How to Become a High School Math Teacher in Alaska for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a high school math teacher in Alaska is a fulfilling journey for those passionate about education and math. The state’s diverse communities and remote settings offer unique rewards and challenges. However, navigating Alaska’s certification, education, and licensing requirements can be complex.

This guide helps both college students and career-changers understand each step—covering degree requirements, certification, and job search strategies—to confidently pursue a teaching career in Alaska.

Key Points About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in Alaska

Alaska offers a positive job outlook for high school math teachers due to steady demand and statewide efforts to improve STEM education.
The average salary for high school math teachers in Alaska is approximately $70,000 annually, higher than the national average.
Alaska's smaller population and focus on education provide unique opportunities for personalized teaching and career growth in secondary math education.

What are the educational requirements to become a high school math teacher in Alaska?
What colleges in Alaska offer high school math education programs?
How do I get certified to teach high school math in Alaska?
How do I renew my math teaching license in Alaska?
Are high school math teachers in high demand in Alaska?
How much do high school math teachers make in Alaska?
What benefits do high school teachers receive in Alaska?
What are the alternative pathways to teacher certification in Alaska?
How do high school and middle school math teaching credentials differ in Alaska?
What are the emerging trends in math education for high school teachers in Alaska?
How can a high school math teacher advance their career in Alaska?
What are the common challenges for high school math teachers in Alaska?
How can I switch careers to become a high school math teacher in Alaska?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in Alaska

What are the educational requirements to become a high school math teacher in Alaska?

To meet the certification requirements in Alaska, aspiring high school math teachers must complete specific educational steps designed to ensure subject mastery and effective teaching skills. These requirements focus on academic preparation and specialized training.

A bachelor’s degree for Alaska high school math teaching: Candidates must earn a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. While the degree can be in any major, obtaining it in mathematics or mathematics education is strongly recommended to build the necessary subject-specific expertise.
Completion of an approved teacher preparation program: This program combines academic coursework with pedagogical methods and includes a supervised student teaching internship, which is crucial for hands-on classroom experience and meeting state standards.
Coursework in Alaska Studies: Teachers must complete three semester hours in Alaska Studies to gain a deeper understanding of the state’s history and cultural context, which is unique to Alaska’s certification requirements.
Multicultural education coursework: Another state-specific mandate is three semester hours in multicultural education, emphasizing cultural diversity awareness and inclusive teaching practices.

For those considering alternative pathways, researching options such as an education associate degree cost can provide insight into foundational credentials before pursuing a bachelor’s degree. These academic and practical components together form a comprehensive foundation for anyone targeting a teaching career in math at the high school level in Alaska.

What colleges in Alaska offer high school math education programs?

For aspiring high school math teachers in Alaska, several colleges offer specialized secondary math education programs designed to provide clear pathways to state certification. These programs cater to students with different educational backgrounds and career timelines, ensuring flexible options.

University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF): UAF features a comprehensive secondary education program with a distinctive double-major structure, combining mathematics expertise with teacher licensure preparation. Their accelerated Mathematics BS/Secondary Education M.Ed. program requires a minimum of 138 credits, efficiently blending undergraduate and graduate coursework to fast-track certification.
University of Alaska Southeast (UAS): UAS offers an intensive 11-month Master of Arts in Teaching program focused on Middle Grades and Secondary education (grades 6-12). This program is ideal for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to quickly obtain teaching certification. UAS is recognized as the #1 Best Value Math Teacher Education School in Alaska for families earning between $75,000 and $110,000 annually, with an estimated yearly cost of $15,877. The low 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio enhances personalized learning and mentorship opportunities.

These institutions not only support aspiring math teachers through flexible and affordable pathways but also reflect a broader national conversation about the importance of math education. The illustration below highlights how Americans perceive math as a critical subject that should be prioritized in schools.

Percentage of U.S. adults who believe math should be prioritized.

How do I get certified to teach high school math in Alaska?

