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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

If you want to become a high school math teacher in Kansas, there are specific steps to follow. From earning the right degree to passing certification exams and getting licensed, the process can seem overwhelming at first.

This guide simplifies it for you. Whether you're a college student or changing careers, you'll learn what qualifications are required, how to meet them, and where to find teaching opportunities in Kansas. With clear guidance on each step, you’ll be better prepared to pursue a meaningful and rewarding role in education.

Key Points About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in Kansas

Kansas offers a steady job outlook for high school math teachers, with growing demand driven by STEM education emphasis across public schools.
The average salary for high school math teachers in Kansas hovers around $55,000 annually, competitive for the Midwest region.
Kansas provides a welcoming environment for new teachers, combining affordable living with strong community support and opportunities for professional growth.

What are the educational requirements to become a high school math teacher in Kansas?
What colleges in Kansas offer high school math education programs?
How do I get certified to teach high school math in Kansas?
How do I renew my math teaching license in Kansas?
Are high school math teachers in high demand in Kansas?
How much do high school math teachers make in Kansas?
What benefits do high school teachers receive in Kansas?
How can I reduce the cost of becoming a high school math teacher in Kansas?
How do state policies and institutional regulations influence high school math teaching in Kansas?
What additional certifications can strengthen my teaching career in Kansas?
How can a high school math teacher advance their career in Kansas?
What are the common challenges for high school math teachers in Kansas?
How can I switch careers to become a high school math teacher in Kansas?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in Kansas

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

Embarking on the journey to become a high school math teacher in Kansas opens up a world of opportunity for those passionate about numbers and education. Understanding the educational pathway is essential to meet the specific requirements that lead to a successful teaching career.

To meet the license requirements in the state, candidates must complete several key educational milestones. These requirements ensure you are well-prepared both in subject knowledge and teaching skills.

Bachelor's degree requirements for Kansas math teachers: Earn a bachelor's degree, preferably in mathematics or a closely related field, which is the minimum academic credential needed.
Work experience in mathematics: If holding a math degree, you must also have relevant work experience in the mathematics field to strengthen your practical understanding.
Teacher education program completion: Enroll in and complete a teacher education program that covers pedagogy, classroom management, assessment techniques, and methods specific to teaching math.
Practical teaching experience: Gain hands-on experience through internships or student teaching opportunities, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real classroom settings.

For those exploring career options with associate degree in education, these foundational steps provide a clear route toward becoming a certified high school math teacher in Kansas.

What colleges in Kansas offer high school math education programs?

Embarking on the path to become a high school math teacher in Kansas invites exploration of several notable institutions offering strong mathematics education programs. These colleges in Kansas with math education programs provide diverse approaches to preparing future educators, blending theory with hands-on experience in real classrooms.

Consider these options for your journey:

Kansas State University: KSU offers a vibrant Secondary Mathematics Education program featuring multiple field experiences in middle and high schools, allowing students to engage with diverse populations and develop innovative teaching methods that shift their perspective from learner to instructor.
Washburn University in Topeka: Washburn University in Topeka presents multiple pathways through its bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, or bachelor of education degrees, all designed to prepare students for teaching grades 6-12. Their mathematics education program is among the strongest in the state, with a B.Ed. track that can be completed in four years without summer classes, including coursework in calculus, algebra, geometry, discrete math, and statistics.
Wichita State University: Wichita State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Education focuses on middle and high school mathematics, combining rigorous classroom instruction with real-world teaching experience in Kansas’ largest school district. The curriculum requires 120 credit hours, including 27 content credits beyond Calculus 2 for secondary-level mathematics licensure (grades 6-12).

The demand for math teachers in Kansas currently exceeds supply, with school administrators frequently reaching out to universities about openings, creating a timely opportunity for aspiring educators. For those who prefer flexibility or remote learning, exploring an online college to become a teacher can be a valuable option alongside traditional routes.

To highlight how these institutions contribute to the state’s teaching workforce, the following illustration shows the number of certified math teachers in the United States.

Percent of public middle and high school math teachers with advanced teaching certification.

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

Becoming a certified high school math teacher in Kansas is a journey that combines academic preparation with practical steps designed to ensure readiness for the classroom. Each phase is an opportunity to develop the skills and credentials needed to inspire the next generation of mathematical thinkers.

