I don't think we've ever had an applicant who received certification this way, but my district doesn't allow us to get credit for degrees from online schools, so I imagine that certification that way wouldn't go over well. I would hope that this conservative attitude is on the way out, though, and would not be the norm. Do you know any teachers who could maybe ask around at their schools as a hypothetical to see what the response is like in your area?
Teachers: Online Cert Program any good?
I have recently discovered an online certificate program that is NCATE accredited and places you for a student teaching session (12-20 weeks) in local schools. It is perfect for my budget, schedule and background (I'm a career changer, making it very hard to qualify for local brick-and-mortar programs). This program is at Western Governors University.
However, I'm worried what local school districts will think about someone obtaining a certificate in this way. Are there any teachers here who sit on hiring committees who can tell me anything about how Western Governors University's teacher certificate program is viewed? I would probably just do the certificate program but may go for the master's degree.. aiming for Middle School Math, hoping to add a ms science endorsement too.
I have already passed my state's version of the PRAXIS exams to be eligible to teach MS Math and have an undergrad degree in math & physics, now I just need to complete a teacher-prep program. My state board recognizes this method, but I know that does NOT equate to school districts wanting to hire teachers who went this route!
The online reviews seem 50/50, but I have not found ANY reviews addressing the school/program from an administrators/hiring POV.
Thanks for any advice
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However, I'm worried what local school districts will think about someone obtaining a certificate in this way. Are there any teachers here who sit on hiring committees who can tell me anything about how Western Governors University's teacher certificate program is viewed? I would probably just do the certificate program but may go for the master's degree.. aiming for Middle School Math, hoping to add a ms science endorsement too.
I have already passed my state's version of the PRAXIS exams to be eligible to teach MS Math and have an undergrad degree in math & physics, now I just need to complete a teacher-prep program. My state board recognizes this method, but I know that does NOT equate to school districts wanting to hire teachers who went this route!
The online reviews seem 50/50, but I have not found ANY reviews addressing the school/program from an administrators/hiring POV.
Thanks for any advice
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Thanks, that's kind of what I was afraid of. I was hoping the actual classroom-based student teaching would offset the rest but I know it's a long stretch.
I know some teachers but not in my most local district. I did send an email to the program asking if they can put me in touch with any students who have completed the program in my area.
Originally Posted by kwilki8 I don't think we've ever had an applicant who received certification this way, but my district doesn't allow us to get credit for degrees from online schools, so I imagine that certification that way wouldn't go over well. I would hope that this conservative attitude is on the way out, though, and would not be the norm. Do you know any teachers who could maybe ask around at their schools as a hypothetical to see what the response is like in your area? |
I know some teachers but not in my most local district. I did send an email to the program asking if they can put me in touch with any students who have completed the program in my area.
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