2026 How to Become a Preschool Teacher in Montana: Requirements & Certification

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Becoming a preschool teacher in Montana means making several practical decisions in the right order: which degree to pursue, whether you need a traditional or alternative certification route, how to meet Office of Public Instruction requirements, and how to keep your credential active after you start teaching. This guide is for future early childhood educators, teaching assistants who want to move into lead roles, career changers with a bachelor’s degree, and working adults comparing online, campus-based, and lower-cost pathways.

Montana’s preschool teaching path can be manageable if you understand the licensing process before enrolling in a program. Below, you’ll learn what degree is typically required, how alternative certification works, what exams and documents may be needed, how public and private preschool jobs differ, what skills employers value, and how to reduce the cost of earning a credential.

Quick Answer: How Do You Become a Preschool Teacher in Montana?

In Montana, preschool teacher licensing is overseen by the Office of Public Instruction (OPI). Candidates generally need at least a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field, completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program, supervised student teaching that typically includes at least 12 weeks of classroom experience, required Praxis exams, fingerprinting, and a background check. After licensure, teachers must complete ongoing professional development to maintain eligibility for renewal.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Preschool Teacher in Montana

• Licensing agency: The Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) manages educator licensing and sets standards for teachers working in licensed school settings.
• Typical education requirement: A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a closely related field is commonly expected for licensed preschool teaching roles.
• Teacher preparation: Candidates usually need to complete a state-approved educator preparation program and a student teaching placement, often involving at least 12 weeks of supervised preschool experience.
• Testing: Prospective teachers may need to pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators exam and, when required, a Praxis Subject Assessment in early childhood education.
• Application materials: Applicants should be ready to submit transcripts, educator preparation documentation, test scores, fingerprints, and background check materials through OPI’s process.
• License maintenance: Montana preschool teachers must complete continuing professional development. Some sources cite at least 60 renewal units every five years, while other guidance references 15 hours every three years, so candidates should verify the current requirement with OPI before renewal.

1. What degree do I need to become a preschool teacher in Montana?
2. What are alternative certification programs for becoming a preschool teacher in Montana?
3. How do you get a preschool teaching license in Montana?
4. What are the continuing education requirements for preschool teachers in Montana?
5. What specializations are available for preschool teachers in Montana?
6. How can preschool teachers in Montana advance their careers?
7. What are the benefits of starting as a preschool teacher assistant in Montana?
8. How do Montana state regulations affect preschool teaching?
9. How can interdisciplinary collaboration benefit preschool education in Montana?
10. How can I streamline the process to secure my teaching credential in Montana?
11. What distinguishes public and private preschool teaching opportunities in Montana?
12. What are the typical salary ranges and benefits for preschool teachers in Montana?
13. How are emerging educational trends reshaping preschool teaching in Montana?
14. What professional organizations and support networks can benefit preschool teachers in Montana?
15. How can preschool teachers effectively integrate art into their curriculum in Montana?
16. How can preschool teaching experience facilitate a transition to alternative teaching careers in Montana?
17. How can preschool teachers best support students with special needs in Montana?
18. How do I navigate Montana teacher certification requirements?
19. What is the job outlook for preschool teachers in Montana over the next 5 years?
20. What skills are essential for success as a preschool teacher in Montana?
21. What are the common challenges faced by preschool teachers in Montana?
22. What is the most cost-effective way to obtain a teaching credential in Montana?
23. What financial aid options are available for aspiring preschool teachers in Montana?

What degree do I need to become a preschool teacher in Montana?

For licensed preschool teaching roles in Montana, the most direct academic route is a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related education field. This type of program prepares candidates to understand child development, plan age-appropriate lessons, observe developmental progress, manage early learning classrooms, and communicate with families.

Accreditation matters. Before enrolling, confirm that the institution is properly accredited and that the teacher preparation program is accepted for Montana licensure. A degree may be valuable academically, but if the program does not meet state educator preparation standards, you may face extra coursework, licensing delays, or limited eligibility for public school positions.

Some students begin with an associate degree because it can lead to assistant teacher, childcare, or entry-level preschool roles. However, an associate degree is usually not the same as completing the full preparation needed for licensed lead teaching positions in public school settings. A bachelor’s degree generally offers a stronger path to licensure, advancement, and leadership roles.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that preschool teachers in Montana with a bachelor’s degree can earn significantly more than those with only an associate degree. Salary depends on employer type, location, funding, benefits, experience, and licensure status, so students should compare likely earnings against program cost before choosing a school.