Praxis Content Exam: Demonstrate your expertise by passing the mathematics-specific Praxis exam, a national assessment that verifies your subject knowledge.
Initial Teaching License Application: Apply for the two-year Initial teaching license in Kansas, which allows you to start teaching while gaining valuable classroom experience.
Background Checks: Complete mandatory background screenings to ensure a secure and trustworthy environment for students.
Professional Development: Advance to the Professional license by engaging in ongoing education and training, maintaining your credentials through continuous growth.

How do I renew my math teaching license in Kansas?

Renewing a high school math teacher license in Kansas is an engaging process that combines clear steps with opportunities for professional growth. Whether you hold an Initial or Professional License, each path has distinct requirements designed to support lifelong learning and development.

Initial License renewal: Valid for two years, this license can be renewed by submitting KSDE Form 20 within five years of first issuance if the district mentoring program was not completed.
Mentoring program completion: Successfully finishing a one-year district mentoring program allows upgrading from an Initial to a Professional License.
Professional development or assessments: Renewal may require passing content assessments, earning eight semester hours of recent credit related to your math endorsement, or completing 160 professional development points (120 if you hold an advanced degree).
Professional License renewal: Valid for five years, renewal requires accumulating 160 professional development points with a bachelor’s degree or 120 points with a master’s or higher degree through approved coursework, seminars, or conferences.
Approval by Professional Development Council: All professional development activities must be approved locally, encouraging teachers to tailor learning to their interests and career growth.

Unlike other states, Kansas emphasizes professional development points over standardized testing for renewal, giving teachers the freedom to explore diverse educational experiences. For those interested in understanding the various degrees of education that support these requirements, this approach aligns well with ongoing professional enhancement and license renewal requirements.

Are high school math teachers in high demand in Kansas?

The need for high school math teachers in Kansas is soaring in 2025, opening doors for individuals eager to shape young minds. This surge is not isolated but part of a wider shortage impacting schools statewide and nationally.

Teacher Shortage Scale: Kansas reports between 1,000 and 1,999 vacant teaching roles, with math educators among the most urgently sought specialists.
Annual Hiring vs. Supply: Although around 1,000 new teachers are hired yearly, the number of qualified math teacher graduates falls short, intensifying the demand.
Specialized Vacancy Trends: The shortage in mathematics is notably more severe than in many other subjects across Kansas high schools.
National Context: The state’s challenges mirror a larger U.S. trend, where tens of thousands of teaching positions remain unfilled.
Real-World Openings: Job listings, like the one from Hoisington USD 431 seeking experienced upper-level math instructors, illustrate the active recruitment efforts.

When I spoke with a high school math teacher from Kansas, she shared, “The demand definitely feels real. Last year, our district struggled to find enough certified math teachers, which meant I took on extra classes and helped mentor newer staff.”

She also explained the process of adapting curriculum and collaborating closely with administrators to ensure students didn’t miss out. “It was challenging but rewarding—I saw firsthand how critical our role is, especially when filling gaps quickly becomes vital.” Her experience highlights how this shortage not only creates opportunities but also fosters a tight-knit, dedicated community of educators rising to meet the need with enthusiasm and resilience.

How much do high school math teachers make in Kansas?

Curious about how rewarding a career as a high school math teacher in Kansas can be? The salary landscape here reflects a range of opportunities influenced by multiple factors that shape earning potential over time.

Here are key factors affecting salaries for Kansas high school math teachers:

Experience level: Entry-level teachers start around $30,186 annually, while seasoned educators can earn up to $56,914 or even $65,200 in larger districts or specialized roles.
District contracts: Salary bases vary significantly; for instance, Hoisington USD 431 offers $42,000, whereas USD 483 provides $45,800 plus fringe benefits, illustrating how contracts impact total compensation.
Location: Urban and suburban districts, especially high-need areas, often pay more than rural schools, reflecting regional economic differences and demand.
Education and advancement: Your salary potential grows with higher qualifications and experience, making it important to explore options such as how long does it take to become a math teacher in Kansas and continuing education paths like are online library science masters degrees affordable.

To better understand how these earnings compare to other career paths, the following chart illustrates how high school teacher salaries stack up against wages in other professions.

What benefits do high school teachers receive in Kansas?

Exploring the benefits for high school math teachers in Kansas reveals a supportive environment designed to attract talented educators. Beyond competitive salaries, the state offers a variety of perks that enhance the teaching experience and financial stability.

In the USD 431 Hoisington district, for example, educators receive $742 monthly toward Blue Cross/Blue Shield health insurance via the ESSDACK Health Insurance Pool, alongside a base salary starting at $42,000 for the 2025–2026 school year. Such packages highlight Kansas’s dedication to comprehensive teacher support.

