As Texas prepares to restrict the use of uncertified teachers in public schools, alternative certification pathways are becoming a critical entry point into the classroom.

In recent years, more individuals have entered teaching through nontraditional routes, often transitioning from careers in healthcare, mental health, or business. These alternative pathways have been especially vital in addressing teacher shortages across the state.

Legislation passed in 2015 allowed schools to hire educators without formal classroom training, provided they held college degrees and were working toward certification. Since then, the percentage of uncertified teachers in Texas has more than tripled — from 3.8% in the 2019–20 school year to 12% in 2024–25, according to the Texas Education Agency.

Some school districts report even higher rates. One district in Galveston County notes nearly 24% of its teachers are uncertified. To address this, districts have partnered with alternative certification programs and provided support such as exam preparation courses at no cost.

A newly proposed bill, House Bill 2, would ban uncertified teachers from leading core subject classes. If passed, K-5 math and reading teachers must be certified by fall 2026, with all other core subject teachers required to meet the standard by fall 2027.

While alternative programs offer flexibility, they can also be costly. Some certification programs run upwards of $6,000, and passing required exams — particularly the Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) exam — is often a significant hurdle.

Despite financial and academic challenges, school districts are continuing efforts to reduce uncertified teacher numbers, anticipating the law’s passage. Whether or not the bill is signed into law, the emphasis is shifting toward fully credentialed educators in every classroom.