2026 How to Become a Physical Education Teacher in Louisiana

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Louisiana offers promising opportunities for aspiring physical education teachers, with employment in this field projected to grow by 7% over the next decade, reflecting a rising emphasis on student health and wellness statewide.

The demand for qualified educators in physical education is particularly robust in public schools, driven by initiatives to combat childhood obesity and promote active lifestyles.

Pursuing this career in Louisiana is rewarding due to competitive salaries relative to regional cost of living and strong community support for physical education programs.

This article, prepared by experts in career planning, provides a comprehensive guide on how to become a physical education teacher in Louisiana. It delivers essential information on education requirements, certification processes, and practical steps to launch a successful teaching career in this specialized field.

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

Candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in physical education or a related field from an accredited institution.
Completion of the Louisiana Teacher Preparation Program and passing the Praxis exams specific to physical education are mandatory for certification.
Ongoing professional development is required to maintain certification, reflecting Louisiana’s commitment to high standards amid a growing demand for qualified physical education teachers.

What are the education requirements to become a physical education teacher in Louisiana?
What skills are essential for physical education teachers in Louisiana?
Do PE teachers in Louisiana need a teaching license?
How do you get certified as a PE teacher in Louisiana?
Can out-of-state teachers transfer their license to Louisiana for PE teaching?
How long does it take to become a PE teacher in Louisiana?
How much does it cost to become a PE teacher in Louisiana?
Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in Louisiana?
Is there demand for physical education teachers in Louisiana?
What is the average salary of a PE teacher in Louisiana?
How Can Continuing Professional Development Enhance Your PE Teaching Career in Louisiana?

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

A solid formal education is vital for preparing physical education teachers who can develop effective programs promoting student wellness and physical literacy. In Louisiana, meeting rigorous academic standards ensures teachers are ready to support lifelong healthy habits among diverse student populations.

The following outlines the education requirements for PE teacher certification Louisiana candidates must fulfill:

Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education or Related Field: Prospective teachers must obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, majoring in physical education, kinesiology, health, or related discipline. This degree builds essential knowledge in exercise science, human movement, and curriculum development specific to physical education.
Completion of a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Candidates must complete a teacher preparation program endorsed by the Louisiana Department of Education. These programs combine educational theory with instructional strategies and practical experiences tailored to teaching PE effectively in Louisiana schools.
Subject-Specific Coursework in Health and Kinesiology: At least 15 credit hours of coursework related to health, kinesiology, or physical education are typically required. These studies focus on anatomy, physiology, motor skills, and promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyles for students.
Supervised Student Teaching or Internship: Hands-on experience through supervised student teaching or internships allows candidates to apply their knowledge in real classroom settings under the guidance of experienced mentors.
Minimum GPA Requirement: Most preparation programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.2 or higher for admission. Conditional acceptance may be offered when candidates demonstrate academic progress despite lower initial GPAs.

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What skills are essential for physical education teachers in Louisiana?

To succeed as a physical education teacher in Louisiana, mastering a diverse set of skills is indispensable for engaging students, fostering healthy habits, and managing classrooms with varied abilities and backgrounds. These skills are vital for promoting physical literacy and motivating students to maintain active lifestyles.

Below are some of the essential physical education teacher skills in Louisiana that contribute to effective teaching and student development:

Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Effective communication is crucial when explaining complex movement techniques and safety guidelines to students with differing needs. PE teachers must offer clear feedback and cultivate a supportive environment by maintaining open channels with students, parents, and colleagues, which enhances participation and skill improvement.
Knowledge of Physical Fitness and Health Sciences: Teachers need a thorough understanding of exercise physiology, anatomy, and sports psychology to develop science-based lesson plans that safeguard student wellbeing and promote sustained fitness. This expertise allows them to design curricula that align with health principles while inspiring students to achieve optimal physical performance.
Louisiana PE Teacher Classroom Management Skills: Managing dynamic, often large groups in varied environments requires leadership that goes beyond traditional classroom approaches. Successful teachers establish clear rules, foster discipline, and maintain structured activities that keep students engaged and encourage responsible behavior.
Adaptability and Differentiated Instruction: Meeting the needs of a diverse student body involves flexible lesson planning and execution. PE educators must tailor activities to accommodate different physical abilities, cultural backgrounds, and learning preferences while promoting inclusive participation and autonomy.

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Do PE teachers in Louisiana need a teaching license?

