Kentucky · Career guide
How to become a Science Teacher in Kentucky
Science teachers cover biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and (increasingly) integrated NGSS-aligned curricula. Like math, secondary science is on most state shortage lists — physics and chemistry endorsements especially. Lab management, safety certification, and inquiry-based instruction are core craft skills the role demands.
No science teaching positions are open in Kentucky right now — set up an alert and we'll notify you when new postings are scraped.
Certification path in Kentucky
- Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Most candidates complete a teacher-preparation program either as part of their undergraduate studies or as a post-baccalaureate add-on.
- Pass the required exams. Kentucky typically requires:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores) — Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject Assessments — Content knowledge for your certification area
- edTPA — Performance assessment during student teaching
Science endorsements are often broken out (biology, chemistry, physics, integrated science). Each may require its own content exam.
- Apply for your initial license through Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB). The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB) →
- Job-search in Kentucky. We'll track science teaching openings as districts post them; set up an alert to be notified immediately when new positions go live.
Alternative pathways in Kentucky
If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, Kentucky offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:
- Statement of Eligibility (SOE): Allows teaching while completing certification requirements
- Career and Technical Education certification for industry professionals
- Adjunct Instructor Certificate for part-time specialized instruction
Kentucky salary context
Average teacher salary in Kentucky: $54,206/year (rank #38 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $38,000/year.
Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full Kentucky salary guide for the breakdown.