To become a certified high school math teacher in Alaska, candidates must fulfill a set of academic and hands-on requirements that demonstrate their readiness to teach. The process includes a series of steps involving exams, educator preparation programs, and supervised teaching experience.

Pass Required Exams: Achieve passing scores on a basic competency exam and a math-specific content exam, commonly the Praxis II, which assesses your subject knowledge and teaching skills.
Complete Alaska-Focused Coursework: Finish three semester hours each in Alaska Studies and Alaska Multicultural courses to gain essential cultural and historical knowledge relevant to teaching in the state.
Submit Fingerprints for Background Check: Undergo FBI fingerprinting to complete a background screening that prioritizes student safety.
Complete Mandatory Trainings: Fulfill four required training sessions and provide documentation as part of your application to demonstrate your readiness.
Gain Teaching Experience: Document at least two years of teaching experience while holding a valid certificate, including submitting a resume and your latest evaluation, to qualify for a Professional Teacher Certificate.
Submit Application and Fees: Provide all necessary documents—official transcripts, exam results, coursework, trainings—through Alaska’s online certification portal along with the applicable fees to finalize the process.

Additionally, those interested in advancing their academic credentials may explore the best online doctorate in higher education program, which can further enhance educational expertise and career prospects.

How do I renew my math teaching license in Alaska?

Renewing a high school math teaching license in Alaska involves completing specific coursework and training every five years. The process ensures educators maintain relevant knowledge and meet state standards before renewing their certification.

Earn six semester hours of renewal credit: These credits must relate to your current employment, math endorsement, or a state-approved program for an additional endorsement. At least three credits must be upper-division or graduate-level coursework, while the other three can include lower-division credits, continuing education units (CEUs), or approved non-academic credits.
Complete four mandatory training modules: These trainings must be finished within the five years before renewal and are available online through the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development (DEED), often at no cost.
Employment verification or fingerprinting: If you are currently employed in a certified position by an Alaska school district, you may substitute employment verification for fingerprinting. Otherwise, you must submit a fingerprint card with your renewal application.
Submit renewal application early: Applications can be submitted up to one year before your certificate expires to ensure timely processing.

Alaska’s requirements for renewing a high school math teacher certification Alaska are more specific than some other states, especially in the mix of upper-division and graduate credits required. To stay on track, carefully document your continuing education and training activities. For more information on related academic pathways, explore examples of education degrees that can support your professional growth and license renewal.

Are high school math teachers in high demand in Alaska?

Alaska continues to face a strong need for high school math teachers, reflecting a broader national trend but with unique regional challenges. The state reported over 1,100 teaching vacancies in 2025, with math positions among the most difficult to fill.

Population distribution: Many districts are located in remote or rural areas, which complicates attracting and keeping qualified math educators.
STEM emphasis: The ongoing national priority on science, technology, engineering, and math education fuels demand for skilled math teachers at the high school level.
Teacher pipeline: Declining enrollment in teacher preparation programs results in fewer candidates ready to enter the profession, tightening the supply.

When speaking with a high school math teacher from Alaska, she shared her firsthand experience navigating this demand. “The recruitment process was surprisingly swift once I applied,” she recalled, emphasizing how districts actively seek out qualified teachers. She described the challenge of adapting lesson plans to diverse student needs, often bridging cultural and educational gaps unique to her community. “It’s rewarding but requires flexibility and creativity,” she said.

Despite the hurdles, she found immense satisfaction in knowing her role directly impacts students eager to succeed in math. Her story highlights that while the demand is high, so too is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in Alaska’s education landscape.

This growing demand creates numerous opportunities across the state, especially in districts with large student populations and strong STEM initiatives. The chart below highlights the United State's largest employers of high school math teachers.

How much do high school math teachers make in Alaska?

High school math teachers in Alaska earn some of the highest salaries in the nation, reflecting both the state's demand for qualified educators and its unique geographic challenges. Understanding the factors that influence these salaries can help prospective teachers make informed decisions about their careers and maximize their earning potential.

