THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION
Established in September 2003 with a discretionary grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the National Center for Alternative Certification is a one-stop, comprehensive clearinghouse for information about alternative routes to certification in the United States. The Center, through a tollfree Call Center and a major interactive Web site, www.teach-now.org, provides immediate answers to questions and guidance for individuals interested in becoming teachers, as well as for policymakers, legislators, educators, researchers and members of the public.
In addition, the Center provides outreach and technical assistance to states, localities and other entities wanting to create high quality alternative routes to certification or to upgrade existing routes through a variety of mechanisms, including conferences.
Full descriptions of all alternative routes to certification in each of the states -- an effort begun by the National Center for Education Information in 1983 and published annually – are being made available free of charge on the Web site, www.teach-now.org.
Studies and data-collection efforts are on-going to ensure that the most current and accurate information about policies and practices regarding alternative routes to certification is provided. These efforts include collecting and analyzing data concerning, not only the numbers, but also the academic and other characteristics of individuals who become certified through alternative routes. The National Center for Alternative Certification collects and makes available information about the quality of alternative routes to teacher certification, describes the nature of the content and pedagogy of such routes and classifies routes accordingly.
In addition to compiling and disseminating any and all information about alternative routes to certification, the Center distinguishes itself by providing outreach and technical assistance in this area.
Phone: 1-202-822-8280
Web site: www.teach-now.org
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