Educator Certification Overview
The preparation of teachers and other educational leaders is the goal of the Educator Preparation Program of East Texas A&M University. The Alternative Certification Advisory Committee consisting of university faculty, public school teachers and administrators, and business men and women serves as a directorial force for program guidelines which include such areas as admission and retention requirements, curriculum, and program design.
The Educator Preparation Program (EPP) is standards-based, learner-centered, and delivered through a collaborative classroom practicum experience. Technology skills and responsiveness to diversity, including ESL and students with special needs, are integral parts of the program. As with all teacher preparation in Texas, each program completer has an academic specialization, grade level, and a common core curriculum as a basis for the professional education sequence. Recommendation for certification is completed through the Center for Educator Certification and Academic Services. Once all requirements are completed (including all required tests, course work, and fees paid) you will apply to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for your Standard Texas Teaching Certificate.
Program Accreditations
All educator preparation programs in the COEHS are accredited by the State of Texas. The Educator Preparation Program takes pride in the high over-all initial pass rate maintained by individuals completing the East Texas A&M University certification program.
National Report Card – Title II
The Educator Preparation Program maintains a high pass rate on all state required assessments in basic skills, professional knowledge/pedagogy, academic content area, and/or teaching special populations.
Teacher Certification in Texas
In order to become a certified teacher in Texas through our Teacher Certification program, an individual must:
- Demonstrate competency in the basic skills of reading, writing, and mathematics.
- Have previously earned a bachelor’s degree with a 2.75 overall GPA or higher
- Complete an approved educator certification program with or without earning a master's degree
- Complete a paid 1-year internship or an unpaid 490-hour clinical/student teaching assignment
- Pass state certification examinations in both content and pedagogy • Apply to Texas Education Agency (TEA)
- Be recommended by the certification program or entity