TITLE

Program of Alternative Certification for Educators

HISTORY

Established in 1984 by state law.

MOTIVATION

Shortage.

GRADE LEVELS AND/OR SUBJECT AREA(S) COVERED

Areas of teacher shortage deemed critical by the State Board of Education. Areas are evaluated annually.

WHO OPERATES

State.

REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER PROGRAM

A bachelor's degree in an initial certification subject.

A passing score on the appropriate PRAXIS Specialty Area Examination(s).

Two years full time work experience.

Employment by a public school district.

Successful completion of a pre-service institute to prepare the prospective teacher for the opening of school.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The individual completes

A pre-service institute to prepare the prospective teacher for the opening of school (or in January). Training sessions throughout the first school year. Together, these should total 14 days.

An institute during the second summer of employment. Training sessions throughout the second school year. Together, these should total 12 days.

Over a three-year period, completion of three graduate-level professional education courses as prescribed in the teacher's professional development plan.

The individual must successfully complete no fewer than three years of full-time employment in an instructional role in a public school after issuance of the initial alternative certificate.

Participant must pass the Principals of Learning and Teaching exam prior to completion of the PACE program and issuance of the professional certificate.

All program expenses must be paid by the applicant.

NUMBER OF CREDIT HOURS TO COMPLETE

Over a period of three years, completion of three graduate-level professional education courses as prescribed in the teacher's professional development plan.

WHO EVALUATES

State.

LENGTH OF TIME

The individual must complete the requirements within three years.