2026 How to Become a Physical Education Teacher in Arkansas

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Arkansas has seen a steady demand for physical education teachers, with over 1,200 jobs across public schools as of recent data. Choosing this career means making a real impact by promoting health and fitness among young students while enjoying a stable job market in the state. Plus, schools in Arkansas often offer supportive communities and resources to help teachers thrive.

This article breaks down how to become a physical education teacher in Arkansas, crafted by career planning experts. It covers everything from education requirements to licensing steps, giving readers clear guidance to pursue this rewarding path with confidence and ease.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Physical Education Teacher in Arkansas

Get your bachelor’s degree in physical education or a related field—Arkansas requires this as the baseline for teaching certification.
Pass the Arkansas Praxis exams, including the general and physical education tests, to meet state licensure standards.
Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program with student teaching experience; around 15% of Arkansas educators work in PE, so gaining hands-on practice helps a lot.

What are the education requirements to become a physical education teacher in Arkansas?
What skills are essential for physical education teachers in Arkansas?
Do PE teachers in Arkansas need a teaching license?
How do you get certified as a PE teacher in Arkansas?
Can out-of-state teachers transfer their license to Arkansas for PE teaching?
How long does it take to become a PE teacher in Arkansas?
How Can You Optimize Your Certification Timeline as a PE Teacher in Arkansas?
How much does it cost to become a PE teacher in Arkansas?
Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in Arkansas?
Is there demand for physical education teachers in Arkansas?
What is the average salary of a PE teacher in Arkansas?

What are the education requirements to become a physical education teacher in Arkansas?

Formal education plays a big role in getting ready to be a PE teacher in Arkansas. It makes sure future teachers know how to create effective physical education programs and promote student wellness in schools. Having the right training helps them meet today’s standards and cater to different student needs.

Here’s a look at the education requirements for PE teacher in Arkansas:

Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education or Related Field: Most candidates need to earn a bachelor’s degree in physical education, kinesiology, exercise science, or a similar area from an accredited college. These programs usually cover topics like motor skill development and adapted physical education within a K-12 setting.
Completion of a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Future teachers must finish a teacher prep program approved by the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. These programs focus on teaching methods, curriculum planning, and assessment designed specifically for K-12 PE.
Field Experience and Student Teaching Internship: Hands-on experience is important, so all candidates participate in supervised fieldwork and a student teaching internship. This real-world practice helps connect theory with classroom teaching under the guidance of experienced mentors.
Minimum GPA Requirement: Arkansas PE programs typically require students to maintain a minimum GPA, often around 2.7 to 3.0, to show they can handle the academic and professional demands of teaching.

If you’re curious about jobs for people with education degrees besides teaching, that link is a great resource to explore options beyond the classroom.

What skills are essential for physical education teachers in Arkansas?

To truly connect with students and help them build healthy habits for life, physical education teachers in Arkansas need a specific set of skills. These abilities help manage a classroom full of diverse learners and keep everyone motivated and safe. Getting a handle on these essential physical education teacher skills in Arkansas is a key step for anyone serious about making a difference in this field.

Here are some of the Arkansas PE teacher competencies and requirements that make all the difference:

Comprehensive Knowledge of Fitness and Health: Knowing the ins and outs of how the body moves, stays healthy, and stays safe is a must. Teachers have to be comfortable with everything from motor skills to first aid and mental wellness to ensure students can participate fully and confidently.
Effective Communication: Being clear and adaptable with instructions helps reach every student, no matter their learning style or ability. This skill also ensures safety and keeps students on the right track during physical activities.
Adaptability and Classroom Management: No two students are the same, so teachers must be flexible when planning lessons and ready to use different tools and approaches. This also means managing time, space, and equipment efficiently to create a supportive environment for all.
Leadership and Professionalism: PE teachers don’t just teach skills; they set examples. Showing respect, teamwork, and professionalism, while staying current through ongoing learning, builds trust and encourages positive behavior in students.

If you’re exploring options to start or boost your teaching career, consider checking out some of the best online teaching schools that can help you meet these standards.

Skills that high school students develop through physical education

Do PE teachers in Arkansas need a teaching license?