Licensing requirements in Louisiana serve to uphold consistent professional standards among educators, ensuring high-quality teaching and positive student outcomes. For physical education teachers, state licensure verifies both subject matter expertise and effective instructional skills, which are critical for fostering student health and lifelong fitness habits.

In Louisiana public schools, a teaching license is mandatory for physical education teachers. Candidates must complete an approved teacher preparation program, including a bachelor’s degree with relevant coursework, student teaching experience, and successful completion of PRAXIS examinations.

After meeting these criteria, applicants receive a Practitioner License (PL1), initially valid for one year and renewable during induction. Advancement to a Level 2 professional certificate requires at least three years of teaching and successful completion of the Louisiana Teacher Assistance and Assessment Program, with further professional certificates attainable through advanced degrees and experience.

These licensure requirements ensure that public school PE teachers possess the qualifications necessary to deliver standards-aligned physical education.

Conversely, private and charter schools in Louisiana often have more flexible hiring criteria and may not strictly require state licensure. Some private schools voluntarily mandate certification to comply with accreditation standards, while others accept alternative qualifications such as relevant degrees or coaching experience.

Charter schools’ requirements vary according to their charters and funding sources, sometimes prioritizing licensure but frequently allowing non-traditional pathways. These differences impact career prospects, with public school positions generally demanding full licensure for access to the largest employment segment, whereas private and charter schools may offer quicker entry but often with less job security and potentially lower compensation.

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

Certification is essential for physical education teachers in Louisiana to ensure they possess the necessary expertise to foster student fitness and wellness effectively. This process establishes professional standards and promotes the delivery of high-quality physical education in diverse school environments.

The following outlines the key steps to achieve certification as a PE teacher in Louisiana:

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Complete an accredited bachelor’s program in physical education, kinesiology focused on health and PE, or a related field. Coursework generally covers exercise physiology, biomechanics, educational psychology, and includes supervised student teaching.
Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Fulfill requirements through an approved preparation program integrated within undergraduate studies or alternative routes. The program includes classroom instruction plus at least one semester of student teaching or internship, with a minimum of 180 field experience hours.
Pass Required Praxis Examinations: Successfully pass the Core Academic Skills exam (unless exempt), Health and Physical Education: Content Knowledge exam, and the Principles of Learning and Teaching exam relevant to the intended grade levels.
Apply for Louisiana Teacher Certification: Submit an application to the Louisiana Department of Education after meeting education and testing prerequisites. Initial certification usually begins with a Practitioner License (PL1), valid for one year and renewable subject to induction participation.
Advance and Maintain Certification: After three years of effective teaching and assessment program completion, teachers can progress to a Level 2 Professional Certificate and eventually Level 3 with advanced qualifications and experience. Continuing education is required to sustain certification.

When asked about the journey to certification, a PE teacher from Louisiana who graduated from a local university shared a candid reflection. He described navigating the extensive Praxis exams as a significant challenge, noting that balancing study with fieldwork demanded rigorous time management and discipline.

“Each step requires you to prove not just knowledge but also your ability to apply that knowledge in real classroom settings,” he explained. The mentorship and induction programs during the initial licensure phase provided valuable support and confidence, easing the transition from student to educator.

He emphasized the satisfaction of progressing through certification levels, remarking, “It’s a process that truly prepares you, making you feel ready to contribute meaningfully to student health and wellness.” This firsthand experience highlights the commitment and professional growth inherent in becoming a certified PE teacher in Louisiana.

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

Louisiana does offer license reciprocity for out-of-state teachers, including those seeking to teach physical education, but the process is not automatic and requires additional steps. Teachers with a valid out-of-state license who have completed an approved teacher education program can apply for certification through either the Level 1 Professional Certification or the Out-of-State Certification.

Eligibility for the Level 1 Certificate depends on having passed the Louisiana Praxis or National Teacher Examinations related to teaching. This certificate is valid for three years. If the required Louisiana-specific tests have not been completed, applicants receive a non-renewable three-year Out-of-State Certificate.

During this time, they must fulfill any outstanding testing or coursework requirements to qualify for a standard Louisiana license. Although Louisiana participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which facilitates transferring credentials between states, not all applicants receive full reciprocity, and their qualifications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

For physical education teachers, these policies mean there can be a transitional period before achieving full licensure in Louisiana. PE teachers must complete the relevant Praxis assessments covering both content knowledge and pedagogy specific to physical education.

