The Commonwealth of Virginia has seen an increase in the number of educators completing Alternative Teacher Certification Programs, contributing to the diversity in the teaching work force. The purpose of this study was to identify the perceptions of alternatively certified public K-12 teachers regarding their preparedness to teach. The researcher employed a semi-structured focus group protocol in conducting four focus groups with 23 participants who were provisionally licensed K-12 public school teachers in one school division in Virginia and represented elementary, middle, and high school teachers in both general and special education roles. Findings indicated that beginning teachers who have completed an alternative teacher certification program (ATCP) do not feel prepared for the teaching role. Additionally, study findings indicate that ATCP teachers perceive that their training did not adequately prepare them for core academic instruction, lesson planning, differentiation, classroom management, and working with parents, resulting in high levels of stress among provisionally licensed teachers. School leaders are tasked with ensuring equitable learning experiences for all students represented by a highly qualified, diverse faculty. Understanding the unique pre-service training and ongoing needs will help school leaders provide supports aimed at increasing their retention to address growing teacher shortages.