Ohio preschool teacher

How To Become a Preschool Teacher in Ohio in 2026

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Ohio preschool teacher

Ohio is putting more money into programs, training teachers, and improving classrooms. These efforts mean more kids can get a great start in school, and more opportunities are opening up for teachers who want a rewarding career.

Here’s a guide focusing on how to become a preschool teacher in Ohio.

Related:

What Preschool Teachers Do in Ohio

Preschool teachers help kids ages three to five get ready for kindergarten. They plan fun, hands-on activities with art, music, and play while teaching important skills. They watch how each child is learning, guide them through daily routines, and check in with parents about progress. Teachers also work with other staff to keep the classroom supportive and welcoming.

In Ohio, preschool teachers are found in a variety of settings:

  • Public pre-K programs
  • Private preschools
  • Head Start
  • Faith-based centers
  • Childcare programs licensed by ODJFS

Ohio is making steady strides in early childhood education. In the 2022–23 school year, about 18,000 children were enrolled in state-funded preschool programs, giving more young learners a head start on their educational journey. While only a portion of 3- and 4-year-olds were enrolled, the state is actively working to expand access, especially for families who need it most.

For example, the National Institute for Early Education Research reports that Ohio spent $72 million on preschool programs, which is about $4,000 for each child. Even better, starting in 2023–24, the amount per child went up to $4,250, which is the first increase since 2009.

With the new investments and ongoing focus on teacher training and curriculum, the state is poised to continue improving preschool quality. And as preschool programs expand and improve, schools and childcare centers will need more qualified teachers to meet rising standards. Teachers with the right training and credentials will be in higher demand, especially in programs that earn top ratings from Ohio’s Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) system.

Becoming a preschool teacher in Ohio is straightforward, and the state offers clear steps to get started. Here are the steps on how to become a preschool teacher in Ohio.

Step 1: Meet Ohio’s Preschool Teaching Requirements

Ohio Department of Education & Workforce (DEW) Licensure Requirements

To become a licensed preschool teacher in Ohio, you’ll need to meet several requirements through the Ohio Department of Education (ODE). There are two main types of Ohio early childhood education license:

  1. Ohio Resident Educator License: for new teachers entering public schools.
  2. Pre-K–3 Early Childhood License: for teachers working with children from pre-K through third grade.

Both licenses require at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Your classes should include the following:

  • Child Development
  • Curriculum Planning
  • Classroom Assessment
  • Safety Procedures

Additionally, Ohio law mandates criminal background checks, including BCII and FBI fingerprinting, for anyone working with children.

Differences Between ODE-Licensed Programs & ODJFS-Certified Childcare Programs

Not all preschool teaching roles require an ODE license.

  • ODE-licensed programs, usually public schools, require full state licensure.
  • ODJFS-certified childcare centers may accept:
    • A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential
    • An associate’s degree in early childhood education

This flexibility makes it possible to start teaching in some private or community-based preschools without a full teaching license.

Step 2: Earn the Right Degree or Credential

Knowing which degree to earn is the first step in meeting the Ohio preschool teacher requirements 2026.

Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE)

With an associate degree, you can qualify for many preschool and childcare jobs in Ohio. These programs usually take two years and cover the following topics:

  • Child Development
  • Classroom Management
  • Early Learning Activities

Earning an associate degree often prepares you for the CDA credential, which many childcare programs accept.

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

For those aiming to work in public schools or higher-rated SUTQ programs (Levels 3–5), a bachelor’s degree is required. This four-year degree provides deeper training in:

  • Curriculum Design
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Assessment Strategies

It also makes you eligible for Pre-K–3 licensure, expanding your career opportunities.

Career-Changer Options

For career changers, they can pursue:

  • Online ECE programs allow you to complete your degree remotely.
  • Post-baccalaureate licensure programs are designed for people who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field.
  • Transition-to-teaching programs provide mentoring and classroom experience while completing licensing requirements.

Step 3: Complete Field Training, Student Teaching & Practicum Hours

Part of earning a preschool teacher certification in Ohio is getting hands-on experience in a classroom. It usually comes through:

  • Field training: hands-on classroom experience while completing coursework
  • Student teaching: a supervised placement where you lead lessons and routines
  • Practicum hours: shorter, structured classroom experiences under guidance from experienced teachers

During this time, you’ll practice things like:

  • Leading lessons and activities
  • Managing daily routines like snack time, play, and rest
  • Observing and assessing children’s development
  • Communicating with parents and other staff

Ohio’s programs make sure your experience lines up with the Ohio Learning Standards for Early Childhood. Once you’ve completed your practicum or student teaching, you’ll be ready to move on to earning the required credentials for your teaching career.

