Below is a list of frequently asked questions about the teacher application process.

What if I applied last year?

We continually improve our teacher application through annual updates and changes. As such, all applicants who applied last year must reapply to be considered for teaching positions for the upcoming school year.
 

How do I start and return to an already started application?

Start a teacher application here, and navigate to the correct school year for which you would like to apply. Note you must register or log in before you can start your application.

Continue an application that you have already started here. This will bring you to the Candidate Dashboard. If needed, you may save your progress and return to complete the application at this website at a later time.
 

What if I have trouble completing the online application?

Please make sure you give yourself adequate time to complete each section of the application, keeping in mind that the Instructional Talent Acquisition and Retention team must review each section before candidates can move forward. If you do not fill in each required section completely, you will receive an error message prompting you to complete the missing sections. If you continue to have problems, whether technical or otherwise, please do not hesitate to email our team at [email protected].

 

What is the correct format for my resume?

Your resume MUST be in either Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) or Adobe (.pdf) format. We do not accept resumes in Microsoft Works, Rich-Text (.rtf) or Word Perfect format. Please also limit your resume to 1MB. View a guide with tips to create a successful resume.
 

After submitting my application, when will I hear back from DCPS?

Your application will be reviewed within 10-15 business days, and we will inform you of the status of your candidacy by email.

 

Once I’ve completed my application, when can I expect to learn the status of my application?

We will send all communication to the e-mail address you provide in your application within 10-15 business days. Please check your e-mail regularly for updates. Ensure you check your junk or spam folder if you haven't received an email from our team. If you have not received a status update within 15 business days, you may email us at [email protected] to request an update.

 

What if I’m in the TeachDC Recommended Pool but take a job elsewhere?

Please let the TInstructional Talent Acquisition and Retention team know that you would like to withdraw your application by logging into your Candidate Dashboard and clicking “Click here to withdraw your application.” You may also contact [email protected] with your name and “Withdraw” written in the subject line of the email.

 

Do you need to live in DC to work there?

No. DCPS does not have a housing requirement or require employees to live within the city limits.
 

Does DCPS offer relocation assistance?

No. DCPS does not offer relocation or housing assistance for teaching positions.
 

Do I need a teaching credential to apply to teach in DCPS?

All DCPS teachers need a valid teaching credential (license), issued by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). However, we are aware that many candidates will not have their OSSE-issued credential upon applying for a position. As such, candidates who meet at least one of the following conditions are eligible to advance through the teacher application screening process:  

Passing score on the Praxis Core basic skills exams or Praxis I (reading, writing, and math) or waiver via SAT/ACT/GRE/PCMAS or cumulative 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA 

OR 

Active and full OSSE-issued credential or active and full license from another state  

OR 

Enrollment in a teacher preparation program AND proof of registration for Praxis Core basic skills exams (reading, writing, and math), proof of registration for other state-equivalent, or waiver via SAT/ACT/GRE/PCMAS or cumulative 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA. 
 

I taught for DCPS previously and am no longer an employee. Do I need to re-apply?

All applicants must submit a new application, regardless of if they are a former DCPS employee. If you have any questions, please email our team at [email protected].

 

I am a DCPS teacher looking to transfer to another DCPS school. What should I do?

You will first need to complete a teacher application with your DCPS email address and navigate to the correct school year for which you would like to apply. You will need to register or log in before you can start your application. When applying, you will not be required to complete any of the evaluative portions of the application. 

Learn more about our internal transfer process here.

 

How can I become a better candidate for teacher positions with DC Public Schools?

DO include an updated resume and detailed answers to all questions. Your responses should demonstrate your knowledge of instruction and the subject area you wish to teach.

DO proofread your application materials before you submit them. Applications received with typographical and grammatical errors will adversely affect the applicant's candidacy.

DON’T send in your application via fax or mail. We do not accept hardcopy applications. All applications MUST be submitted via the online application.