Experience: Salaries vary widely depending on years of teaching experience. Entry-level math teachers start near the lower end of the pay scale, while those with advanced degrees or additional certifications see significant increases over time.
Location and District: Alaska’s 55 school districts negotiate their own pay scales. Urban districts such as Anchorage often offer higher base salaries, whereas rural or remote districts provide geographic pay differentials, housing subsidies, and travel allowances to attract staff.
Salary Ranges: Typical salaries range from about $36,100 at the 25th percentile to $61,400 at the 75th percentile, with top earners reaching $77,920 or more depending on district contracts.

For those researching the math teacher certification timeline in Alaska, it’s crucial to consider district-specific pay scales and incentives tied to location as well as experience. Additionally, pursuing an online bachelors degree in early childhood education cost can be a valuable step in building credentials that increase salary potential.

What benefits do high school teachers receive in Alaska?

High school math teachers in Alaska benefit from some of the most attractive compensation and support packages in the nation. The state prioritizes rewarding educators who tackle the unique challenges of teaching math in remote areas.

Alaska offers salaries well above the national average, with starting pay and overall earnings reflecting a strong commitment to retaining skilled teachers in mathematics.

Competitive Salaries: Math teachers earn an average of $87,040 annually, significantly higher than the national average of $74,210, while entry-level positions start around $64,520 instead of the national $34,750.
Structured Salary Growth: Anchorage School District provides clear pay increases based on education and experience, with salaries ranging from $49,812 at entry-level to $65,277 after 12 steps for teachers holding a Bachelor's degree plus additional coursework.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage ensures teachers maintain their well-being, reducing personal financial risk related to medical expenses throughout their careers.
Retirement Benefits: The Teacher Retirement System (TRS) offers robust pension plans, helping educators plan for long-term financial security after their teaching careers.
Step Increases: Teachers receive regular pay raises tied to years of service and professional development, incentivizing continued growth and dedication.
Life Insurance: Included in standard benefit packages, life insurance provides financial protection for teachers’ families.
Housing Assistance: In districts such as Northwest Arctic Borough, subsidized housing with affordable rent options helps reduce living costs in remote locations.

For those wondering if is getting teaching degree hard in this context, it’s essential to recognize that preparation includes specialized training and an understanding of Alaska’s distinctive educational landscape.

What are the alternative pathways to teacher certification in Alaska?

For educators seeking efficient entry into the profession, alternative certification programs offer a streamlined approach that bypasses extended traditional coursework. These programs, including accelerated training and targeted preparatory courses, enable candidates to meet required standards in a timely manner. For those interested in reducing upfront costs, exploring the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Alaska can highlight affordable options that also maintain rigorous certification benchmarks.

How do high school and middle school math teaching credentials differ in Alaska?

For educators considering various teaching levels, it is crucial to understand how certification and curriculum focus vary between high school and middle school. High school credentials emphasize advanced subject matter mastery and strategies suited for adolescent learners, while middle school certifications often incorporate developmental approaches and classroom management tailored to younger students. Reviewing the middle school math teacher requirements in Alaska can offer comparative insights that help candidates align their professional goals with the appropriate certification path and specialized training opportunities.

What are the emerging trends in math education for high school teachers in Alaska?

Emerging trends in math education in Alaska emphasize the integration of digital tools and data analytics to enhance lesson delivery and student engagement. Teachers are increasingly adopting blended learning models and using technology-driven strategies to tailor instruction to diverse student needs. Furthermore, interdisciplinary approaches are being explored to connect mathematics with practical applications, such as incorporating financial literacy and analytical skills into the curriculum. For example, some educators are reviewing curricular innovations from the best accounting schools in Alaska to enrich their lesson plans and broaden students’ career perspectives. These advancements underscore the importance of continuous professional development and collaboration with educational technology experts to stay aligned with evolving academic standards.

How can a high school math teacher advance their career in Alaska?

High school math teachers in Alaska have several pathways to advance their careers, enhancing their skills and increasing their earning potential. These opportunities support professional growth within and beyond the classroom.

