How to Become a Kindergarten Teacher in Minnesota for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Starting a kindergarten teaching career in Minnesota can feel daunting for those unfamiliar with the state’s licensing process. With 88% of districts reporting teacher shortages, skilled educators are in high demand. This demand opens doors for aspiring teachers ready to meet the state’s certification standards. Yet, many face uncertainty about the exact steps to get licensed and enter the classroom.

This article, prepared by career-planning experts, breaks down Minnesota’s certification process, from education prerequisites to licensure exams and fieldwork. It aims to simplify each step and provide practical guidance, helping you confidently pursue a rewarding career as a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in Minnesota

To become a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota, candidates must earn a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education, completing 100 credits approved by the state.
Teachers are required to pass the K–6 Minnesota Teacher Licensure Exams (MTLE), with first-time pass rates averaging 80%.
A 16-week student teaching practicum is required, with a minimum of 550 supervised hours in the classroom.
Licensure is obtained through the Minnesota Board of Teaching, with an annual $90 fee, 125 Professional Development Points (PDPs) for renewal, and a five-year renewal cycle.
Kindergarten teachers in Minnesota earn an average salary of $64,010, work in classrooms with a 17:1 student-teacher ratio, and can expect 5% job growth by 2028.

What qualifications do you need to become a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?
What skills are important for a successful kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?
What is the average salary of a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?
What are the job responsibilities of a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?
How can you get teaching experience for kindergarten in Minnesota?
What is the job outlook for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota?
How can kindergarten teachers develop expertise in inclusive classroom practices?
How Do State Policies and Funding Impact Kindergarten Teaching Careers in Minnesota?
How can you minimize the expense of obtaining your kindergarten teaching credential in Minnesota?
What distinguishes private school kindergarten teaching from public school roles in Minnesota?
How can aspiring kindergarten teachers effectively prepare for licensure exams in Minnesota?
What are the challenges of being a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?
What continuing education opportunities are available for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota?
How can you find a job as a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?
What are the best resources for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in Minnesota

What qualifications do you need to become a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?

Aspiring kindergarten teachers must meet state standards in a clear sequence. Here are the core steps to secure your license:

Enroll in a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: This includes completing at least 16 weeks of supervised practicum experience in a Minnesota-licensed classroom. Look for an accredited online bachelor's in teaching to complete these requirements more flexibly.
Register and Pass the Minnesota Teacher Licensing Examinations (MTLE): You’ll need to pass both the content and pedagogy assessments specifically for early childhood education.
Prepare and Submit the edTPA Portfolio: The portfolio must include detailed lesson plans, instructional videos, and reflective commentary to demonstrate your teaching effectiveness.
Apply for Your Initial License: Submit your application to the Minnesota Department of Education with transcripts and exam scores.
Plan for Ongoing Growth: To maintain your license, you’ll need to complete 125 continuing education credits within five years, including courses focused on early childhood methods.

What skills are important for a successful kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?

To be a successful kindergarten teacher in Minnesota, certain skills are essential for fostering a positive learning environment and supporting young children’s development. Below are the key skills that will help you excel in this role:

1. Strong Communication and Cultural Responsiveness

Begin by learning basic greetings and phrases in the home languages of your students and their families. Schedule regular check‑ins with parents through phone calls or short newsletters. Use simple, clear language when documenting student progress in tools like the Kindergarten Entry Profile pilot, ensuring you highlight each child’s strengths and areas for growth.

2. Effective Classroom Management and Observation

Set up visual routines with labeled bins and charts so five‑year‑olds know what comes next. Implement positive behavior interventions (PBIS) to reinforce cooperation—praise specific actions like “Thank you for lining up quietly.” Conduct quick, daily observations aligned to ECIPs and note trends in social‑emotional skills to adjust seating plans or group activities.

3. Solid Content Knowledge Aligned with ECIPs and Early Learning Standards

Map out a weekly plan that integrates phonemic awareness, number sense, and inquiry-based exploration into play‑based stations. For example, host a letter scavenger hunt then follow with a counting game. Join MAEYC workshops or webinars to refresh your lesson designs and ensure they align with state standards.

4. Family and Community Collaboration

Organize monthly family workshops or open‑house mornings where parents help run a literacy activity. Create a resource list of local libraries and community centers to share with families, especially in rural areas. Partner with tribal liaisons or ESL coordinators to tailor take‑home activities for diverse households.

5. Reflective Practice and Professional Growth

Block one hour each week for peer observations or video reviews of your lessons. Participate in MTLE study groups and log completed trainings in special education referral processes or trauma‑informed care. Use this feedback cycle to set one or two goals each semester and revisit them during license renewal.

