For many, the call to become a teacher starts at a very young age and results in a life-life dedication to being an educator. But making certain mistakes or engaging in specific conduct can keep you from getting a teacher’s license in the state of Florida.
What types of crimes prevent teaching licensure?
If you commit a crime, education law permits the state to deny you a teaching license. Common crimes that stand in the way of you obtaining a teaching license include:
- Murder or manslaughter
- Assault
- Crimes against children
- Sexual offenses
- Drug-related acts
- Driving under the influence
- Fraud
- Tax evasion
Can juvenile crime convictions affect your teaching license?
If you were convicted of committing a crime when you were a minor, that crime can prevent you from obtaining a teaching license. The conviction can still affect your licensure, even if your juvenile record has been expunged.
What ethical violations can affect your teaching license?
The state of Florida maintains strict ethical requirements for state teaching licenses. Violating one of the ethical guidelines can both prevent licensure and cause you to lose an existing teaching license.
The guidelines for ethical conduct may be set by the local school district, which is one reason prospective teachers should read their contracts thoroughly. Examples of ethical violations that may require you to fight for your teaching licensure include:
- You tell lies or defame your colleagues.
- Your resume or interview includes faulty information about your experiences or credentials.
- You accept gifts to sway your professional responsibilities.
- Your behavior includes discriminatory actions.
What do you need to know about conduct and your teaching license?
Becoming a teacher requires hard work and long hours. A simple mistake or lapse in judgment can threaten your efforts, thanks to Florida education law.