Becoming A Texas Certified Teacher Through An Alternative Certification Program

One of the options students have to get their teacher certification in Texas is to enroll in an Alternative Certification Program. This program is meant for those who have a bachelor's degree, but the degree is not in the specific academic area they plan to teach in. If you went to school and earned a bachelor's degree, but not in academic studies, this program can help you to get through the educational process quickly so you can become a teacher.

The Steps

The following are the recommended steps for you to take to work through the ACP to get your teacher certification.

- First, decide what subject area you wish to teach in. You will need to choose an ACP that fits into the subject area you plan to teach. In most cases, the decision you make here will determine what certificate you need, which program you need to enroll in and which state required testing you will take.

- Select an approved ACP program in Texas. These programs are intense, classroom training. In most cases, you can complete this program in a year and you may be able to teach as an intern with mentoring and supervision as well. This is a paid internship in most cases, though some do offer non paid internships.

- You will need to be screened before you can enter into the program. you must have the necessary skills and content knowledge, have the right GPA level and meet any other requirements of the program specifically.

- You then need to develop a certification plan with the program. You need to be accepted into the program. The program's staff will work with you to ensure you take the proper training courses and internships.

- You then need to obtain a teaching position. You will be eligible for this type of internship if you meet the requirements set forth, usually with a focus on where you are in your studies. You should choose a teaching assignment in the grade level and subject area of study you plan to work in down the road, too. This is a mentorship to give you field experience.

- You can apply for a probationary certificate at this point, which gives you a teaching certificate for a year. It allows you to work in the field through a supervisor. It also requires a criminal background check to occur. In some cases, this certificate can be extended for up to two more years, depending on your needs and requirements for meeting eligibility.

From this point, you will need to meet all requirements for the program you selected through the ACP. You will then receive a recommendation from the director of the program to allow you to obtain the Standard Certificate. However, you must still apply for the certificate formally. This is done all online. After completing all aspects of this process, you are then able to get your teaching job and begin working in the Texas school systems as a teacher.