What is the average salary of a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?

The average kindergarten teacher salary in Minnesota was $64,010 annually. Salaries typically range from around $48,000 at the 10th percentile to $83,000 at the 90th percentile. This range can vary depending on factors such as experience, district, and local demand. The median salary for kindergarten teachers is approximately $62,750, meaning half of the teachers earn at or above this level.

For those looking to increase their earning potential, pursuing an online master's in teaching or gaining additional professional experience can help boost salary. Minnesota's kindergarten teacher pay ranks in the top third nationally, but comparing these wages with states like New York can help assess the real value based on the cost of living.

What are the job responsibilities of a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?

Kindergarten teachers in Minnesota handle various responsibilities aimed at fostering a structured and nurturing environment for young learners. These are the key job responsibilities:

Planning Standards-Aligned Lessons: Design lesson plans that align with the Early Childhood Indicators of Progress (ECIPs) and schedule regular formative assessments to monitor progress.
Assessing Student Progress: Use both formative and summative assessments, including quick exit tickets and observation logs, to track student development daily.
Establishing Classroom Routines: Set up clear routines, model behavior expectations, and reinforce norms to create a consistent and safe environment.
Differentiating Instruction: Group students based on their readiness levels, offering tailored materials, and adjusting activities to meet diverse needs.
Integrating Arts and Play-Based Learning: Rotate centers and select thematic resources that connect arts, music, and play with core academic skills.
Using Technology for Interactive Learning: Incorporate digital tools like tablets for literacy games and use digital portfolios to track student growth.
Communicating with Families: Maintain regular communication through newsletters and conferences, ensuring at least one annual meeting as per Minnesota Statutes §121A.16.

How can you get teaching experience for kindergarten in Minnesota?

Gaining teaching experience for kindergarten in Minnesota can be accomplished through a variety of pathways. Below are some strategies that will help you build the necessary skills and credentials:

Student Teaching Placements

Enroll in a full‑semester placement under a licensed mentor to observe and lead lessons across preschool and primary grades. Minnesota kindergarten student teaching programs typically span 12–16 weeks, offering urban and rural placement options to refine classroom management and adapt lesson plans for varied communities. Seek dual placements to experience socioeconomic and cultural diversity firsthand, preparing for a range of education sector jobs.

Substitute and Paraprofessional Roles

Apply for a short‑call substitute license to step in for absences and hone real‑time classroom management, and consider paraprofessional positions in Title I or special‑education settings—these roles count toward licensure hours while developing differentiated support skills through Minnesota kindergarten teaching internships. Tracking each hour and requesting mentor feedback accelerates skill acquisition.

Service-Learning and Tutoring Corps

Explore AmeriCorps‑backed Minnesota Reading Corps for paid literacy tutoring, volunteer as a Head Start or Early Head Start aide to accrue clinical credits, or join Grow Your Own cohorts for tuition assistance and guaranteed placements upon certification. Pair these roles with mentor debriefs to translate classroom insights into structured lesson improvements, document reflections in a teaching portfolio to support licensure applications, and reference.

What is the job outlook for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota?

The job outlook for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota is positive, with projected growth outpacing the national average. According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), teaching job opportunities are expected to increase by 3.7% from 2022 to 2032, compared to a 1% decline nationally. This growth is driven by factors such as stable birth rates and a continued emphasis on early childhood education.

However, challenges remain in terms of teacher retention and recruitment. The 2023 Teacher Supply and Demand Report highlights ongoing struggles to retain current educators and recruit new individuals to the profession. Despite these challenges, the demand for qualified kindergarten teachers remains strong, particularly in suburban and exurban districts. Additionally, rural areas may offer incentives such as housing stipends to attract educators.

How can kindergarten teachers develop expertise in inclusive classroom practices?

Kindergarten teachers can enhance their classroom expertise by pursuing targeted training in inclusive education strategies. This deeper knowledge helps educators effectively tailor instruction to meet the needs of all learners, including those with special educational needs. Advanced training programs focus on adaptive teaching methods, behavioral management, and differentiated instruction techniques that support a diverse student population. For example, teachers can advance their credentials and classroom skills by exploring a special education certification online Minnesota, which offers comprehensive coursework and practical insights.

How Do State Policies and Funding Impact Kindergarten Teaching Careers in Minnesota?

Legislative decisions and budget allocations directly influence classroom resources, teacher salaries, and long‐term career stability. Recent policy reforms have adjusted funding priorities that impact class sizes, instructional support, and professional growth opportunities. These changes also affect pathways to advanced certifications and career transitions, prompting educators to monitor state regulations and fiscal updates closely. For further insights into evolving requirements and role expansions, refer to preschool teacher qualifications in Minnesota.