Here are some key benefits that make teaching math in Kansas appealing:

Dental Coverage: Districts often cover dental insurance, easing out-of-pocket expenses for educators.
Life Insurance: Many schools provide life insurance policies paid for by the district, adding financial security.
Parental Leave: Paid parental leave programs support teachers balancing family and career responsibilities.
Retirement Plans: Access to Missouri’s PSRS or PEERS retirement systems offers long-term financial planning opportunities.
Additional Earnings: In some districts like USD 431, math teachers can increase income by teaching concurrent courses with local colleges.

The Kansas State Public Schools system describes its benefits as “highly competitive,” emphasizing a well-rounded package that includes medical, dental, disability, life insurance, and retirement—all designed to nurture educators’ careers and well-being.

How can I reduce the cost of becoming a high school math teacher in Kansas?

Explore cost-effective pathways by researching programs that integrate academic requirements with hands-on experience to reduce overall expenses. Candidates may benefit from tuition assistance, grants, and alternative certification routes that streamline the process. Review comprehensive strategies and consider options such as using the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Kansas to manage financial commitments effectively.

How do state policies and institutional regulations influence high school math teaching in Kansas?

State education policies and institutional regulations play a pivotal role in shaping the professional landscape for high school math teachers in Kansas. These policies determine certification standards, classroom practices, and ongoing professional development requirements that affect both job stability and career progression. Changes in state regulations can create new opportunities for specialization, while also influencing salary scales and resource allocation. For educators transitioning from other teaching levels, understanding middle school math teacher requirements in Kansas offers additional insights into comparable certification pathways and regulatory expectations.

What additional certifications can strengthen my teaching career in Kansas?

Obtaining advanced certifications can enhance subject expertise and diversify instructional strategies. Pursuing specialized endorsements—whether focused on curriculum innovation, technology integration, or financial literacy—can create pathways toward leadership roles and academic consulting without duplicating existing licensure requirements. Teachers seeking to expand their interdisciplinary skills may consider exploring opportunities that offer practical insights into numerical analysis and real-world applications, as demonstrated by the best accounting schools in Kansas.

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

Exploring a career as a high school math teacher in Kansas opens the door to a variety of exciting advancement opportunities beyond the classroom. Whether you're aiming to lead, specialize, or transition into higher education, the pathways are diverse and rewarding.

Leadership Roles in Schools: Take on positions such as department chair or curriculum coordinator, which typically require several years of teaching experience and strong organizational skills. These roles allow you to influence math education strategies and mentor fellow teachers.
Professional Development Programs: Engage in state-supported or district-offered career advancement programs aimed at enhancing instructional techniques and leadership capabilities. Participation often requires a valid teaching license and a commitment to ongoing learning.
Transition to Higher Education: Pursue advanced degrees like a master’s or doctorate in mathematics or education to qualify for college-level teaching roles. Universities often look for candidates with strong academic backgrounds and teaching experience.
Specialist or Curriculum Developer: Move into roles focusing on math curriculum design or educational technology integration, which usually involve additional certifications or expertise in curriculum standards and instructional design.
Educational Administration: Advance toward roles such as assistant principal or principal by obtaining administrative credentials and demonstrating leadership in school settings. These positions combine educational insight with management responsibilities.

In addition to these traditional advancement paths, an increasing number of math teachers in Kansas and across the country are entering the profession through alternative licensure routes, highlighting the growing flexibility in how educators launch and develop their careers. The following illustration shows how many math teachers were licensed through alternative programs.

Percent of math teachers who completed alternative programs that led to licensure.

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

Becoming a high school math teacher in Kansas offers a unique journey filled with both rewarding moments and notable challenges. Understanding these hurdles can prepare aspiring educators for the realities they will face in the classroom.

Kansas math teacher shortage retirement crisis: The state is grappling with a significant wave of retirements among experienced math teachers, leaving many classrooms understaffed. New and veteran teachers often share the responsibility of filling these gaps, which can mean larger class sizes and increased pressure to maintain quality instruction.
Technology challenges for Kansas math educators: Especially in the post-pandemic era, teachers must navigate rapidly evolving educational technologies. Many find themselves learning new digital tools on the fly, striving to engage students both in-person and remotely without sufficient training or resources.
Addressing pandemic-related learning loss: Students show only modest improvement on national math assessments, prompting teachers to accelerate learning while managing diverse skill levels. This balancing act requires creativity and patience, often without the luxury of extra time or support staff.