Additionally, if a teacher has not been actively teaching within the past five years, Louisiana requires completion of at least six semester credits in teaching-related coursework from an accredited institution. In such cases, a one-year non-renewable certificate may be issued to allow the teacher to work while completing these requirements.

These measures are designed to maintain teaching standards while addressing workforce shortages in physical education. Out-of-state PE teachers should prepare for potential certification gaps and testing to ensure a smooth transition into Louisiana’s education system.

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

The timeline to become a physical education teacher in Louisiana varies depending on the educational route chosen, certification requirements, and practical teaching experience. Factors such as completing a bachelor's degree with integrated teacher preparation or pursuing an alternative certification can impact how long it takes to reach full licensure.

Understanding these stages helps clarify the overall process involved in meeting Louisiana’s standards for physical education teachers.

Bachelor's Degree Completion: 4 Years: Most candidates enroll in a Bachelor of Science program in Health and Physical Education or Kinesiology with a focus on physical education. These programs typically involve around 120 credit hours and include coursework that prepares students both in academic theory and foundational teaching skills.
Student Teaching Experience: 1 Semester (Included in Degree): Student teaching is a critical, supervised practical component embedded within the degree program, providing firsthand classroom teaching experience essential for developing instructional skills and classroom management strategies.
Praxis Examination Preparation and Testing: 2-6 Months: Passing required Praxis exams is mandatory for certification, covering core academic skills and physical education content knowledge. Preparation time can vary based on individual readiness and exam scheduling.
Initial Certification Processing: 1-3 Months: After meeting educational and exam requirements, candidates apply for the Practitioner License PL1 through state certification agencies. This provisional certification allows teaching while completing further professional development.
Alternative Certification Route: 1-2 Years: For those who already hold a bachelor’s degree, Louisiana offers an alternate certification path that includes specific coursework and a required internship, enabling faster entry into the profession compared to pursuing a second degree.
Professional Advancement Timeline: 3-8 Years: Teachers progress through certification levels by gaining teaching experience, undergoing performance evaluations, and earning advanced degrees, which enhances professional standing and long-term career growth.

Those seeking more information about educational options may find useful insights by exploring what is the most affordable elementary education online program, which can offer guidance on education pathways. The process of how long does it take to become a PE teacher in Louisiana reflects a carefully structured system focused on both academic preparation and practical skill development to ensure high teaching standards.

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

The overall cost to become a PE teacher in Louisiana involves multiple financial factors, including tuition, certification fees, and mandatory examination expenses. These costs can vary depending on educational choices and the certification pathway selected.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the primary expenses that contribute to the Louisiana PE teacher certification fees:

Bachelor's Degree Tuition: Completing a bachelor’s degree in physical education or a related field is essential. Tuition rates differ substantially between public and private institutions, with in-state public university costs generally being more affordable than private or out-of-state options.
Alternative Certification Programs: For candidates with degrees outside physical education, programs such as iteach offer a route to certification with a total cost of $4,949. These include flexible payment plans starting with a $99 enrollment fee and monthly payments until field experience begins.
PRAXIS Examination Fees: Certification requires passing several PRAXIS tests, including Core Academic Skills, Principles of Learning and Teaching, and Health and Physical Education content knowledge. Exam fees range from $130 to $156 per test, contributing notably to total certification expenses.
Licensing and Application Fees: Louisiana imposes specific fees for the Practitioner License PL2 and Level 1 Certification applications, each costing $50. These fees cover application processing and the issuance of teaching credentials.
Additional Educational Expenses: Prospective teachers should consider other required costs such as textbooks, background checks, and field experiences. Some pathways also allow earning up to 12 graduate credits toward a master’s degree, which may increase overall expenditures but provide added qualifications.

Budgeting for the cost to become a PE teacher in Louisiana requires careful planning and awareness of all associated fees. Students may also explore financial aid and cheap online masters degrees as options to manage some education expenses effectively.

Are there scholarships for physical education teaching students in Louisiana?

Financial assistance and scholarships ease the financial burden associated with pursuing a physical education teaching degree in Louisiana, enabling more students to focus on their academic and professional development. Various sources of aid provide targeted support for educational costs, making this career path more attainable.

