming a teacher in the state.

Since you’re aiming for the social science profession, it’s best if you pursue your degree in the same discipline.

If you’re unsure, consider degrees like a BA Major in History from Texas State University or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with Secondary Teacher Certification offered by the University of North Texas. These programs fall under the social sciences disciplines and cover the topics in depth.

You can also consider a BA specializing in related fields like:

• History
• Geography
• Political Science
• Economics
• Sociology
• Anthropology

But irrespective of the discipline, ensure that your chosen program is accredited by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of quality and prepares graduates for careers in education.

2. Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

After earning your Bachelor’s degree, you’ll need to complete an EPP. This program is designed to provide you with the pedagogical knowledge and skills required to teach effectively. You can complete this program through a variety of options, including:

• Alternative Certification Programs: These programs are often shorter and more flexible than traditional teacher preparation programs. They are designed for individuals who already have a Bachelor’s degree in a non-education field and want to transition into teaching.
• Traditional Teacher Preparation Programs: These programs typically involve coursework, field experiences, and student teaching. They provide a comprehensive and rigorous preparation for teaching.

After completing the TPP, you’ll have the necessary skills to interact with students and help them learn more effectively.

3. Pass the required certification exam

To become certified, you must pass the required certification exam administered by the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES). The specific exam you’ll need to take will depend on the grade level and subject area you wish to teach. For example, to teach social studies in grades 4-8, you would need to pass the TExES Core Subjects EC-6 exam and the TExES Social Studies 4-8 exam.

There may be additional certification requirements depending on the job profile like:

•  TExES Social Studies 7-12: This exam is for those who want to teach high school social studies. It covers advanced topics in history, government, economics, geography, and sociology.
•  TExES Special Education EC-12: This certification allows you to teach students with disabilities.
•  TExES ESL/Bilingual Education: This certification qualifies you to teach English Language Learners.

Thus, inquire more about the specific requirements and complete the certifications.

4. Submit a state application

Once you’ve passed the certification exam, you’ll need to submit a state application to the Texas Education Agency (TEA). This application will require you to provide information about your education, experience, and criminal background check. The TEA will review your application to ensure that you meet all the requirements for certification.

Thus, head over to the TEA Login page, create an account (or sign in), and submit the application.

5. Complete fingerprinting

As part of the certification process, you’ll need to undergo fingerprinting. This is a standard requirement for all educators in Texas. Fingerprinting is used to conduct a criminal background check to ensure that you have no criminal history that would disqualify you from teaching.

You’d have to provide the fingerprints at the designated center and pay the fees. The result should come in a few days or a week’s time. If you pass, you’re all set!

That’s it. You’re in the pole position to land a social science teaching job in Texas. It’s not all about applying for jobs and cracking the interview process. But there are some additional measures you can take to accelerate this process.

Additional Tips for Aspiring Social Studies Teachers

• Gain classroom experience

Consider volunteering or working as a teaching assistant to gain valuable classroom experience. This will allow you to observe experienced teachers, learn effective teaching strategies, and build relationships with students.

•  Join professional organizations

Becoming a member of professional organizations like the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) can help you stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in social studies education. These organizations offer opportunities for professional development, networking, and advocacy.

• Develop strong communication skills

Effective communication is essential for engaging students and conveying complex ideas. You should be able to articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

• Stay informed about current events

Keeping up with current events will help you bring real-world relevance to your lessons. You can do this by reading newspapers, watching the news, and following current events on social media.

• Build relationships with students

A positive rapport with your students can significantly impact their learning experience. Take the time to get to know your students and create a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Become a Social Studies Teacher in Texas with TeacherBuilder.com

Start your teaching journey with TeacherBuilder.com! As an accredited EPP, our TEA-approved online certification program is designed to be fast, flexible, and affordable, making it easier than ever to achieve your dream of becoming a teacher. With expert guidance and a self-paced approach, your future in education is within reach. Contact us today to get started!

This article does not contain legal, educational, or government advice. As regulations can change from time to time, readers are advised to check with their local education departments to receive up-to-date information.