What are alternative certification programs for becoming a preschool teacher in Montana?

Alternative certification in Montana is designed for people who already hold a bachelor’s degree but did not complete a traditional education degree. It can be useful for career changers, substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, or professionals with experience in child-focused fields who want to move into licensed teaching.

Main alternative certification options

• Class 5 Provisional License: This pathway is for candidates who still need to finish all licensing requirements. Applicants must enroll in an approved educator preparation program and follow a study plan intended to be completed within three years. The license may allow candidates to teach while completing remaining preparation requirements.
• Class 4 Career and Technical License: This route applies to candidates with substantial technical or career-field experience. Applicants need at least 10,000 hours of relevant work experience or an approved combination of education and experience.

Traditional vs. alternative certification

Role of internships and classroom experience

Alternative routes still require practical teaching preparation. Internships, supervised fieldwork, and classroom placements help candidates learn how to guide young children, adapt instruction, document progress, and manage preschool routines. Candidates should ask each program how field experience is arranged and whether placements are available near their community.

Moving from assistant teacher to licensed teacher

Teacher assistants often already understand classroom routines, child behavior, family communication, and curriculum support. To move into a licensed preschool teaching role, they typically need to complete an approved certification program, document supervised teaching experience, and pass required Praxis exams for the relevant teaching area.

Flexible and online options

Some Montana candidates look for online or accelerated alternative certification because they are working while studying. Flexibility can help, but candidates should confirm that any online program is accepted by Montana OPI, includes required fieldwork, and prepares them for the correct license area. For broader context on early education employment paths, review related child development career options.

How do you get a preschool teaching license in Montana?

The licensing process starts before you submit an application. The safest approach is to choose a program that aligns with Montana educator requirements, complete all field experience and testing obligations, and organize documentation early so your application is not delayed.

Step-by-step licensing checklist

1. Choose the right degree or preparation route: Select a bachelor’s program in early childhood education or a related field, or an approved alternative pathway if you already have a bachelor’s degree.
2. Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program: Confirm that the program satisfies Montana requirements for early childhood educators.
3. Finish supervised classroom experience: Candidates typically complete student teaching that includes at least 12 weeks of supervised work in a preschool setting.
4. Take required exams: Prepare for the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators exam and any required Praxis Subject Assessment in early childhood education.
5. Collect official documents: Gather transcripts, degree verification, educator preparation confirmation, and test score reports.
6. Complete fingerprinting and a background check: This step is required because preschool teachers work with young children.
7. Submit the OPI application: Apply through the Montana Office of Public Instruction’s online process and monitor your application status.
8. Plan for renewal: Keep records of professional development, renewal units, and background check updates so your license remains active.

Processing time may range from several weeks to a few months depending on application volume, missing materials, background check completion, and whether OPI needs additional information. Candidates should not wait until the hiring deadline to begin the licensing process.

Costs may include application fees, testing fees, fingerprinting and background check fees, transcript charges, and any additional coursework required to satisfy licensing gaps. If you are comparing state requirements, you may also find it useful to review the teaching requirements in Nevada.

What are the continuing education requirements for preschool teachers in Montana?

Montana preschool teachers must continue professional learning after they become licensed. Continuing education helps teachers stay current with child development research, classroom safety practices, inclusive instruction, family engagement, and curriculum changes.

Requirements should be confirmed directly with the Montana Office of Public Instruction because renewal rules can vary by license type and may change. Existing guidance referenced in this article includes at least 60 renewal units every five years and 15 hours of professional development every three years. Because these numbers differ, teachers should rely on OPI’s current renewal instructions before choosing courses or submitting documentation.

Professional development topics that are especially useful

• Child development: Training on social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical growth in early childhood.
• Curriculum planning: Workshops focused on age-appropriate lessons, learning centers, play-based instruction, and assessment.
• Behavior guidance: Practical strategies for routines, transitions, positive reinforcement, and emotional regulation.
• Cultural competency: Learning that helps teachers build inclusive classrooms for children from different family, cultural, language, and community backgrounds.
• Special education and intervention: Training that improves support for children with developmental delays, disabilities, or individualized needs.

