State-approved programs are professional education programs based on established state standards and delivered as traditional or alternative routes to certification. Such programs, usually provided by colleges/universities, school systems, RESAs, private providers or collaborative arrangements between any of these agencies, must be approved by the appropriate state agency in order to recommend candidates for certification. Program standards and requirements are based on preparation necessary to obtain a certificate, and state-approved programs may or may not require a specific degree. Georgia approved programs include those that result in certificates as well as endorsements. A listing of Georgia state-approved programs may be found on the PSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

 

Pioneer RESA is approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GAPSC) to offer Endorsement Courses in the following fields:

	Gifted In-Field: Four courses are required to complete the Gifted Endorsement
	Reading: Three courses are required to complete the Reading Endorsement
	English Speakers of Other Languages: Three courses are required to complete the ESOL Endorsement
	Online Teaching Endorsement: Three courses, two field experiences, and an internship with Georgia Virtual School are required to complete the Online Teaching Endorsement.
	Coaching:two courses that will have class meetings, online activities, and field-based activities.
	Teacher Support Specialist (TSS): This endorsement consists of two 5 PLU courses.
	K-5 Mathematics Endorsement: This endorsement consists of 3 courses.
	K-5 Science Endorsement: This endorsement consists of 3 courses.

 

Obtaining an endorsement requires that a teacher hold a clear renewable teaching certificate and have the recommendation of a building level and system level administrator. Some endorsements also require three or more years of teaching experience. It is the candidate’s responsibility to determine qualification and submit required documentation.

 

The level of work expected in an endorsement program is rigorous, and candidates should be prepared to devote an appropriate amount of time outside of class to complete assignment. Each course in an endorsement program is the equivalent of five PLUs (professional learning units).

 

Application to the endorsement program is required before a candidate can be officially enrolled. Candidates are expected to complete assignments in a timely manner, as well as provide feedback through course and program evaluations. In addition, candidates are required to submit an electronic portfolio (CD) as delineated in the instructor’s syllabus at the conclusion of the endorsement program.