Louisiana Geaux Teach Scholarship Program: Offers up to $5,000 annually for eligible full-time students in teacher preparation programs, covering tuition, fees, and textbooks.
TOPS Scholarships: Merit-based awards with multiple tiers that help cover tuition for Louisiana residents attending in-state institutions.
Institutional Scholarships: Specific awards from universities, such as the Harvey A. Theriot, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, support physical education majors based on academic merit.
Federal Aid via FAFSA: Access to Pell Grants, work-study, and loans, with Pell Grants providing up to $7,395 per year depending on need.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: Forgiveness of up to $17,500 on federal loans after five years teaching in qualifying schools, potentially benefiting PE teachers in high-need districts.

A PE teacher from Louisiana shared her journey, recalling that "applying for multiple scholarships was overwhelming at first, but the Louisiana Geaux Teach Scholarship made a real difference in managing expenses."

Graduating from a local university, she emphasized how receiving institutional scholarships encouraged her to maintain a strong GPA, while completing the FAFSA opened doors to federal grants that eased financial pressure.

"Without this layered support system, I’m not sure I could have focused fully on my training," she reflected, highlighting how crucial such aid was in turning her aspirations into a sustainable career.

Is there demand for physical education teachers in Louisiana?

The demand for physical education teachers in Louisiana is influenced by multiple factors including shifts in school enrollment, implementation of statewide health initiatives, and patterns related to teacher retirements.

These elements collectively shape the ongoing need for qualified professionals within the education system, ensuring that physical education programs can support student health and wellness goals throughout the state. Additionally, broader teacher shortages contribute to maintaining active recruitment efforts for PE educators.

The physical education teacher job market in Louisiana is strongest within public school districts and underserved regions, where vacancies often remain despite an overall decline in teaching job openings.

Rural communities and high-need districts face pronounced challenges in attracting certified PE teachers, largely due to comparatively low salaries and a high proportion of unqualified educators filling roles. Job growth prospects align with state commitments to boost physical activity among students, as well as with relatively stable or increasing enrollment figures in select areas.

Opportunities extend across all grade levels and include specialized schools emphasizing health, STEM, and character education. Aspiring teachers who obtain full certification can expect to find employment options not only in traditional public schools but also in charter and academy settings that prioritize wellness.

For those considering entering this profession, understanding what jobs can you get with teaching degree is critical, as physical education is just one path within education careers. These market trends underline the importance of certification and readiness to teach in underserved areas, where demand is particularly pronounced.

Overall, individuals seeking to become PE teachers in Louisiana can anticipate steady demand supported by state education and health priorities.

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

Salary remain sa significant consideration for aspiring physical education teachers in Louisiana, as it directly affects quality of life and career satisfaction. Understanding key factors that influence salary can help candidates make informed decisions about their career paths in the state.

Below are the main factors impacting salaries for PE teachers in Louisiana:

Years of Experience: Salaries tend to increase with greater teaching experience, with veteran educators potentially earning up to $57,293 or more, reflecting their expertise and classroom management skills.
Education Level: Holding advanced degrees such as a master’s or doctorate generally leads to higher pay, as it signifies a deeper level of qualification and specialization.
School Type (Public vs. Private): Public schools typically offer more standardized salary scales, while private schools may vary in compensation depending on size and financial resources.
Geographic Location: Urban centers like New Orleans often provide higher salaries compared to rural areas due to economic conditions and cost of living differences.

The salary range for physical education teachers in Louisiana spans from approximately $20,095 to $61,569, illustrating significant variation influenced by experience, education, and location. This spectrum highlights both the professional challenges and the rewarding nature of a career in physical education teaching within the state.

How Can Continuing Professional Development Enhance Your PE Teaching Career in Louisiana?

Ongoing professional development enables PE teachers in Louisiana to adopt innovative instructional methods and leadership skills while staying current with evolving educational standards. Targeted professional development programs, including specialized workshops and collaborative training sessions, contribute to improved classroom performance and open pathways to advanced roles. For further details on career progression timelines, learn how long does it take to become a teacher in Louisiana.