Online training can be convenient for rural educators and working teachers, while in-person workshops may offer stronger peer networking and hands-on practice. Teachers should keep certificates, agendas, transcripts, and attendance records in case they are needed for renewal verification.

What specializations are available for preschool teachers in Montana?

Specialization can help preschool teachers serve specific learner groups, qualify for more focused roles, or move toward leadership. The right choice depends on the classroom population you want to support and the type of employer you hope to work for.

Many early childhood education bachelor’s programs include significant hands-on preparation. In Montana, programs may require over 200 hours of practical engagement before student teaching, which helps candidates connect theory with classroom practice. A specialization can make that experience more focused and can also help teachers stand out when applying for roles in inclusive classrooms, bilingual programs, private preschools, or curriculum leadership.

Students comparing education to other creative or design-oriented professions may also want to examine long-term skill transfer and workplace settings. For example, exploring interior design career growth can provide a contrast between child-centered education careers and design-focused professional pathways.

How can preschool teachers in Montana advance their careers?

Preschool teachers can grow beyond the entry-level classroom by adding credentials, taking on leadership responsibilities, mentoring other educators, or moving into policy, training, or program administration. Advancement usually depends on education level, years of experience, demonstrated classroom effectiveness, and employer needs.

• Earn an advanced degree: A master’s degree in early childhood education can support movement into leadership, curriculum, coaching, or administrative roles. It may also help educators meet higher certification expectations connected to the Montana Early Childhood Project.
• Become a mentor or trainer: Experienced teachers can support new educators, lead professional development sessions, or guide assistants and interns through classroom practice.
• Move into preschool administration: Teachers with strong organizational, compliance, family communication, and staff supervision skills may pursue roles such as lead teacher, center coordinator, or preschool director.
• Participate in policy advocacy: Educators who understand classroom realities can contribute to early childhood committees, advocacy groups, or local initiatives focused on access, funding, and quality.
• Explore research or consulting: Teachers interested in evaluation, curriculum improvement, or professional training may work with schools, nonprofits, agencies, or education programs.
• Maintain voluntary credentials: Joining the Montana Early Childhood Project and completing ongoing training can strengthen a teacher’s professional profile and show commitment to growth.

If you are comparing certification systems across states, this guide to Wisconsin teacher certification exams may help you understand how testing and licensure expectations differ by location.

What are the benefits of starting as a preschool teacher assistant in Montana?

Starting as a preschool teacher assistant can be a smart first step for people who want classroom experience before committing to a full teacher preparation program. Assistants learn how preschool classrooms operate, how teachers structure routines, how young children respond to guidance, and how families and educators communicate about development.

This route is also more accessible for many students. Some Montana assistant positions do not require a bachelor’s degree, although employers may prefer coursework in early childhood education, child development, or a related area. If you want to understand this entry point in more detail, read this guide on how to become a preschool teacher assistant in Montana.

The assistant role can help you test your fit for early childhood education. It also provides relevant experience that may strengthen applications for degree programs, alternative certification, or future lead teacher positions. For many educators, assistant work becomes the bridge between interest and long-term commitment.

How do Montana state regulations affect preschool teaching?

Montana regulations shape how preschool classrooms are staffed, organized, documented, and supervised. Teachers need to understand these rules because compliance affects child safety, lesson planning, assessment, licensing, and program quality.

• Child-to-teacher ratios: Montana requires a 10:1 child-to-teacher ratio for preschool classrooms, helping ensure that children receive adequate supervision and attention.
• Health and safety expectations: Preschool teachers must maintain safe spaces, use age-appropriate materials, follow sanitation practices, and participate in safety procedures.
• Licensing and curriculum alignment: Educators in licensed roles are expected to meet credential standards and use developmentally appropriate, evidence-informed instruction.
• Whole-child learning: Montana preschool frameworks emphasize social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development rather than academics alone.
• Assessment and reporting: Teachers may need to document child progress and provide reports that support accountability, family communication, and program improvement.

Regulations can feel technical, but they are designed to protect children and create consistent expectations for early learning programs. Candidates should ask employers which specific rules apply to their setting because public schools, private preschools, childcare centers, and specialized programs may operate under different requirements.

