I just joined USCF and am wondering how one gets to be rated player. I just took a position teaching chess at local elementary schools, and am looking at what I should do, who I should contact etc, to be the best for my students. I saw the application for the coaches, but what level do I need, and who can send the required supporting documentation.
To obtain a rating, you must play at least four games in a USCF-rated tournament. See the “Tournament Life” section of Chess Life for a list of events, or visit a local chess club.
Welcome to the USCF and the Forums!
You also might want to check out the pages of the Minnesota State Chess Association. minnesotachess.org/news.php (I haven’t browsed it much myself, but most state affiliates have tournament calendars, club directories, etc.) If you’re close to a state border, you could look up the neighboring states’ affiliates, also.
As for clubs, you also might want to check out the club locating resources here at USCF ( main.uschess.org/component/optio … temid,198/ ). That’s how I found the group I now play in. 
A good club also not only can hold tournaments itself, but its members can be a source of information about what’s happening locally. Some clubs are more active than others, so if you’re in a large-population area (Twin Cities, for example,) you may find multiple options.
If you’re teaching at a school, there may also be a larger scholastic chess association or organization in your area which may help you.
Again, welcome!