If you're exploring how to become a teacher, one of the biggest decisions is choosing between traditional certification and American Board certification.
Traditional Certification
✔ 4-year education degree
✔ Student teaching built into program
✔ Strong mentorship structure
❌ Expensive tuition
❌ Time-intensive
❌ Less flexible
American Board Certification (AmericanBoard.org)
✔ Fully online and self-paced
✔ Lower cost
✔ Designed for career changers
✔ Focuses on competency exams
❌ Requires strong self-discipline
❌ State availability varies
Traditional programs are ideal for recent high school graduates who want a structured college experience.
American Board works best for:
Both paths can lead to licensure — but your timeline, budget, and learning style matter most.
If your goal is speed and flexibility, American Board may be the smarter choice.
👉 Learn more in our main guide: https://medium.com/@danysmithabcte/how-to-become-a-teacher-a-2026-step-by-step-guide-882a3466fb33
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