How can interdisciplinary collaboration benefit preschool education in Montana?

Preschool teachers rarely support children alone. Collaboration with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, behavioral specialists, special educators, school nurses, social workers, and family support professionals can help teachers identify concerns earlier and respond more effectively.

Interdisciplinary teams are especially valuable when a child shows signs of language delay, sensory needs, social-emotional difficulty, or developmental differences. By combining classroom observation with specialist insight, educators can create more practical supports and stronger individualized plans. Readers interested in one related support profession can review how to become a speech-language pathologist in Montana.

How can I streamline the process to secure my teaching credential in Montana?

The fastest licensing process is usually the one with the fewest missing documents. Before applying, create a checklist that includes transcripts, test scores, program completion verification, background check materials, fingerprinting, field experience records, and any professional references requested by your program or employer.

Ask your preparation program which documents it sends directly to OPI and which documents you must submit yourself. Also confirm testing deadlines early, since delayed exam scores can slow down hiring. For a broader credentialing checklist, use this guide on how to get your teaching credential.

What distinguishes public and private preschool teaching opportunities in Montana?

Public and private preschool jobs can both be rewarding, but they often differ in credential expectations, compensation structures, curriculum requirements, benefits, class size, and administrative oversight.

Private schools may set different hiring criteria than public institutions, so candidates should read job postings carefully and ask about licensing, training, and advancement. For more detail, see private school teacher requirements in Montana.

What are the typical salary ranges and benefits for preschool teachers in Montana?

Preschool teacher pay in Montana varies by education level, license status, experience, employer type, region, and whether the position is in a public school, private preschool, Head Start setting, or childcare program. Entry-level teachers with an associate degree usually begin at the lower end of the salary range, while teachers with a bachelor’s degree, licensure, and additional certifications may qualify for higher base pay and stronger benefits.

Benefits can matter as much as salary. Public employers may offer health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, and formal professional development, while private programs vary widely. Urban districts may offer more competitive remuneration than some rural areas, although rural schools may provide close community connections and different lifestyle advantages.

When comparing the value of education programs, avoid judging by tuition alone. Estimate total cost, likely debt, local wage levels, benefits, commute, and time to licensure. If you are comparing online degree value across fields, this overview of the best online history degree programs can provide another example of how degree format and career outcomes should be evaluated together.

How are emerging educational trends reshaping preschool teaching in Montana?

Preschool teaching is changing as classrooms place more emphasis on play-based learning, inclusion, early intervention, family engagement, and carefully selected digital tools. Technology can support documentation, communication, adaptive activities, and teacher planning, but it does not replace hands-on exploration, social interaction, outdoor learning, or relationship-based instruction.

Teachers should expect employers to value comfort with classroom technology, culturally responsive teaching, developmental assessment, and collaboration with specialists. These shifts also mean ongoing professional development is not optional; it is part of staying effective. Educators comparing instructional roles across grade levels may find useful contrast in this guide on how to become a middle school math teacher in Montana.

What professional organizations and support networks can benefit preschool teachers in Montana?

Professional organizations can help Montana preschool teachers stay current, find training, meet mentors, understand policy changes, and connect with peers who face similar classroom challenges. Local networks can be especially useful in rural areas where educators may have fewer colleagues in the same building.

Look for groups that offer practical workshops, early childhood conferences, advocacy updates, coaching, scholarships, or communities of practice. These supports can help teachers avoid isolation and build leadership skills over time. Educators who want to compare early childhood teaching with later-grade instruction can review how to become an elementary school teacher in Montana.

How can preschool teachers effectively integrate art into their curriculum in Montana?

Art belongs in preschool because it supports fine motor development, language, problem-solving, social expression, emotional awareness, and creative confidence. Effective art instruction for young children is less about producing perfect crafts and more about exploration, choice, materials, conversation, and reflection.

Montana preschool teachers can connect art to local nature, seasonal changes, community stories, textures, music, movement, and early literacy. Teachers should align activities with early childhood standards, use safe materials, and adapt projects for children with sensory or motor needs. For educators interested in deeper arts instruction, this resource on how to become an art teacher in Montana may be useful.

How can preschool teaching experience facilitate a transition to alternative teaching careers in Montana?

