Teacher/Teach Minnesota

Become a Certified Teacher in the Twin Cities

Who We Are

Teach Minnesota is one of the state’s first alternative certification programs, training diverse, committed individuals – whether certified or not – to become effective teachers. We’re dedicated to promoting educational equity and empowering students to succeed both in the classroom and in life. Through Teach Minnesota, you’ll transform your academic and professional skills into a meaningful, high-impact teaching career in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area.

Who Our Students Need

Our teachers come from many walks of life, many transitioning from other careers, united by a commitment to end educational inequity.

You might be a seasoned professional looking for a fulfilling career change, or a recent graduate eager to share your passion for learning with Minnesota students. Regardless of your background, you believe every student has the potential to succeed, and you’re dedicated to helping them achieve at the highest level. No formal teaching experience is required.

We are currently seeking outstanding candidates to teach:

• Elementary Education (K-6)
• Special Education (K-12)

Why Teach Minnesota?

• Flexible Teaching Locations: We partner with a diverse set of districts, charter partners, single charter schools, and parochial schools. Fellows have the unique flexibility to find a school that fits their skills and interests. Our school partners will serve as your employer.
• Classroom-Centered Preparation: Fellows prepare to enter the classroom by participating in a summer training experience. Where traditional teacher preparation leaves little time for hands-on skill-building, our innovative training is centered around actual teaching experience in summer school classrooms. Fellows practice core skills that they need to be successful on their first day of teaching and ground their pedagogy in culturally responsive teaching.
• Full Salary and Benefits: While pursuing certification, Fellows work full-time at a district or charter school on a Tier 2 license and receive the same compensation as all other first-year teachers. The average starting salary range is $40,000-$45,000 plus comprehensive benefits. You will start as the teacher of record for the 2025-26 school year.
• Certification: During the first year in the classroom, Fellows earn certification through our program which includes coursework and individualized support that builds on the skills mastered during training. The tuition for Elementary certification is $7,000 and for Special Education certification is $8,500. The tuition is payable throughout the year once Fellows start receiving a full-time salary. In addition, various schools offer full or partial tuition reimbursement and the opportunity to apply for an AmeriCorps award up to $7,395 for education related expenses or previous student loans.
• Black Educator Excellence Cohort (BEEC): Understanding the diversity gap in teaching, the BEEC offers the opportunity for participating Teach Minnesota Cohort members to build community and fellowship with other BEEC members. This network of Black educators aims to limit feelings of isolation and to tackle issues that impact Black teachers more than their peers while working towards a more inclusive and impactful educational environment. Cohort members will receive tuition assistance, certification exam support, and networking and fellowship with a community of new and established Black educators.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (conferred by June 1, 2025)
• Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.25
• Have not held or currently hold a Tier 4 Minnesota teaching license