So You Wanna Be the Pied Piper of Push-Ups? How to Get Your Physical Education Certification in Georgia (Without Leaving Your Sweatpants On For Too Long)
Alright listen up, Jock Jams enthusiasts and dodgeball daydreamers! You've decided to take your love for fitness and fun from the sidelines to the gym floor – by becoming a certified PE teacher in the great state of Georgia. Buckle up, because while the path to becoming a PE guru is exciting, it's not exactly skipping rope through a field of daisies. But fear not, my friend, for this guide will be your metaphorical whistle, keeping you on track and out of dodgeball detention.
Getting Down to Business: The Two Main Routes
There are two main ways to snag that shiny new PE certification in Georgia, each with its own set of requirements. Consider yourself a freshly minted college grad? Then the Traditional Route might be your jam. Here's the skinny:
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
- Step 1: Grab a Bachelor's Degree (with a side of PE) This ain't rocket science, but you will need a bachelor's degree. Ideally, it should be in the realm of health and physical education, and bonus points if it includes a teacher preparation program (we'll get to that in a sec).
- Step 2: Master the Art of PE Teacher Prep Remember those teacher preparation programs we mentioned? These bad boys are chock-full of courses that'll turn you into a PE pro. Think things like curriculum development, teaching methods that are more engaging than dodgeball every day (although, dodgeball is pretty darn engaging), and how to keep a classroom full of bouncing beans under control (hint: it involves structure, and maybe a good playlist).
- Step 3: Pass Those Tests, Champ There will be assessments, my friend. You'll need to conquer the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE) content area test for PE. Don't worry, it's not about reciting every muscle in the human body (although that might impress your students).
The Alternative Route: For Experienced Enthusiasts
Maybe you already have a bachelor's degree, but it wasn't in the world of PE. No worries! The Induction Pathway 4 option is here for you. Here's the gist:
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- Step 1: Land a PE Teaching Gig This might be the toughest part. You'll need to convince a school to hire you as a PE teacher, even though you aren't officially certified yet. But hey, your passion and enthusiasm might just win them over!
- Step 2: Get Certified (While You Work Your Magic) Once you're employed, the school will help you get enrolled in an approved teacher education program. You'll also need to pass those GACE exams we mentioned earlier.
Remember: Whichever route you choose, you'll also need to clear a background check and complete fingerprinting. It's all about keeping the kiddos safe, and let's be honest, nobody wants dodgeball weapons falling into the wrong hands.
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
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| How To Get Physical Education Certification In Georgia |
FAQs for the Aspiring PE Teacher
How to choose a teacher education program?
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
- Look for programs approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (https://www.gapsc.com/).
- Consider programs that focus on the age group you want to teach (elementary, middle, or high school).
How long does it take to get certified?
- The traditional route typically takes four years (to earn your bachelor's degree). The Induction Pathway 4 can take a shorter or longer amount of time, depending on your chosen program.
How much does it cost to get certified?
- Costs can vary depending on your chosen program and assessments. Factor in tuition, test fees, and application fees.
What are some helpful resources?
- Georgia Professional Standards Commission (https://www.gapsc.com/)
- Georgia Department of Education (https://www.gadoe.org/Pages/Home.aspx)
Is dodgeball really a mandatory part of the curriculum?
- Not necessarily! But it's a great way to get your students moving and having fun. Just be sure to emphasize good sportsmanship (and maybe some mercy rules for those less-coordinated classmates).
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