Licensing is a big deal in Arkansas because it helps keep physical education teaching up to high standards and ensures students get solid, reliable instruction. Having state requirements means PE teachers aren’t just picked randomly—they’re trained and tested to deliver quality education that supports students’ health and learning.

In public schools across Arkansas, you definitely need a state-issued teaching license to teach PE. That means finishing a bachelor’s degree, completing an approved teacher prep program, passing exams like the Praxis II for Health & Physical Education, and doing student teaching.

They also require ongoing professional development and background checks. This system makes sure public school PE teachers have the right skills and knowledge to help students stay active and healthy throughout their school years.

Private and charter schools, on the other hand, often have more relaxed rules. They might not require you to have that official state license—some hire based on degrees, coaching experience, or other certifications. Charter schools especially have more freedom in staffing choices.

This means if you’re starting out or switching careers, private and charter schools might offer more chances to get your foot in the door. But keep in mind, not having a license can limit opportunities if you want the most stable career options, especially in the public school system where licensed teachers are in demand.

How do you get certified as a PE teacher in Arkansas?

Getting certified as a physical education teacher in Arkansas is a key step to making sure you're ready to help students stay active and healthy. Certification means you’ve met important state standards, and you’re equipped to deliver quality PE instruction that supports student wellness.

Here’s a straightforward look at the main steps you’ll need to take to get certified.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education or Related Field: Start by completing a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, focusing on physical education, exercise science, or a similar area to build a solid foundation.
Complete a State-Approved Teacher Prep Program: Next, finish a program approved by the Arkansas Department of Education, which includes coursework and at least 60 days of student teaching to gain real classroom experience.
Fulfill Professional Development Requirements: You’ll need to complete specific training hours on topics like child safety, teen suicide prevention, and dyslexia awareness to meet state guidelines.
Pass Required State Exams: Take and pass tests such as the Praxis Core and Praxis II for Health & Physical Education, plus an assessment on teaching principles or an approved substitute assessment.
Complete Background Checks: Get clearance through background checks by Arkansas authorities, the FBI, and child maltreatment registries to ensure student safety.
Apply for Arkansas Educator Licensure: After completing all the steps, submit your application with transcripts, test scores, and other paperwork to officially become licensed.

One Arkansas PE teacher I spoke with, who graduated locally, shared how the process felt challenging but rewarding. He said, “Preparing for the exams was intense, especially balancing study and student teaching, but knowing it all leads to making a difference kept me motivated.”

He found the professional development trainings enlightening, especially understanding topics like teen suicide awareness. “It made me realize how much more than just sports this job is about,” he reflected. This personal journey helped him not only to get certified but also to feel confident stepping into his role as a PE teacher in Arkansas public schools.

Can out-of-state teachers transfer their license to Arkansas for PE teaching?

Yes, Arkansas does allow out-of-state teachers to transfer their licenses for physical education positions through a process called licensure by reciprocity. This means the state recognizes teaching licenses from other states, but it’s not just a simple switch.

You’ll need to submit a reciprocity packet including an online application with a $75 fee, official transcripts, your current or recently expired teaching license, proof of passing required tests like Praxis, and evidence of professional development.

If you’ve got at least three years of licensed teaching experience, you’re generally good to go without extra testing. If not, Arkansas might ask you to take their state exams before granting a standard five-year license. They might even offer a provisional license while you get everything sorted. One nice thing: PE teachers don’t have to take the Arkansas History course, which is required for some other subjects.

So, for PE teachers moving to Arkansas, these rules mean a mostly smooth transition if you have solid experience and a valid license. You might breeze through without extra hoops. But if you’re newer to the profession or your certification came through an alternative path, some extra testing or proof that your qualifications meet Arkansas standards may be required.

The provisional license option can help you start working sooner while fulfilling any missing requirements. It’s a flexible approach that helps fill teaching needs across Arkansas, especially in rural or high-demand areas. Military families get an expedited process too, which is a huge plus.

Overall, while the paperwork and tests might take some time to handle, the reciprocity process aims to get you into the classroom as efficiently as possible so you can keep doing what you love teaching PE in Arkansas.