Preschool teaching builds transferable skills: lesson planning, behavior guidance, observation, family communication, creativity, assessment, patience, and differentiated instruction. Those skills can support movement into elementary education, special education, music, art, intervention services, administration, training, or curriculum roles.

A transition usually requires additional coursework, exams, or certification in the new teaching area. Preschool teachers should compare requirements before assuming experience alone will qualify them for another classroom. If music education is a possible direction, review how to become a music teacher in Montana.

How can preschool teachers best support students with special needs in Montana?

Supporting children with disabilities or developmental delays starts with observation, documentation, family communication, and collaboration. Preschool teachers should learn to recognize developmental concerns, adapt routines, provide visual supports, use positive behavior strategies, and work with specialists when a child needs more targeted help.

Inclusive teaching also requires respectful partnerships with families. Teachers should avoid labeling children prematurely, but they should not ignore patterns that may call for evaluation or intervention. Additional training in special education can strengthen a preschool teacher’s ability to support diverse learners. For a related pathway, see special education teacher requirements in Montana.

How do I navigate Montana teacher certification requirements?

The best way to navigate Montana certification is to work backward from the license you need. Identify the setting where you want to teach, confirm the required license or credential, choose an approved program, complete fieldwork, pass exams, and gather documentation before applying.

Do not rely only on a school’s marketing language. Ask whether the program is designed for Montana licensure, what Praxis exams are required, how student teaching is arranged, and what support is available if you are already working. For a state-specific overview, use this guide to Montana teacher certification requirements.

What is the job outlook for preschool teachers in Montana over the next 5 years?

The job outlook for preschool teachers in Montana over the next five years is projected at approximately 10% growth according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Demand is shaped by public investment in early learning, population changes, childcare availability, preschool access, and turnover in the early childhood workforce.

Urban areas may see stronger hiring because of population density and larger school systems. Rural communities may have fewer total openings, but they still need qualified early childhood educators, and a smaller applicant pool can sometimes create opportunities for well-prepared candidates.

Government initiatives such as the Montana Preschool Development Grant are intended to expand access to quality preschool education. When funding grows, public and private programs may add classrooms or strengthen staffing. When funding contracts, hiring can slow, especially in programs dependent on grants or public budgets.

Public preschool jobs may offer more predictable benefits and pay structures, while private programs may compete through flexible schedules, distinctive curriculum models, or smaller community-based environments. Candidates should compare total compensation, not just hourly or annual pay.

What skills are essential for success as a preschool teacher in Montana?

Successful preschool teachers combine warmth with structure. They must understand early childhood development while also managing real classrooms full of movement, curiosity, conflict, play, language growth, and changing emotions.

• Communication: Teachers need to explain ideas clearly to children and maintain respectful, consistent communication with families.
• Classroom management: Strong routines, positive reinforcement, predictable transitions, and calm redirection help preschoolers feel secure.
• Creativity: Effective teachers design activities that make literacy, math, science, art, music, movement, and social skills meaningful for young children.
• Observation and assessment: Preschool teachers must notice developmental progress, identify concerns, and adjust instruction for different learners.
• Patience and emotional resilience: Early childhood classrooms can be noisy and unpredictable, so teachers need steady energy and self-regulation.
• Inclusive practice: Teachers should be prepared to support children with different cultural backgrounds, languages, abilities, and family structures.
• Family partnership: Preschool learning improves when teachers and caregivers share information and reinforce goals together.

Montana candidates typically build these skills through bachelor’s-level coursework in early childhood education or a related field, including child development, educational psychology, instructional methods, and supervised practice. Students seeking lower-cost preparation can review affordable online early childhood education programs.

What are the common challenges faced by preschool teachers in Montana?

Preschool teaching is meaningful work, but it can also be demanding. The most common challenges include balancing child supervision with lesson planning, documenting development, communicating with families, and meeting regulatory expectations.

Teachers should also watch for common career-planning mistakes: enrolling in a non-approved program, focusing only on tuition, assuming every online degree leads to Montana licensure, waiting too long to schedule exams, and accepting a job without understanding benefits, ratios, planning time, or renewal expectations.

What is the most cost-effective way to obtain a teaching credential in Montana?

