How To Become a Preschool Teacher in Arkansas in 2026

Why Preschool Teachers Are in High Demand in Arkansas (2026)

At present, Arkansas has 44 available workers for every 100 openings. Sadly, the workforce shortage also applies to the early childhood teaching workforce.

Low wages and high turnover are among the root causes. Then, there’s the growth of Pre-K, Head Start, and Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) programs. The combination worsens the teacher shortage across Arkansas.

As a result, more qualified preschool teachers are needed in 2026.

So, if you’re wondering how to become a preschool teacher in Arkansas, read on. We’ll cover the requirements, pathways, costs, and careers.

Related:

• Online Education Degrees: Arkansas
• Top Certifications for Early Childhood Educators
• Emergent Literacy Certification: Building a Strong Foundation for Young Readers
• Best Online Special Education Endorsement Programs

Overview: Requirements To Become a Preschool Teacher in Arkansas

Here are the Arkansas preschool teacher requirements for 2026 to know.

Education Requirements Overview

You have many educational pathways to choose from.

Certificate, Associate, and Bachelor’s Degree Pathways

Your choice between these pathways depends on your current education and career goals.

• Certificate programs provide foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level roles.
• Associate’s degree programs prepare students for hands-on teaching roles.
• Bachelor’s degree programs lead to eligibility for licensure.

Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) Requirements

The ADE standards for teachers planning to work in public school settings include:

• Completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program
• Pass required exams

Differences Between Childcare Teaching Roles and Public Preschool Roles

Childcare teaching roles often require either a certificate or an associate’s degree. Public preschool roles usually require a bachelor’s degree and a state license.

Key Arkansas Preschool Credentials

Arkansas offers these credentials for individuals pursuing an early childhood teaching career.

• Arkansas Birth–K Teaching License
• Arkansas Child Development Associate (CDA)
• Arkansas Technical Certificate in Early Childhood Education
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in ECE
• Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education (ECE)

Step-by-Step: How To Become a Preschool Teacher in Arkansas

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a preschool teacher in Arkansas.

Step 1 — Meet Minimum Education Requirements

Aspiring preschool teachers must meet one of these basic education requirements.

• A high school diploma or GED for entry-level childcare roles
• An undergraduate degree (AA or AS or BA, or BS in ECE)

A bachelor’s degree is a must for licensing through the ADE.

Step 2 — Choose Your Arkansas Certification Pathway

Then, it’s time to choose your Arkansas early childhood education certification pathway.

1. Birth–Kindergarten (B-K) Teaching License (Public Preschool/ABC)

The Arkansas Birth to Kindergarten license requires:

• Earning a bachelor’s degree in ECE or a related field
• Passing the required Praxis Core + Praxis ECE exams
• Completing the student teaching requirements
• Passing the ADE background check

2. Arkansas CDA Credential (Childcare Centers & Head Start)

The CDA credential requirements include:

• Completing 120 hours of ECE coursework
• Meeting the portfolio + observation requirement
• Completing the required 480 hours of field experience

3. Associate Degree Pathway (Community Colleges)

Community colleges offer the most affordable degree-seeking route. Average tuition and fees are $3,950/year for in-district students (EDI, 2025).

Aspiring preschool teachers can choose between an:

• AAS in ECE degree
• AA in ECE degree

Many community colleges offer a transfer pathway into bachelor’s degree programs.

4. Arkansas Alternative Teacher Certification (Career Changers)

Most alternative pathways are intended for career changers. These pathways also allow candidates to teach while working toward full teacher licensure.

The general eligibility requirements include:

• At least a bachelor’s degree
• Criminal background checks
• Child Maltreatment Registry check
• Passing scores on required Praxis exams
• A teaching position in an Arkansas public or charter school

Arkansas offers alternative routes for individuals without a bachelor’s degree in education.

• Arkansas Professional Educator Pathway (ArPEP)
• Arkansas Teacher Corps (ATC)
• Provisional Professional Teaching License (PPTL)
• Teach for America (TFA)

Depending on the alternative pathway, pedagogy coursework and professional training are a must.

Fast-track options (under two years) for 2026 include:

• ArPEP
• ATC
• iTeach Arkansas
• PPTL 

Consider national or out-of-state alternative providers, too.

Arkansas Requirements for Preschool Teachers (Licensing + Compliance)

Note these preschool teacher qualifications Arkansas imposes.

Arkansas Department of Education Requirements

Do you want to work in public programs or Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) classrooms? If yes, you must:

• Pass an FBI background check
• Pass a Child Maltreatment Registry check
• Earn passing scores in the Praxis Core and Praxis ECE tests 
• Complete the required coursework in ADE-approved ECE programs

Do you plan on working in Head Start or private childcare centers? If yes, here are the Arkansas CDA credential requirements.