Step 4: Earn Required Credentials (CDA, Licensure, or Endorsements)

Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

The CDA credential is a well-known certification for preschool teachers. Many ODJFS-certified centers in Ohio require it.

Here’s how to get CDA in Ohio:

  1. Complete approved early childhood education coursework
  2. Gain at least 480 hours of hands-on classroom experience
  3. Create a teaching portfolio
  4. Be observed by a certified evaluator
  5. Pass the CDA exam

Ohio Pre-K Teaching License

To teach in Ohio public schools or higher-rated Step Up To Quality programs, you need a Pre-K–3 teaching license.

The steps to earn this early childhood teacher licensure in Ohio include:

  • Take licensure tests through the Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE).
  • Pass the OAE Early Childhood Education test.
  • Apply for the Ohio Resident Educator License, which starts your official teaching career.

Step 5: Apply for Jobs in Ohio Preschools

Preschool teachers are in demand across Ohio, especially in cities like Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, and Dayton.

The top employers include:

  • Public school districts
  • Head Start programs
  • YMCA and community-based childcare centers
  • Private preschool

Hiring decisions are often influenced by Ohio Step Up To Quality requirements. Programs with higher ratings usually prefer licensed teachers and may offer higher pay. When you apply, make sure to have a strong resume and teaching portfolio with lesson plans, student work samples, and observation reports to stand out.

Salary Expectations & Job Outlook for Preschool Teachers in Ohio (2026)

Average Preschool Teacher Salary in Ohio

According to ZipRecruiter, the preschool teacher salary in Ohio pays an average of $34,207.

  • Typical salary range: Most preschool teachers earn between roughly $28,500 and $38,000 per year.
  • Top earners: Some make as much as about $45,600 per year.

ZipRecruiter shows salaries in Ohio can go from as low as about $19,000 to over $51,000, depending on experience, location, and type of employer.

Job Growth Trends

Overall, preschool teacher jobs are expected to grow about 4 percent from 2024 to 2034 nationwide. In Ohio, growth could be even higher. Efforts to offer universal pre-K and more SUTQ-certified centers are increasing the need for qualified teachers. Rural and high-need areas especially need trained educators.

Optional Paths & Advancement Opportunities

Become a Lead Teacher

To become a lead teacher in a Level 4–5 SUTQ program, you may need:

  • A bachelor’s degree
  • State licensure
  • Several years of classroom
  • Continuing education courses

Move into Administrative Roles

Many preschool teachers advance to leadership positions such as:

  • Preschool director
  • Curriculum coordinator
  • SUTQ compliance manager

In these roles, you manage staff, oversee the curriculum, and make sure the program meets quality standards.

Earn Additional Certifications

Further certifications can enhance your career:

  • Special needs/intervention specialist endorsement
  • Reading endorsement
  • Early childhood leadership training

Earning these credentials can help you earn more and qualify for new job opportunities.

Cost, Timeline & What to Expect on Your Path to Becoming a Preschool Teacher

Here’s what it typically takes to complete Ohio early childhood education programs:

Associate Degree

  • Length: About 2 years
  • Cost: $5,000–$15,000 for in-state tuition
  • Courses covered:
    • Early Childhood Education Basics
    • Child Development
    • Curriculum Planning
    • Classroom Management

Bachelor’s Degree

  • Length: About 4 years
  • Cost: $15,000–$40,000 for in-state tuition
  • Courses covered:
    • Advanced Early Childhood Education
    • Teaching Methods
    • Assessment
    • Leadership
    • Specialized Areas

You can lower your costs with financial aid and Ohio’s TEACH scholarship.

Final Checklist — How to Become a Preschool Teacher in Ohio

Here’s a quick recap on how to become a preschool teacher in Ohio:

  1. Complete an approved early childhood education program. Earn your associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
  2. Pass the Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) tests. Demonstrate your knowledge of early childhood education.
  3. Submit state and federal background checks. Ensure you meet Ohio’s safety requirements for working with children.
  4. Apply for Ohio licensure. Get your Pre-K–3 teaching license or Resident Educator License.
  5. Complete the Resident Educator Program (if required). Gain supervised teaching experience while starting your career.

Meeting the Ohio Pre-K teacher qualifications takes commitment, but it is a rewarding career. You will help shape young minds, and Ohio’s growing early childhood education field offers many opportunities for dedicated teachers.