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

Completing my physical education program at Baton Rouge Academy gave me a strong foundation to understand the unique needs of students in Louisiana, especially with the rich culture and outdoor lifestyle here. Starting my career in a local school allowed me to see firsthand how important physical activity is for kids’ overall well-being, and I’ve truly loved watching them grow stronger and more confident through sports and exercise. The job stability and supportive community make this career very rewarding, and I feel proud to contribute to improving the health of young people in our state. Thomas
After graduating from Lake Charles Charter School’s PE program, I began teaching at a local school, which was both challenging and fulfilling. Louisiana’s diverse student population and the integration of local traditions like Cajun dance and outdoor games have made my teaching experience unique and engaging. I’ve grown professionally by adapting to the cultural nuances and environmental factors, such as heat and humidity, ensuring safe exercise practices. This career has allowed me to develop meaningful relationships within the community and continuously improve my skills as an educator. Charlotte
Pursuing my physical education degree at New Orleans Sports Academy shaped my approach to teaching, emphasizing personal growth and holistic wellness. Working as a PE teacher in a local school, I’ve been privileged to contribute to a healthier future for kids in Louisiana by promoting activity that respects our natural environment. The career advancement opportunities here are excellent, especially with access to ongoing professional development tailored to our unique regional needs. It’s incredibly rewarding to support students’ fitness journeys and watch them take pride in their improvements. Pedro

References:

Information for teachers https://www.teachlouisiana.net/teachers.aspx
Health & Physical Education Gr K-12, P.B.C. | College of Education & Human Development https://education.louisiana.edu/academic-programs/certification-only-program/health-physical-education
Concentration: Health and Physical Education Teacher Certification | LSU School of Kinesiology https://www.lsu.edu/chse/kinesiology/undergraduate_programs/bs_kinesiology/item48721.php
How to Become a PE Teacher in Louisiana | Requirements for PE Teacher Jobs in LA https://www.peteacheredu.org/louisiana/
Health and Physical Education Grades K-12, BS - Southeastern Louisiana University https://www.southeastern.edu/majors-and-minors/health-and-physical-education-grades-k-12-bs/
Pathways to Teaching https://doe.louisiana.gov/educators/certification/pathways-to-teaching
Louisiana Teacher Certification (State Requirements) https://www.alleducationschools.com/teacher-certification/louisiana/
For those curious about other career options, reviewing can provide helpful insights. https://research.com/careers/best-jobs-you-can-get-with-an-education-degree-that-arent-teaching
Louisiana Alternative Teacher Certification - iteach https://iteach.net/alternative-teacher-certification/louisiana-alternative-teacher-certification/
Program: Health and Physical Education Certification-Only Alternate Path Program: Grades K-12 - Louisiana State University at Alexandria - Modern Campus Catalog™ http://catalog.lsua.edu/preview_program.php

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

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

In Louisiana, becoming a physical education (PE) teacher without a traditional teaching degree is challenging, as public schools generally require candidates to hold a state-issued teaching certification, which typically involves completing a bachelor’s degree in education or an approved alternative certification program.

However, alternative pathways exist, such as the Louisiana Department of Education’s Alternative Certification for Educators (ACE) program, which allows individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a related field to pursue licensure while teaching. This means candidates without a formal teaching degree can still become PE teachers by completing required coursework and passing state certification exams.

Overall, while a teaching degree is the standard route, motivated individuals can enter the profession through alternative certification routes tailored to non-education graduates.

Does Louisiana offer alternative certification for PE teachers?

Louisiana does offer alternative certification pathways for aspiring Physical Education (PE) teachers, allowing candidates to enter the profession without following the traditional university educator preparation programs. These alternative routes are designed to address teacher shortages and provide flexible options for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a field related to physical education or sports science.

Candidates typically must complete state-approved training and pass required certification exams to obtain licensure. This approach helps streamline the process for qualified professionals to become certified PE teachers while maintaining state standards for teaching quality.

What benefits do physical education teachers in Louisiana receive?

Physical education teachers in Louisiana enjoy a range of benefits that support both their professional and personal well-being. They typically receive competitive salaries aligned with state education standards, along with comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans through the Louisiana state system.

Additionally, PE teachers benefit from generous paid time off, including sick leave and holidays, which contribute to a balanced work-life environment. Access to continuous professional development opportunities ensures they can stay current with best practices, enhancing their teaching effectiveness and career growth.

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

In Louisiana, physical education (PE) teachers typically must hold endorsements specific to the subjects they intend to teach. Without additional endorsements beyond PE, teachers are generally restricted from instructing core academic subjects or other specialized areas.

However, schools may sometimes allow PE teachers to teach related or elective courses if they obtain the appropriate endorsements or meet specific licensing requirements. Therefore, PE teachers interested in teaching multiple subjects should pursue the necessary endorsements through the Louisiana Department of Education to expand their teaching opportunities beyond physical education.