Teachers and related staff are entrusted with educating children and preparing youth to lead successful lives as adults. With such an important role, criminal background checks are a necessity for anyone wishing to become an educator.

Although minor crimes may not interfere with your pursuit to be an educator, certain criminal offenses will prevent you from achieving certification.

Each state legislature determines what standards must be met before a teacher can receive certification to practice as an educator.

For California crimes not permissible for a professional teacher and related staff are: Sexually related Offenses, Drug Activity, 1st or 2nd degree serious felony crimes and any offenses that have endangered the safety of others.

Please note that a "Yes" answer to any of the following questions will not necessarily disqualify you from employment.

Factors such as the age and time of the offense, seriousness and nature of the violation, and rehabilitation will be considered when making any employment decisions.