How Do You Become a Gifted Resource Teacher?

Deciding on a career path as a gifted resource teacher allows you the opportunity to reach a unique demographic of students who thrive with academic challenges. Gifted resource teachers work with students who have strong skills that exceed those of their peers in one or more areas, such as academics, artistic creativity, and leadership. Due to their above-average intelligence, gifted students often face frustration and boredom when placed in a general education classroom, according to the Davidson Institute. That’s why gifted resource teachers are essential for providing stimulating learning environments in which each student’s specific learning style is addressed for optimal intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. If you’re interested in a rewarding career pushing gifted and talented students to reach their fullest potential, below is a step-by-step guide on how to successfully become a gifted resource teacher.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Education

At the minimum, gifted resource teachers must have a four-year undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Depending on the grade levels you wish to teach, you can choose to earn a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, elementary education, or secondary education. Many aspiring gifted resource teachers choose to major in special education to begin learning how to adjust curriculum to meet students’ specific learning needs. In addition to general education and education courses, you’ll be required to complete practicum watching other teachers in action. In the final year, you’ll spend at least one semester in a student teaching experience teaching students yourself. If possible, it’s advised that you pursue a teaching assignment in a gifted classroom to start building work experience.

Pass Teaching License Requirements

Next, you’ll need to meet all of the general teaching license requirements in your state to certify your competency in managing a classroom. You’ll likely need to pass a criminal background check and sign a consent form to share your fingerprints. Most states will mandate that new teaching candidates pass a series of certification tests to demonstrate their pedagogical knowledge and teaching skills. Whether in paper-based or computer-based format, many states require teachers to pass the Praxis series tests in their certification area, according to the Educational Testing Service. Continuing education credits from workshops dealing with child abuse may also be required. Contact your state’s board of education to determine exactly what license requirements are needed.

Consider Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Gifted Education

Once you become a teacher and gain teaching experience in the classroom, it’s a smart idea to remain educated by returning to graduate school for a master’s degree. In some states, you’ll even be required to earn a graduate degree within a certain number of years to remain at the head of the classroom. Across the United States, more universities are offering Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) degrees with concentrations or certificates in gifted education. You may even find convenient online programs that allow you to further your education without interrupting your teaching career. Specializing in gifted education will help you delve into advanced topics and learn teaching strategies specifically for motivating academically talented students.

Related Resource: Education Policy

Overall, gifted resource teachers must understand the unique challenges faced by gifted students at school and at home to ensure their success. Once you follow these steps to become a gifted resource teacher, you’ll have the credentials to work with some of the three million gifted students in America and educate many of tomorrow’s bright young leaders.