Leadership Roles: Experienced teachers can pursue positions such as department chair or curriculum coordinator, which often require demonstrated teaching excellence and leadership skills. These roles provide additional responsibilities and stipends.

Advanced Degree Programs: Earning a master’s or doctorate degree in mathematics or education can lead to salary supplements and qualify teachers for specialized roles. Alaska’s salary scales reward higher education with notable increases over time.

Professional Development and Certification: Participating in state-approved professional development programs and obtaining additional certifications enhance instructional techniques and open doors to mentor or coach roles within schools.

Teacher Retention and Recruitment Incentives: Teachers willing to work in remote or underserved districts may access cash incentives ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, supporting both recruitment and retention efforts.

Transitioning to Higher Education: With advanced degrees and teaching experience, some educators move into community college or university teaching positions, requiring at least a master’s degree and often a doctorate for tenure-track roles.

These career advancement options not only boost professional fulfillment but also contribute to higher earnings over time. The chart below highlights the highest-paying states for math teachers, with Alaska ranking among the top.

What are the common challenges for high school math teachers in Alaska?

Becoming a high school math teacher in Alaska means navigating distinct challenges shaped by the state’s geography and cultural context. These obstacles require creativity and resilience to provide effective education.

Geographic isolation: Many schools are located in remote areas, often accessible only by plane or boat, which complicates regular supply delivery and limits professional collaboration. Teachers overcome this by leveraging digital resources and forming strong local networks.
Cultural engagement: In rural communities, students often participate in subsistence hunting and fishing, leading to extended absences during those seasons. Teachers adapt by designing flexible lesson plans and incorporating culturally relevant examples to maintain student interest and respect traditions.
Trauma-informed teaching: High rates of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) among students require educators to employ trauma-sensitive strategies, balancing empathy with academic rigor to foster a supportive learning environment.
Teacher shortages in Alaska high schools: The scarcity of qualified math teachers increases workload and necessitates ongoing professional development to stay effective. Programs like Keys to Literacy and partnerships with organizations such as NextStepsAK provide crucial support.

A private school math teacher from Alaska shared that early in their career, the isolation felt overwhelming, especially during long winter months when flights were canceled and internet connectivity was unreliable. They recalled a moment when a student missed several weeks due to family subsistence activities, which initially caused concern about falling behind.

By collaborating with parents and using flexible assignments tailored to the student’s schedule, the teacher witnessed the student’s renewed enthusiasm for math upon return. This experience reinforced the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in overcoming challenges unique to teaching math in rural Alaska.

These realities also mean that many math teachers in Alaska and the country as a whole work in underserved communities, where resource disparities and economic challenges are common. The illustration below shows how many K–12 math teachers serve in high-poverty schools across the United States.

Percent of k-12 math teachers who work in high-poverty schools.

How can I switch careers to become a high school math teacher in Alaska?

Switching to a career as a high school math teacher in Alaska is a viable option for professionals seeking a meaningful change. The state offers structured pathways tailored to those with prior degrees or experience in other fields.

Obtain Initial Certification: Secure an Initial/Program Enrollment Teacher Certificate to begin teaching while fulfilling certification requirements.
Complete Teacher Preparation: Enroll in an approved teacher preparation program through one of Alaska’s accredited institutions offering secondary math education.
Pass Required Exams: Demonstrate basic skills in reading, writing, and math by passing exams such as the ACT, SAT, or GRE, and clear the Praxis II mathematics content assessment.
Fulfill Alaska-Specific Coursework: Complete three semester hours each in Alaska Studies and Alaska Multicultural courses to meet state mandates.
Complete Mandatory Training: Participate in four state-required training programs designed to prepare educators for the unique Alaskan context.
Utilize Career and Technical Education (CTE) Route: If applicable, obtain a provisional CTE certificate allowing you to teach while completing preparation requirements.
Apply for Professional Certification: After meeting all criteria, apply for a five-year renewable Professional Teacher Certificate to solidify your teaching credentials in Alaska.