How can you minimize the expense of obtaining your kindergarten teaching credential in Minnesota?

Financial considerations are a critical factor for prospective kindergarten teachers. Evaluating diverse certification pathways that align with personal financial situations can lead to a more sustainable start in your teaching career. Cost-effective programs, alternative licensure models, and credentialing support initiatives are strategies that not only expedite the certification process but also reduce upfront expenses. Researching state-funded programs and employer tuition assistance can also offer practical financial relief. Additionally, explore the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Minnesota to identify affordable options and resources tailored to your budget.

What distinguishes private school kindergarten teaching from public school roles in Minnesota?

Private school kindergarten positions often differ by offering smaller class sizes, tailored curricula, and alternative methods of student engagement that complement the broader public education framework. These roles may provide more flexibility in instructional approaches and innovative educational models, allowing educators to deepen their expertise in specialized pedagogical techniques. Exploring these alternative pathways can broaden career prospects and enhance long-term professional growth. For guidance on pursuing these opportunities, see how to become a private school teacher in Minnesota.

How can aspiring kindergarten teachers effectively prepare for licensure exams in Minnesota?

Aspiring educators should adopt a focused study regimen that aligns with the state’s exam blueprints while leveraging available support networks. Structured test-preparation workshops, paired study groups, and practice tests offered by professional organizations can streamline this process. Additionally, dedicated review of curriculum standards, classroom scenarios, and policy updates ensures targeted preparation for both pedagogy and subject matter questions. For further clarity on the broader certification process and related prerequisites, please review elementary school teacher requirements in Minnesota.

What are the challenges of being a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?

Kindergarten teachers in Minnesota face a unique set of challenges that require proactive planning and resourcefulness. The following challenges are common in navigating the role:

Staffing Gaps and Growing Class Sizes: A projected 11% shortfall in early childhood educators has led to larger class sizes and extended hours, particularly in urban areas where classes may have up to 22 students, reducing the amount of individual attention teachers can provide.
Increased Special Education and English Learner Needs: With 13.6% of kindergartners on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 8.5% English learners, teachers must create tailored lesson plans for diverse student needs.
Rural District Challenges: Rural districts face vacancy rates of up to 33%, along with outdated resources and a lack of dedicated support staff, putting more pressure on teachers to manage classrooms effectively.
Professional Development Requirements: Teachers are required to complete 75 hours of continuing education every five years, often at their own expense.
Heavy Workload and Stress: Many teachers report working 50–55 hours weekly, compounded by stress from last-minute curriculum changes and additional responsibilities.

What continuing education opportunities are available for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota?

Continuing education is essential for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota to maintain licensure and stay current with best practices. The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) requires 150 renewal credits every five years, with at least 50 from formal coursework. An online master's in education teaching can help meet these requirements while offering flexibility. Teachers should begin by reviewing PELSB guidelines to map out their credit accumulation over their licensure cycle.

School districts provide five professional development days per year, but many teachers pursue additional opportunities. Local educational service cooperatives host workshops focusing on topics like literacy and classroom management. Graduate courses at institutions like the University of Minnesota or Minnesota State University offer valuable credits, with one credit earned per hour of coursework. Teachers can also engage in online courses, webinars, and professional communities to earn credits while expanding their expertise.

How can you find a job as a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?

To find a job as a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota, a focused approach emphasizing licensure and strategic networking will help you secure a position. Here’s how to get started:

Secure Your Licensure: Obtain and maintain your K-6 teaching license along with your Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) endorsement through the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB).
Monitor Job Listings: Regularly check the PELSB Educator Job Board and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) WorkForce Centers for updated job listings.
Target High-Growth Areas: Focus on high-demand regions such as Rochester, Duluth, and the Minneapolis-St.–St. Paul Metro. Review HR pages to understand each district's needs and tailor your applications accordingly.
Tailor Your Application Materials: Customize your resume and cover letter for each district, ensuring they align with state benchmarks and procedural norms. Showcase specific teaching stories from your student-teaching experience to highlight your readiness for early childhood development careers.
Build a Digital Portfolio: Develop an online portfolio featuring lesson plans, student assessments, and strategies for family engagement that align with Minnesota Academic Standards.
Network and Attend Events: Join professional organizations like the Minnesota Education Association and the Minnesota Kindergarten Association for networking opportunities and mentorship. Attend hiring fairs at local teacher prep institutions, such as the University of Minnesota and St. Cloud State.

What are the best resources for kindergarten teachers in Minnesota?

