From Paraeducator to Biology Teacher: Cayce’s Story
Cayce Helderman returned to Spartanburg High School to teach biology alongside the teacher who inspired her love of the subject. Before she went back to her alma mater, Cayce worked as a paraeducator in a special education classroom. That’s where she decided she wanted a classroom of her own.
Her journey from paraeducator to biology teacher shows how someone already working in a school can pursue online teacher certification while keeping their job.
How Working as a Paraeducator Inspired Cayce to Become a Teacher
“Before I started teaching I was working as a para educator in a special needs classroom,” Cayce says. “It was in that role that I realized that I wanted to have a classroom of my own using my science background.”
She already knew what it was like to support students in a classroom. Now she wanted to bring her science background into one of her own. The next step was finding a route to teacher certification that fit her budget and work schedule.
How Cayce Pursued Online Teacher Certification While Working
Cayce found American Board through the South Carolina Department of Education’s website. The cost stood out right away. “What really drew me to American Board was the affordability of the program,” she says. “It was well within my budget.”
The self-paced format mattered just as much. “I was able to continue working in my current role while also working on my certification. I was able to study on my time and in a way that worked for me.”
Cayce also knew what she wanted to teach. “I also like that I had the freedom to pursue the subject and grade level that I want to teach. Also, American Board provides career advice and coaching.”
Teaching High School Biology at Her Alma Mater
“I now teach high school biology at my alma mater of Spartanburg High School in South Carolina,” Cayce says. “It was really special to be able to come back home and work along side the teacher who inspired my love of biology.”
Now Cayce gets to see students discover what she loved about biology. “I love all the big personalities that my students have,” she says. “It is so rewarding when I see a student master a concept or see the excitement on their faces when a lab they are doing is successful.”
Her work at school also gives her a chance to pursue another passion. “With teaching I am also able to pursue my passion coaching soccer as well.”
Start Your Own Teaching Story with American Board
Cayce’s advice comes from experience. “American Board is perfect for working individuals who are looking to make a career change and is very affordable.”
If you’re a paraeducator who wants to lead a classroom, your experience supporting students is a place to start. If you’re coming from another field, think about the subject you’d be excited to teach. American Board’s self-paced study materials can help you prepare for certification exams around your current job.
Ready to become a teacher? Explore American Board’s online teacher certification program and find the requirements for the state where you want to teach. If you want to follow a path like Cayce’s, start with South Carolina teacher certification.
Meet Cayce Helderman
Cayce Helderman on Becoming a Biology Teacher.
FAQs About Becoming a Biology Teacher in South Carolina
Can a paraeducator become a biology teacher in South Carolina?
Yes. Eligible paraeducators can pursue South Carolina’s alternative certification route through American Board. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree that meets accreditation requirements and must complete the required exams and state certification steps. See the South Carolina Department of Education’s American Board pathway.
What exams do I need to become a high school biology teacher through American Board?
For South Carolina’s Biology pathway, candidates take American Board’s Biology and Professional Teaching Knowledge (PTK) exams. After earning the American Board completion certificate, candidates apply through the state. South Carolina issues the initial Alternative Route Teaching Certificate after applicants complete its requirements and secure qualifying employment. See the South Carolina certification steps.
What grades can I teach with South Carolina’s Biology certification?
South Carolina lists Biology as a high school certification field for grades 9–12. Check the subject and grade range before you enroll, especially if you’re interested in teaching middle school science. See the state’s approved certification fields.
Can I work as a paraeducator while preparing for teacher certification?
Yes. American Board’s study materials are online and self-paced. Cayce continued working as a paraeducator while preparing for certification and studied when it fit her schedule. Explore the Biology program and study materials.
