Explore Washington, DC
As part of a comprehensive reform effort to become the fastest improving urban school district in America, DCPS intends to have the highest-performing, best paid, most satisfied, and most honored educator force in the nation.
Why move here?
If you’ve ever visited Washington, DC, you know the memorials, free museums, and iconic government buildings are awe-inspiring. But, away from the National Mall and out and away from Capitol Hill, almost 700,000 people from all walks of life call this city home. The District’s citizens are smart, civic-minded and diverse, which is why recent college grads have consistently made DC their destination of choice to launch careers.
In addition to being a very walkable and bike-friendly city, Washington, DC, has a highly regarded subway system called Metro with bus routes that span the District, Maryland, and Virginia. A car is not needed to get around.
Teacher salaries that shine
DCPS Teachers are among the highest paid in the nation with benefits to match. Top teachers can earn more $100,000 in salary and bonuses by their fourth year at DCPS, and win awards of up to $10,000 for classroom excellence.
Get around with ease
In addition to being a very walkable and bike-friendly city, Washington, DC, has a highly regarded subway system called Metro and bus routes that span the District, Maryland, and Virginia. A car is not needed to get around.
Explore Our Schools
Grow your career at DC Public Schools
SUCCESS STORIES
Our Educators
My experience teaching at Whitlock Elementary School has been wonderful. From the day I started serving this culturally wealthy community I was welcomed with open arms.Whitlock Elementary is a place where all students can excel academically, socially, and emotionally. I’m proud to belong to a community where students, families, and staff members feel safe, valued, cared for, engaged, and respected every time they enter the school building.
– Alejandro Diagranados, Elementary Teacher at Whitlock Elementary School and 2021 Teacher of the Year
DCPS Teaching FAQ’s
Do I need to have a license 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). We are aware that many candidates will not have their OSSE-issued credential upon applying for a position. As such, candidates who meet the minimum eligibility criteria to apply can still advance through the teacher screening process.
How do I obtain a teaching license in Washington DC?
All teacher credentialing in the District of Columbia is handled through the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). Please review the licensure qualifications and application process set by OSSE. OSSE is a separate organization that handles licensure for DC Public Schools, and we review applications for teacher candidates who can obtain a teaching license through OSSE.
I have a teaching license from another state. Do I still need to apply for a DC license?
Yes. If you currently hold a license from another state, you will have to obtain a DC license to teach for DCPS. More information for licensure candidates who hold an active full teacher credential that is in good standing in another state is available here (see Option 3).
Can I renew an expired teacher credential?
Standard level teacher and administrative services credentials may be renewed in accordance with the renewal options listed at this website. Additionally, existing “Regular II” credential holders with credentials that are due to expire in upcoming months may apply for renewal and be issued the new “standard” level credential based upon the renewal options listed below. Initial teacher and administrative services credentials may not be renewed.
I do not have a degree in education. Can I still apply?
Yes, but you must at least have your bachelor's degree and meet the minimum eligibility criteria. Candidates who meet the minimum eligibility criteria can advance through the teacher application. Please note that all candidates should be working toward securing their teaching credential, as candidates will not receive an official offer letter until their credential has been issued by OSSE OR until they can provide proof of submission of a complete licensure application to OSSE.
I currently have an international license. Does DCPS sponsor international teachers?
Currently, DCPS does not sponsor teachers with work visas. However, DCPS sponsors H-1B visas for teachers once they are selected for hire by individual schools.
Do I need a license to be a substitute teacher?
As of March 2016, the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) will no longer issue substitute teacher licenses. In order to be considered for the position, candidates must hold a valid bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Candidates must submit official transcripts if selected for the substitute teacher position. Foreign transcripts must be evaluated by an accredited credential evaluation agency. For more information on the substitute teacher position, please visit dcps.dc.gov/page/substitute or email @email.