I recently spoke with a high school math teacher from a Kansas private school who described the emotional complexity behind these statistics. They recalled a day when, faced with a class of students struggling to catch up after remote learning, they stayed late to create customized lesson plans aimed at closing gaps.

Despite feeling overwhelmed by the shortage of resources and the constant need to adapt technology, the teacher found motivation in small victories, like when a student finally grasped a difficult concept. Their experience highlighted the resilience and innovation Kansas educators bring to their classrooms every day, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

Their story reflects a broader reality—many Kansas math teachers wish they had more time for essential activities like individualized instruction, collaboration with colleagues, and planning engaging lessons, which is a need clearly shown in the chart below.

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

Switching careers to become a high school math teacher in Kansas can be an exciting new path for those eager to inspire young minds. The state offers clear steps to help professionals make this transition smoothly.

Complete an Approved Teacher Education Program: Enroll in a state-recognized program that prepares you with teaching methods and math-specific instructional strategies.
Pass the Praxis Exams: Successfully clear the Praxis content assessments tailored for high school math educators, ensuring you meet national standards for subject knowledge.
Leverage STEM Experience: If you have a mathematics degree and relevant work experience, you may qualify for a specialized STEM teaching license, acknowledging your practical expertise.
Earn the Initial Kansas Teaching License: After meeting education and testing requirements, obtain this two-year valid license, which serves as the official entry point into Kansas classrooms.
Meet Credit Requirements: Make sure your recent college credits align with state expectations to demonstrate your academic readiness for teaching.

For those wondering if teaching is the right path, understanding the realities behind the role is key. If you are curious about the pathways into education, especially if you wonder are education degrees easy, exploring the profession’s demands and rewards can help clarify your decision.

What High School Math Teachers in Kansas Say About Their Careers

Teaching high school math in Kansas has given me a wonderful sense of job stability and financial security. The competitive salaries here allow me to focus fully on my students without constant worry about finances. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my students grow while knowing my career is on solid ground. – Sabrina

One of the unique challenges I face as a math teacher in Kansas is adapting lessons to both rural and suburban classrooms, which keeps my teaching fresh and dynamic. The diversity in student backgrounds pushes me to be creative and resourceful every day, making my work deeply fulfilling. – Aaron

Kansas offers excellent professional development programs tailored specifically for math educators, which has helped me continually refine my teaching strategies. These opportunities make me feel supported and valued as an educator, fueling my passion for math and student success. – Peter

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

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

Exploring the average class size for high school math in Kansas reveals intriguing variations influenced by geography and school type. Urban districts tend to have larger classes, often reaching around 25 to 30 students, while rural schools may offer more intimate settings with fewer than 20 pupils.

Additionally, public schools generally maintain different class sizes compared to private institutions, which might prioritize smaller groups for personalized learning experiences. These factors combine to create a dynamic teaching environment where aspiring educators can discover the ideal setting that aligns with their teaching style and career goals in Kansas.

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

Embarking on the journey to become a high school math teacher in Kansas typically takes about four to five years. First, aspiring educators complete a bachelor’s degree, often in mathematics or education, which usually lasts four years. Following this, they must complete a teacher preparation program, including student teaching, taking an additional year unless enrolled in an accelerated track.

Some Kansas universities offer accelerated programs that blend undergraduate studies with teacher certification, allowing candidates to enter classrooms faster. This adventurous path offers eager math enthusiasts a chance to dive into teaching sooner while gaining valuable experience and licensure through rigorous, focused study.

Is it hard to teach math in Kansas?

Teaching high school math in Kansas offers a mix of challenges and rewards that invite exploration. The state’s curricula align with the Kansas College and Career Ready Standards, emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving, which can be both stimulating and demanding for educators. While some schools boast strong resources and technology integration, others in rural areas may face limitations, requiring adaptability and creativity from teachers.

Grade levels typically cover Algebra, Geometry, and Calculus, demanding a solid content knowledge base. Overall, the experience varies, inviting adventurous educators to navigate diverse classroom environments and contribute meaningfully to student success.

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

High school math teachers in Kansas typically work around 40 to 50 hours per week, blending classroom instruction with essential behind-the-scenes tasks. Their days often start with lesson planning, followed by teaching various math topics like algebra and geometry to diverse student groups. Beyond teaching, these educators engage in grading assignments, collaborating with colleagues, and attending meetings that shape school policies and student progress.

Administrative duties also play a significant role, including preparing reports and communicating with parents. This dynamic schedule invites aspiring teachers to embrace both the challenges and rewards of shaping young minds in Kansas classrooms.

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