• Complete 120 hours of formal ECE coursework
• Submit a portfolio and pass an observed teaching demonstration
• Complete 480 hours of supervised field experience in a childcare setting

Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) Licensing Requirements

Childcare centers must also comply with these DHS licensing requirements.

• Mandatory training hours in early childhood education and safety practices
• First aid, CPR and mandated reporter training
• Staff-to-child ratio requirements (i.e., ratios vary by age group) 

Also, center directors must have advanced credentials in early childhood administration. Their relevant management experience also comes into play.

Additional Skills That Improve Hiring

If you want to increase your employability, consider gaining:

• Behavior management skills
• Trauma-informed care competencies
• Special education familiarity
• Bilingual/ESL skills

Many community colleges and universities offer certificate programs in these areas.

What You’ll Study: Early Childhood Coursework in Arkansas

Early childhood education programs in Arkansas have unique features. But they also share many similarities, as discussed below.

Core ECE Courses

Students learn the foundational principles and practices of:

• Child development
• Classroom management
• Curriculum planning
• Pre-literacy and numeracy
• Health, nutrition, and safety

The didactic courses prepare students for the hands-on learning experiences. 

Clinical Experience and Practicum Requirements

These hands-on learning experiences prepare students for the real-world challenges. Students must complete the Arkansas-approved field placement expectations. The supervised classroom hours must be in public preschools or licensed childcare centers.

The B-K licensure programs usually include student teaching experiences, too. These must be for a full semester in a B-K classroom under ADE-approved supervision.

Students perform these tasks during practicum:

• Implement lesson plans
• Assess learning outcomes
• Observe child development

In short, they gain real-world classroom management experience.

Online vs. In-Person ECE Degrees in Arkansas

Working adults enrolled in online programs enjoy:

• Flexible schedules
• Quality education at more affordable costs
• Access to student support services

Consider programs offered by UA Little Rock, UCA, ASU, SAU, and Arkansas Tech.

How Long It Takes To Become a Preschool Teacher in Arkansas

It differs depending on the pathway. But the benefits can outweigh the time commitment.

Timelines by Pathway

• CDA → 6–9 months
• Associate degree → 18–24 months
• Bachelor’s degree (B-K licensure) → 4 years
• Alternative certification → 1–2 years

Accelerated Options for 2026

If you want to take the fast track route, consider these options.

• Online ECE programs
• Competency-based courses
• Transfer-friendly community college pathways

Cost of Becoming a Preschool Teacher in Arkansas

The return on investment is fairly good considering the affordable costs.

Tuition Estimates

Go for community colleges if you want low-cost yet quality programs. Consider public universities in Arkansas for their bachelor’s degree programs. In-state rates vary from $8,000 to $12,000/year.

Certification & Licensing Fees

Factor in additional fees for:

• Background checks ($50-$75 each check)
• Praxis exams ($90-$200 depending on the test)
• ADE licensure fees ($50-$100)

Ways To Lower the Cost

Apply for these financial aid options:

• TEACH Arkansas scholarships
• Pell Grants and FAFSA
• Employer tuition assistance

Consider apprenticeships in childcare centers to reduce costs, too.

Salary & Job Outlook for Preschool Teachers in Arkansas (2026)

Your Arkansas preschool teacher salary will vary based on your education and experience.

Salary Estimates

But here’s a basic guide to get started on salary expectations:

Earning an Arkansas teacher certification in early childhood is only the beginning. Experience and performance matter, too.

Arkansas Regions With Highest Demand

Look for opportunities in these areas:

• Little Rock
• Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville, Bentonville)
• Fort Smith
• Jonesboro

Career Advancement Opportunities

Advance into these higher-level roles:

• Lead teacher
• Center director
• Instructional coordinator (with graduate degree)
• Special education endorsement roles

Top Arkansas Employers Hiring Preschool Teachers

Your skills as a preschool teacher are in high demand in these workplaces.

• Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) Programs
• Head Start and Early Head Start centers
• Public school districts
• Faith-based preschools
• Private childcare centers
• Nonprofits like Boys & Girls Clubs, community agencies

Tips for Succeeding as a Preschool Teacher in Arkansas

Being proactive is a strong foundation.

1. Build a strong teaching portfolio.
2. Learn the Arkansas Early Learning Standards.
3. Join the Arkansas AECA (early childhood organization).
4. Earn specialized training (SPED, ESL, behavior).
5. Continue professional development yearly.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Path to Become a Preschool Teacher in Arkansas

Asking how to get an early childhood degree in Arkansas is a good start. Then, enroll in an ADE-approved program and pass a background check to start your journey.

Remember, too, that each pathway fits different goals. But whether you’re a new student or a career changer, you can enter the field.