The lowest-cost pathway depends on your starting point. A first-time college student, a current assistant teacher, and a bachelor’s degree holder changing careers will not have the same cheapest option. The most cost-effective route is usually the one that meets Montana requirements without unnecessary credits, duplicated coursework, or licensure gaps.

Before enrolling, compare tuition, fees, books, testing costs, background check costs, transfer credit policies, field placement requirements, commute or technology expenses, and financial aid. Candidates focused on affordability can begin with this guide to the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Montana.

What financial aid options are available for aspiring preschool teachers in Montana?

Future preschool teachers in Montana may be able to use federal aid, state aid, scholarships, employer support, work-study, and loan forgiveness programs to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Availability depends on eligibility, enrollment status, school participation, financial need, academic progress, and service commitments.

• Federal and state grants: Pell Grants can provide up to $6,495 annually for eligible students. Montana’s Office of Public Instruction also administers state-specific grant opportunities connected to early childhood education.
• Early childhood scholarships: Organizations such as the Montana Association for the Education of Young Children (MAEYC) offer scholarships for students enrolled in accredited programs, and the Early Childhood Education Scholarship Program supports individuals committed to underserved areas.
• Loan forgiveness: Montana participates in the federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program, which can forgive up to $17,500 in federal student loans for qualifying teachers who work in low-income schools for five consecutive years.
• Professional development funding: The Montana Early Childhood Project offers grants for workshops and training that help current educators continue building skills.
• Work-study and employer tuition assistance: Some schools and employers offer paid work opportunities, tuition support, or reimbursement for employees pursuing early childhood credentials.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Montana Preschool Teacher Program

• Is the college or university accredited?
• Is the educator preparation program approved for Montana licensure?
• What license or credential will I be eligible for after graduation?
• Does the program include student teaching in a preschool setting?
• How many field experience hours are required before student teaching?
• Which Praxis exams should I take, and when?
• Can I complete coursework online, and how are local placements arranged?
• What transfer credits will the program accept?
• What is the full cost, including fees, exams, books, and background checks?
• What job placement, advising, and licensure support does the program provide?

What Preschool Teachers in Montana Say About Their Work

“Teaching preschool in Montana changed the way I understood education. I grew up in a small town and saw how much one dedicated teacher could influence a child’s confidence. On my first day in the classroom, I realized I was not only teaching letters, songs, and routines; I was helping children feel safe enough to explore. The relationships with students and families have been the most meaningful part of the work.” — Mitch

“My own preschool teacher made learning feel like discovery, and I try to create that same feeling for my students. Montana gives us so many opportunities to connect lessons to nature, community, and local stories. Watching children ask questions, notice details, and build a sense of belonging keeps the work fresh.” — Jake

“I chose preschool because early learning shapes social and emotional development in powerful ways. In a rural community, access to strong early education can make a real difference. I love seeing children gain confidence over the year and begin to believe that school is a place where they can succeed.” — Chris

Key Insights

• Montana preschool teacher licensing is handled by the Office of Public Instruction, and candidates should verify current requirements directly with OPI before enrolling or renewing.
• A bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field is the most direct route for licensed lead preschool teaching roles.
• Alternative certification may work for bachelor’s degree holders who are changing careers, but it requires careful planning around coursework, testing, and field experience.
• Student teaching, Praxis exams, fingerprinting, background checks, and complete documentation are the major steps that can delay licensure if left until the last minute.
• Public and private preschool jobs differ in credential expectations, compensation, benefits, curriculum flexibility, and advancement options.
• Cost-conscious students should compare total program cost, transfer credit, financial aid, testing fees, and licensure alignment—not tuition alone.
• Specializations such as early childhood special education, bilingual education, STEM, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and curriculum development can improve career fit and advancement potential.
• The strongest preschool teachers combine child development knowledge with patience, communication, classroom structure, creativity, and inclusive practice.

References:

• teachercertificationdegrees.com (21 Mar 2011). Montana Alternative Teacher Certification. Teacher Certification Degrees.
• opi.mt.gov (n.d.). Educator Licenses. Montana Office of Public Instruction.
• umt.edu (n.d.). Study Early Childhood Education at the University of Montana. University of Montana.
• preschoolteacher.org (19 Sep 2014). Requirements for Early Childhood Education Jobs in Montana. PreSchoolTeacher.org.