So, you’re thinking about becoming a teacher on a military base? It’s a rewarding path with its own unique opportunities. This post guides you through everything you need to know about pursuing a teaching job at a military base school.
Table of Contents:
- Understanding the DoDEA
- How to Become a Teacher on Military Bases: The Application Process
- Meeting DoDEA Requirements: What You Need to Know
- Additional Tips for Aspiring DoDEA Teachers
- Conclusion
Understanding the DoDEA
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) operates schools on military bases across the globe. It’s a large network, considered one of the biggest American school systems, with many schools overseas. The DoDEA is divided into three regions: The Americas, Europe, and the Pacific.
DoDEA schools offer classes from pre-K through 12th grade. They strive for high student achievement, are regionally accredited, and adhere to high educational standards. DoDEA also has minimum scores and testing requirements.
How to Become a Teacher on Military Bases: The Application Process
Applying for DoDEA teaching jobs is done online through their Employment Application System (EAS). Even if you see job postings on sites like Indeed.com, submit your employment application directly through the EAS portal for full consideration.
This is the standard procedure for DoDEA teacher positions. For non-teaching jobs like principals or educational aides, visit USAJobs.gov, which may include exclusive listings for current DoDEA employees.
Substitute Teaching Opportunities
If you’re interested in substitute teaching, tutoring, or training instructor roles, the process differs from regular teaching applications. Find these positions on USAJobs.gov instead of the EAS. The Office of Personnel Management provides further information regarding federal job postings.
Meeting DoDEA Requirements: What You Need to Know
Whether you’re interested in schools in the US, Guam, or Puerto Rico, eligibility requirements for open positions generally remain consistent. Consider the necessary credentials and certifications for these competitive teaching jobs.
Academic Requirements
You’ll need teaching endorsements from a state that matches DoDEA categories. Secure your official transcripts and a baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association. DoDEA requires professional teacher education, including student teaching.
DoDEA also outlines other academic prerequisites, such as specific subject expertise in areas like social studies or fine arts, 40 hours of general education courses, and 18 hours of professional teacher education coursework. These combined experiences will strengthen your application.
While student teaching provides practical training, extensive, successful classroom experience may suffice.
Testing and Certification
DoDEA utilizes PRAXIS I and PRAXIS II tests to assess teaching competency. The required scores for elementary, middle, and high school teaching positions are usually specified. DoDEA uses these to evaluate required academic preparation.
| PRAXIS Test | Test Code | Qualifying Score (Effective Sept 1, 2019) |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 5713 | 156 |
| Writing | 5723 | 162 |
| Mathematics | 5733 | 150 |
| Principles of Learning and Teaching: Grades K–6 | 5622 | 160 |
| Principles of Learning and Teaching: Grades 5-9 | 5623 | 160 |
| Principles of Learning and Teaching: Grades 7-12 | 5624 | 158 |
After securing employment, you’ll engage in DoDEA’s own certification. It begins with a Provisional (temporary) certificate, which transitions to a Professional certificate upon fulfilling specific requirements. You will need to submit proof of minimum scores.
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Support Roles within DoDEA
DoDEA also employs school psychologists, JROTC instructors, non-certified training instructors, guidance counselors, and school nurses. Each position requires specialized qualifications, including any certifications for school nurses or training instructors, and professional teacher education.
International support positions might require adhering to specific regulations. Foreign Service family members should familiarize themselves with diplomatic rules, bilateral work agreements, and de facto work arrangements. Foreign earned degrees may need evaluation for verification and qualification purposes.
Additional Tips for Aspiring DoDEA Teachers
Highlight related skills, certifications, and flexibility with grade levels or subject areas on your federal resume. Showcase extracurricular activities and create a well-crafted resume detailing your relevant experience.
Research organizations like International Schools Services, or The American Educational Research Association to connect with other educators seeking international and military teaching opportunities. DoDEA seeks individuals who have successful teaching experience. Be sure to tailor your application to highlight experiences relevant to open DoDEA jobs and to showcase professional teacher education.
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Conclusion
Teaching on a military base offers the chance to educate military children. It allows teachers to join a supportive community, DoDEA. Carefully meeting the security clearance, academic preparation, and certification standards is important for competitive applicants.
Use this guide as a starting point in your research and learn how to successfully apply for a DoDEA teaching position and how to become a teacher on military bases.