How long does it take to become a PE teacher in Arkansas?

The time it takes to become a physical education teacher in Arkansas can vary depending on the education pathway you choose, the certification process, and the hands-on teaching experience required.

Whether you pursue a traditional bachelor’s degree or an alternative licensure, understanding the physical education teacher education timeline Arkansas can help you plan your journey effectively.

Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education: Typically, this is a four-year commitment at an accredited Arkansas university. The degree covers essential courses in physical education content and teaching methods, with opportunities for early field experiences to get you familiar with real classroom environments.
Teacher Preparation Program and Student Teaching: Embedded in the degree, this usually takes about one semester and includes a full-time student teaching internship. It’s your chance to gain practical experience working under a mentor in both elementary and secondary settings, sharpening your skills in lesson planning and classroom management.
State Certification and Praxis II Exam: After all coursework and practicum are done, you’ll take the Praxis II: Health & Physical Education exam, which requires a passing score of 155. Scheduling and preparation vary, but many candidates complete this in their final year. A background check is also part of the licensing process, which may add some extra weeks.
Alternative Licensure Pathways: If you already hold an Arkansas teaching license in another subject, you can transition to PE through the Additional Licensure Plan (ALP). This typically takes up to three years but can be shorter if you meet all requirements quickly.

For anyone exploring options, it helps to see a ranking of most affordable online education degree programs that may support your physical education studies. Overall, if you’re wondering how many years to become a PE teacher in Arkansas, most traditional candidates spend about four to five years on this path, while those with existing teaching credentials could move faster.

How Can You Optimize Your Certification Timeline as a PE Teacher in Arkansas?

Applicants can streamline the transition into the classroom by strategically selecting accredited programs and alternative certification pathways that align with their career goals. Leveraging focused preparatory courses, intensive workshops, or expedited student teaching placements may reduce downtime while ensuring compliance with state requirements. For a detailed perspective on duration planning and program options, review how long does it take to become a teacher in Arkansas.

How much does it cost to become a PE teacher in Arkansas?

Becoming a physical education teacher in Arkansas involves several costs that add up over your education and certification journey. Tuition, testing, and certification fees all play a role in the total financial investment you'll need to make.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a rundown of the main expenses involved.

Tuition for Bachelor’s Degree: You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in physical education or a related field from an accredited school. In-state tuition at public Arkansas universities usually falls between $7,000 and $10,000 per year, so the total over four years is around $28,000 to $40,000. Private colleges tend to charge more.
PE Teacher Preparation Program Expenses: Before you can teach, you must complete a state-approved teacher preparation program. These programs may tack on extra costs for things like student teaching and professional development, typically ranging from $500 to $2,000 depending on where you enroll.
Licensing and Exam Fees: Passing exams like the Praxis II Physical Education test is required, with fees of about $120 to $150 each. On top of that, the Arkansas physical education teacher certification fees include a $75 application charge when you apply for your teaching license.
Additional Costs (Books, Background Checks, etc.): Books and materials can cost between $800 and $1,200 each year. Background checks and fingerprinting legally required by Arkansas usually add another $50 to $75, plus any other minor fees for workshops or mentoring.

Carefully budgeting for these expenses is key, especially if you’re comparing options or considering alternate paths. If you’re also curious about other affordable degrees beyond teaching, check out this helpful resource on what is the cheapest online library science masters degree.

Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in Arkansas?

Paying for college as a physical education teaching student in Arkansas can feel overwhelming, but luckily, there are several scholarships and financial aid options to lighten the load. These resources help cover tuition, fees, and other costs so you can focus more on your studies and training.

Federal and State Financial Aid: Programs like the Pell Grant and Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship offer financial support to eligible students pursuing teacher education, including PE majors.
Institutional Scholarships: Many colleges in Arkansas provide scholarships specifically for education majors, such as physical education teaching students, helping to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Teaching Grants: The TEACH Grant offers up to $4,000 a year for students planning to work in high-need fields, which can include physical education.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: The Federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program may forgive up to $17,500 in student loans for teachers serving at low-income schools for five years.

