Which state has more jobs?

When trying to teach in another state, do I need to become certified in that state before applying for jobs?

• I'm pretty open with where I go to teach, and have been applying all over the country. The problem, however, is that I've only gotten one call from out of state schools, despite having applied to dozens. Since I've been applying all over, I haven't bothered with getting certified in every state I've tried (each one averages between $150-200 to get the certification), preferring instead to get certified after getting hired, should I get hired out of state. I'm now, however, wondering if the schools toss my application in the trash when they see that I'm not certified in their state. My state does have reciprocity with more than 40 states, which means as long as I do the paperwork and pay the fee, I can teach almost anywhere, but I wonder if it might be better to focus on one specific location and just go ahead and get certified there. Thoughts?

• Answer:

  Usually you must be certifiable in that state if they hire you. If your certifications are in demand, they will wait for you to get certified in that state as all 50 states have reciprocity.