Additional Education Requirements
Education Requirements Beyond Coursework
In addition to required coursework, all education majors must meet the following benchmarks. These requirements ensure teaching is a good fit for you early on and prepare you for an Idaho teaching license.
Academic & Professional Standards
- Core Performance Standards: Read, sign, and submit the Core Performance Standards Form to studentteaching@byui.edu.
- Maintain a 2.50 GPA: Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50 for all major and minor coursework for continuance in the program. (Note: Some programs require a higher GPA; please refer to the course catalog for your specific major).
- Disposition Ratings: Educators must demonstrate specific professional dispositions. Instructors will rate your professional behavior in core and selected classes throughout the program ([Download Rubric Here]).
- Background Check & Fingerprinting: This is required prior to participating in any clinical experiences or school placements.
Certifications & Exams
- Praxis Exams: The Praxis assesses knowledge in your specific certification areas. Required exams vary by major and minor. All applicable Praxis exams must be taken and passed the semester prior to student teaching ([View Exam & Praxis Details]). Reach out to your program director for guidance on which exams you need to take.
- Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Assessments (ICLA): Candidates must pass these exams with a score of 70% or higher prior to student teaching. They are typically taken as part of your literacy or reading coursework:
- Elementary, Early Childhood/Special Ed, and Special Ed K-12: Must pass exams for Standards 1–5.
- Secondary Education: Must pass exams for Standards 2, 4, and 5.
- Educator Technology Certification: Students must earn their Google Educator Level 1 Certification the semester prior to student teaching. (Note: Some majors include this in a required class, while others require independent completion. Check with your program advisor to verify). Visit the Google Educator Level 1 Certification.
Clinical Preparation & Evaluation
- Proof of Performance: Initial teaching certification is based on your demonstrated knowledge, performance, and dispositions. You will be evaluated using the Danielson Framework for Teaching during your practicum and student teaching courses.