When I spoke with a PE teacher from Arkansas who graduated from a local university, she shared how the Arkansas Teacher Academy Scholarship was a game-changer. “It covered a huge part of my tuition every semester,” she said, “but the commitment to teach in an Arkansas public school felt like a promise I was proud to make.”

Navigating the scholarship application wasn’t always easy, but having that financial support made her journey smoother and less stressful. She emphasized that these scholarships don’t just help with money—they motivate future teachers to stay connected to their communities.

Is there demand for physical education teachers in Arkansas?

The demand for physical education teachers in Arkansas is influenced by a mix of factors like school enrollment trends, state health programs, and retirement rates among current educators. As schools push for better student wellness to tackle rising obesity rates, the need for qualified PE teachers gets even stronger. At the same time, many teachers leaving the profession create ongoing vacancies, especially in schools with changing student numbers.

Most of the demand for Arkansas physical education teacher job openings is in public schools, particularly in districts identified as high-need or underserved. These areas face the toughest hiring challenges and lowest retention rates, making PE teaching positions there especially plentiful.

Though job growth nationally for PE teachers is modest, Arkansas stands out due to its significant and persistent shortages. Middle schools often have the biggest staffing gaps, and rural or lower-income districts struggle more to hold onto certified PE teachers. Because of this, over 375 PE teaching jobs were posted recently across Arkansas, covering everything from preschool through secondary levels.

This combination of health-focused initiatives, steady teacher turnover, and less-than-sufficient new teacher production means job prospects for aspiring physical education teachers in Arkansas are actually better than you might expect from national trends.

If you’re open to working in high-need schools or flexible on location, your chances for a rewarding career go way up. For those deciding on how to enter this field, checking out a list of easiest teaching degree programs can be a great first step to finding the right path forward.

PE teacher jobs expected in the next decade

What is the average salary of a PE teacher in Arkansas?

Physical educationIf you’re thinking about pursuing a career as a PE teacher in Arkansas, it’s important to understand how salary plays a key role in your financial stability and career choices. Salary affects not only your day-to-day living but also your long-term growth and satisfaction in the profession.

Here are the main factors that influence PE teacher salaries in Arkansas:

Years of Experience: Starting salaries usually range from $30,000 to $40,000, but with time and experience, teachers can earn over $70,000, and in some rare cases, even exceed $120,000.
Education Level: Getting advanced degrees or certifications often means moving up on the pay scale, as many districts reward higher education with better pay.
School Type (Public vs. Private): Public schools usually offer higher and more consistent salaries, while private schools may have lower pay and fewer benefits.
Geographic Location: Urban areas like Little Rock tend to offer better pay compared to rural districts, which often have tighter budgets.

Overall, the salary for PE teachers in Arkansas varies widely depending on these factors, reflecting both the financial challenges and the rewarding nature of teaching physical education in the state.

What Do Physical Education Teachers in Arkansas Say About Their Career?

Completing my physical education program at Little Rock Academy gave me the hands-on experience and deep understanding of Arkansas’s diverse student needs that I needed to thrive. Starting my career in a local school really opened my eyes to how important PE is in developing lifelong healthy habits among kids. The job stability in this field is reassuring, and I truly love seeing students grow stronger both physically and in confidence year after year. Being part of a community that values wellness motivates me every single day to keep pushing forward. Janice
Beginning my career as a PE teacher in an Arkansas school has been a rewarding journey full of unexpected challenges and unique opportunities. The state’s natural environment offers countless ways to engage students beyond the classroom, from outdoor activities to local sports traditions. Reflecting on my path, I appreciate how this profession has fostered my own personal growth as a mentor and leader. There is something deeply fulfilling about contributing to the well-being and teamwork skills of young people in our communities. Cameron
Professional development opportunities in Arkansas's education system have played a huge role in advancing my PE teaching career. After graduating from Ozark Hills School, I quickly realized the wealth of resources and support available for physical educators here. Arkansas’s emphasis on student health and well-being aligns perfectly with my passion for empowering kids to take control of their fitness and lifestyle choices. The chance to continually improve my skills keeps me motivated and confident about the impact I can have long term. Ferdinand