What High School Math Teachers in Alaska Say About Their Careers

Teaching math in Alaska has given me a remarkable sense of job stability and financial security. The competitive salaries here allow me to focus fully on my students without the usual financial worries. I truly appreciate the support from the community and the state’s commitment to education. – Jenna

Working as a high school math teacher in Alaska presents unique challenges that push me to grow professionally every day. The diverse student backgrounds and the blend of rural and urban classrooms make every lesson an adventure. It’s rewarding to adapt and innovate in such a dynamic environment. – Marcus

Professional development in Alaska is outstanding, with many opportunities to attend workshops and collaborate with other educators across the state. These experiences have deepened my teaching skills and inspired new ways to engage students in math. The support network here makes me feel valued and motivated. – Leila

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in Alaska

What is the average class size for high school math in Alaska?

The average class size for high school math in Alaska typically ranges from 15 to 25 students, though this varies widely depending on location and institution type. Rural schools often have smaller classes due to lower enrollment, sometimes fewer than 15 students, while urban schools in Anchorage or Fairbanks may have classes closer to 25 or more.

Charter and specialized schools might also maintain smaller classes to support advanced or individualized instruction. Prospective teachers should research specific districts and consider targeted applications to schools with favorable student-to-teacher ratios to enhance teaching effectiveness and job satisfaction.

How many years does it take to be a high school math teacher in Alaska?

Becoming a high school math teacher in Alaska typically takes around four to five years. First, students complete a bachelor's degree in mathematics or education, which usually lasts four years. Following this, aspiring teachers must complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, often included within the undergraduate degree or as a one-year post-baccalaureate certification.

Alaska offers accelerated programs that combine coursework and student teaching, allowing candidates to finish faster. These streamlined options help qualified candidates enter the classroom sooner, especially through partnerships with local universities. Afterward, passing the Alaska Teacher Certification exams is required to teach high school math in the state.

Is it hard to teach math in Alaska?

Teaching high school math in Alaska presents unique challenges and opportunities. The state follows the Alaska Math Standards, which align closely with national Common Core guidelines, providing a clear curriculum framework. However, teachers may find variability in resources depending on whether they work in urban or rural schools, with rural areas sometimes facing limited access to advanced technology and materials.

Grade levels typically range from Algebra to Calculus, requiring teachers to be versatile in their subject expertise. To succeed, prospective teachers should seek professional development focused on differentiated instruction and remote teaching tools, especially for isolated communities. Building strong community connections can also enhance student engagement and support.

How many hours do math teachers work per week in Alaska?

High school math teachers in Alaska typically work around 40 to 50 hours per week. Their daily schedule includes about 5 to 6 hours of classroom teaching, covering lessons, assignments, and assessments. Outside of direct instruction, teachers spend time preparing lesson plans, grading papers, and collaborating with colleagues on curriculum development.

Additional responsibilities include attending staff meetings, participating in professional development, and communicating with parents. Managing classroom resources and supporting students individually also demand extra time. Effective time management and organization are essential strategies to balance these varied tasks efficiently.

References:

Anchorage School District. (n.d.). RETIREMENT TRS & PERS Defined Benefit Plan & Defined Contribution Plan. ASD
Commonwealth North. (2025). Alaska’s Education Crisis: Teachers, Funding, and a Community’s Resolve. Commonwealth North
K12JobSpot. (2025). High School Math Teacher. K12JobSpot
KSFK. (n.d.). New state law aims to get experienced teachers in front of Alaskan kids. KSFK
Math Teaching. (n.d.). Teaching Math in Alaska. MathTeaching.org
National Institute for Excellence in Teaching. (2023). Partnering to Strengthen Teacher Leadership in Rural Alaska. NIET
Reporting from Alaska Dermon Cole. (2019). Alaska's education challenge and Dunleavy's political failure. Dermot Cole
Teaching Certification. (n.d.). Alaska Teaching Salaries and Benefits. Teachingcertification.com
Zippia. (2023). Math Teacher demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia
ZipRecruiter. (2025). What Is the Average High School Math Teacher Salary by State. ZipRecruiter