Dreaming of standing in front of a classroom full of Vermont high school students, helping them finally “get” algebra or see the beauty in calculus? You’re in the right place. Becoming a math teacher in Vermont is straightforward, rewarding, and in high demand especially with ongoing teacher shortages in STEM subjects across the state.
This guide walks you through every single requirement, deadline, and smart shortcut so you can go from “I want to teach math” to “Welcome to class!” as quickly and painlessly as possible. Let’s get started.https://takemypraxisexam.com/
Step 1: Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree (or Use the One You Already Have)
Vermont welcomes career-changers, so you do not need an education degree to start. You need:
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A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college (any major is fine)
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At least 30 credit hours in mathematics if you want to teach grades 7–12 (fewer credits are needed for middle school endorsement only)
Already have a math, engineering, finance, or even physics degree? You’re almost there.
Step 2: Choose Your Certification Pathway
Vermont offers several flexible routes. Pick the one that fits your life.
Traditional Route – Undergraduate or Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Preparation Program Complete an approved educator preparation program that includes student teaching. UVM, Castleton, Northern Vermont University, and Saint Michael’s all have strong programs.
Peer Review Alternative Route (Fastest for Career Changers) Already have a bachelor’s degree? This is your golden ticket. You find a teaching job first, then complete coursework and mentoring while employed. Many rural Vermont districts love hiring unlicensed math teachers conditionally and supporting them through Peer Review.
Transcript Review Route If you have substantial math coursework and teaching-related experience (tutoring, Outward Bound, Peace Corps, private schools, etc.), the Vermont Agency of Education can evaluate your transcripts and waive certain requirements.
Apprenticeship or Residency Programs New in 2025: Several districts now partner with programs that pay you a salary while you earn your license.https://takemypraxisexam.com/
Step 3: Pass the Required Praxis Exams
Here’s where most future Vermont math teachers take a deep breath. You need to pass two Praxis tests:
Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (5713, 5723, 5733) Reading, Writing, and Mathematics. Most college graduates pass these easily. You can waive the Core if you have a high enough SAT, ACT, or GRE score from the last 10 years.
Praxis Mathematics Content Knowledge (5165) for grades 7–12 This is the big one. You need a score of 159 or higher (Vermont’s cut score is friendly compared to many states). The test covers calculus, geometry, statistics, discrete math, and high school level content.
Pro tip: Thousands of Vermont-bound teachers quietly hire professional test-preparation services to guarantee they pass the Praxis Math 5165 on the first try especially busy parents and career changers who can’t afford multiple $130 test fees or delayed start dates.
Step 4: Complete Vermont’s Approved Coursework Requirements
Even in alternative routes, you’ll need:
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A 3-credit course in Vermont’s educator standards (often online)
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Child & adolescent development or special education basics
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A course on teaching diverse learners
Most of these are offered evenings or fully online.
Step 5: Background Checks and Fingerprinting
All Vermont teachers must pass state and FBI fingerprint background checks. Start this as soon as you decide to teach—processing can take 8–12 weeks.
Step 6: Apply for Your Initial License
Submit everything through the Vermont Agency of Education’s online portal (ALiS):
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Official transcripts
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Passing Praxis score reports
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Proof of completed coursework or program
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Background check clearance
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$225 application fee
Initial licenses are valid for three years and are renewable with mentoring and professional learning.
Step 7: Land Your Dream Job
Math teachers are in critical shortage in Vermont. Districts such as Burlington, Essex Westford, Mount Mansfield, Harwood Union, and many supervisory unions in the Northeast Kingdom routinely post openings in January–April for the following school year. Attend the Vermont Education Job Fair (usually March) and bring copies of your “license pending” letter.
Salary and Lifestyle Bonus
Starting salary for Vermont teachers with a bachelor’s degree is typically $48,000–$58,000 depending on the district, with many rural districts offering signing bonuses, housing assistance, or loan forgiveness. After five years and a master’s degree, many Vermont math teachers earn $75,000–$95,000 plus excellent benefits and a pension.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a math teacher in Vermont if I already have a bachelor’s degree? Most career changers are fully licensed and in the classroom within 12–24 months using the Peer Review or Transcript Review route.
Can I teach middle school math with the same license? Yes. The Mathematics 7–12 endorsement automatically allows you to teach grades 7–12. Some candidates add a Middle Grades endorsement with just a few extra courses.
Is student teaching required? Traditional programs yes. Alternative routes replace student teaching with a mentored first year on a provisional license.
What if I’m nervous about the Praxis Math exam? You’re not alone. Many successful Vermont teachers felt the same way and chose to work with experienced Praxis tutors or preparation programs that offer pass guarantees and one-on-one coaching until you pass.
Do I need a master’s degree to teach in Vermont? No, but most districts pay significantly more once you earn one (usually within your first 5–7 years).
Can I teach in Vermont if I’m licensed in another state? Yes! Vermont has full reciprocity. Just apply for a Professional License and submit your out-of-state license.
Ready to turn your love of math into a career that matters right here under Vermont’s green mountains? Whether you’re graduating this spring or finally making the leap from engineering, finance, or another field, the path is clearer than you think.
Need guaranteed help passing the Praxis Mathematics 5165 so you can start teaching (and earning) sooner? Visit TakeMyPraxisExam.com today for personalized preparation plans designed specifically for busy future Vermont teachers. Your students are waiting.