Kindergarten teachers in Minnesota have access to various resources designed to enhance their teaching practices, support student development, and foster professional growth. The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) provides comprehensive support through various initiatives:

Kindergarten Resources: Offers guidance on kindergarten readiness, curriculum planning, and instructional strategies to ensure a high-quality learning experience for young children.
Kindergarten Fall Assessment (MnKFA): A tool to assess kindergarten students' early literacy and numeracy skills, helping educators tailor instruction to meet individual student needs.
Early Childhood Indicators of Progress (ECIPs): Minnesota's early learning standards that provide a framework for curriculum development and assessment in early childhood education.

Additionally, the Minnesota Kindergarten Association (MKA) serves as a professional organization offering:

Professional Development Opportunities: Organizes conferences, workshops, and networking events to support the continuous growth of kindergarten educators.
Advocacy for Developmentally Appropriate Practices: Promotes policies and practices that support the developmental needs of young children in kindergarten settings.

Here's What Kindergarten Teachers Have to Say About Their Career in Minnesota

Starting my career in Minnesota, I was amazed by how much the local workshops and professional development programs enhanced my teaching. The camaraderie I’ve found with other educators across the state fuels my passion every day. The progress my students make, especially in literacy, keeps me excited for what’s next. — Frances

After years in the classroom, I can confidently say that Minnesota’s focus on continuing education and community involvement has enriched my career. The programs available for teachers have revitalized my approach to social-emotional learning, and I’m proud to see my former students thrive in the Minneapolis school system. It’s an honor to contribute to their journey. — Paul

Teaching in Minnesota has allowed me to balance my personal and professional life in ways I never thought possible. The teacher prep partnership program helped me earn my licensure quickly and start making an impact in the classroom, while the flexibility of the system allows me to spend quality time with my children. I feel like I’m growing alongside my students. — Gina

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in Minnesota

Can you specialize in certain areas of early childhood education as a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota?

Yes, kindergarten teachers in Minnesota can specialize in specific areas of early childhood education, including special education, English to speakers of other languages, and reading. Graduate certificates in STEM, literacy, or arts integration are also available to deepen expertise. Teachers must complete a bachelor’s degree in early childhood or elementary education, along with practicum hours in their chosen specialization, before applying for corresponding endorsements through the Minnesota Board of Teaching.

Are there alternative routes to becoming a kindergarten teacher in Minnesota for career changers or non-traditional students?

Yes, Minnesota offers alternative licensure pathways for career changers and non-traditional students. These programs, which include post-baccalaureate and residency models, allow candidates to teach while completing certification. Programs often partner with local districts, offering mentorship and pedagogical training to help professionals transition into teaching, culminating in a Tier 3 license with Early Childhood authorization (birth–grade 3).

What types of schools or educational settings hire kindergarten teachers in Minnesota?

Kindergarten teachers in Minnesota can find opportunities in a variety of educational settings, including public school districts, private schools, charter schools, and early childhood centers. In addition to district-run public schools, there are charter schools, private schools with faith-based curricula, and specialized institutions such as Montessori and Waldorf schools. Teachers may also work in Head Start programs, community colleges, and child care centers focused on early childhood development.

What support systems are available for new kindergarten teachers in Minnesota during their first year?

New kindergarten teachers in Minnesota receive robust support systems during their first year, including mentoring, workshops, and peer collaboration. Many districts assign experienced mentors to guide novice teachers, offering classroom observations and feedback. Induction programs feature workshops on curriculum design and classroom management, while professional learning communities allow teachers to collaborate and share strategies, ensuring a strong foundation for success in the classroom.

References:

Athena Careers. (n.d.). Challenges and rewards of a career in early childhood education. Athena Careers.
CareerForce. (n.d.). Kindergarten teachers, except special education. CareerForce.
Illumine. (2025). Top 10 challenges preschool teachers face in 2025. Illumine.
MPR News. (2025, January 16). Minnesota schools shift teaching to boost kids' reading. MPR News.
Minneapolis Public Schools. (n.d.). Transition to kindergarten. Minneapolis Public Schools.
Resource Training & Solutions. (n.d.). Educational professionals. Resource Training & Solutions.
Saint Paul Public Schools. (n.d.). Pre-kindergarten. Saint Paul Public Schools.
The Family Partnership. (n.d.). 7 new Minnesota laws that early childhood education professionals should know about. The Family Partnership.
TNTP. (n.d.). Diversifying the teacher workforce with Teach Minnesota. TNTP.
TNTP. (n.d.). One solution to Minnesota’s teacher shortage: Alternative training. TNTP.