References:

The job market for physical education teachers in the United States - CareerExplorer https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/physical-education-teacher/job-market/
How to Become a PE Teacher in Arkansas | Requirements for PE Teacher Jobs in AR https://www.peteacheredu.org/arkansas/
Teaching K-12 Physical Education and Health (PHED) < University of Arkansas https://catalog.uark.edu/undergraduatecatalog/collegesandschools/collegeofeducationandhealthprofessions/teachingk12physicaleducationhealth/
Best Value Bachelor's Degree Colleges for Physical Education Teaching & Coaching in Arkansas (With Aid) - College Factual https://www.collegefactual.com/majors/education/teacher-education-and-development/physical-education-teaching-and-coaching/rankings/best-value-avg-aid/bachelors-degrees/southeast/arkansas/
Bachelor of Science in Education, Physical Education Teacher Education — Undergraduate Bulletin 2014-2015 https://uca.edu/ubulletin2014/colleges-departments-programs/college-of-health-and-behavioral-sciences/department-of-kinesiology-and-physical-education/bse-physical-education-teacher-education/
Physical Education and Health K-12 | Academics | Southern Arkansas University https://web.saumag.edu/academics/program/k-12-physical-education-and-health/
Health and Physical Education Training Program - Arkansas JobLink https://www.arjoblink.arkansas.gov/etp/public/institution_programs/482427
If you’re also curious about other affordable degrees beyond teaching, check out this helpful resource on . https://research.com/degrees/most-affordable-online-masters-degrees-in-library-science
pe teacher Salary in arkansas — Average Salary https://www.talent.com/salary
Division of Elementary and Secondary Education - Offices - Educator Effectiveness and Licensure - Pathways to Licensure: Alternate Routes https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/educator-effectiveness/pathways-to-licensure

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Physical Education Teacher in Arkansas

Can you become a PE teacher in Arkansas without a teaching degree?

In Arkansas, you generally cannot become a certified physical education (PE) teacher without a teaching degree. The state requires candidates to hold at least a bachelor’s degree in education with an emphasis on physical education or a related field to obtain a teaching license.

However, there may be alternative certification routes for individuals with a degree in a non-education field, but these still require candidates to complete specific teacher preparation programs and pass licensing exams. Therefore, while you might start the process without a teaching degree, acquiring proper certification and completing requisite coursework is essential to become a licensed PE teacher in Arkansas.

Does Arkansas offer alternative certification for PE teachers?

Arkansas does offer alternative certification pathways for aspiring Physical Education (PE) teachers, allowing individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree but lack traditional teacher preparation to enter the profession. Candidates typically need to complete an approved alternative certification program, which includes coursework and supervised teaching experience tailored to meet state licensure requirements.

This route provides a flexible option for career changers or those with a background in physical education who wish to become certified educators without pursuing a traditional degree in education. Overall, Arkansas supports alternative certification to help address teacher shortages while maintaining standards for quality instruction in PE.

What benefits do physical education teachers in Arkansas receive?

Physical education teachers in Arkansas enjoy several key benefits that make the profession rewarding beyond the classroom. These educators typically receive competitive salaries that align with state-funded school districts, alongside comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans through the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System.

In addition, PE teachers benefit from structured work schedules with summers and holidays off, allowing for a healthy work-life balance and opportunities for professional development. These advantages, combined with the chance to promote student wellness and physical activity, make a career in physical education teaching in Arkansas both fulfilling and stable.

Can PE teachers in Arkansas teach other subjects with additional endorsements?

In Arkansas, physical education (PE) teachers are generally authorized to teach only within their area of endorsement, which is specifically PE or health and physical education. To teach subjects outside of physical education, individuals must obtain additional endorsements corresponding to those subjects.

Without these extra endorsements, PE teachers are not permitted to teach other academic subjects. Therefore, if you wish to expand your teaching opportunities beyond PE in Arkansas, pursuing additional endorsements is essential to meet state certification requirements and ensure compliance with school district policies.