Professional Certificate Program
A Look at the Program...
Who Should Complete a Professional Certificate Program (PCP)?
- On September 1, 2000, a new teacher certificate structure was implemented in the state of Washington. The first-level certificate, called the Residency Certificate, is valid for five years. Teachers who possess a Residency Certificate must complete requirements for the Professional Certificate, within five year or apply for a renewal of the Residency Certificate.
- Teachers who wish to improve their classroom techniques and explore personal growth opportunities.
Admission Requirements
- Valid Residency Teaching Certificate.
- Current employment in a Washington State public or approved private school.
- Completion of provisional status as a teacher. (Note: Teachers may begin a PCP while in provisional status, but will not be considered officially admitted into the PCP until provisional status is successfully completed. However, admission of teachers on provisional status will not obligate WSU to officially admit the teacher at a later time).
- Applicants wishing to pursue a master's degree along with their Professional Certificate must meet the admission criteria of the WSU Graduate School and the Department of Teaching and Learning.
Note: Out-of-state teachers who do not qualify for the Professional Certificate may request a review of their qualifications.
Teachers who have completed Washington State approved PCP courses at other institutions of higher education will be allowed to transfer those credits upon evaluation and approval by the PCP Coordinator.
Professional Growth Team
Teachers will assist in selection of a Professional Growth Team (PGT). The PGT will consist of the teacher, a colleague specified by the teacher, a Washington State University advisor, and a school district representative. The PGT will review the evidence for each standard and make a determination of successful or unsuccessful completion. The PGT assists the teacher in the development of the Professional Growth Plan (PGP).
Pre-Assessment Seminar (3 credits)
Professional Education Seminar, T&L 541
Teachers will identify their Professional Growth Team (PGT) and prepare an initial draft of a Professional Growth Plan. By the end of the course, candidates will submit their completed Professional Growth Plan (PGP).
Core Research and Development (5-6 credits)
Teachers, in collaboration with their PGT, will identify the learning opportunities that will enable them to acquire the competency to demonstrate successful performance of all Professional Certificate standards. These learning opportunities can include university course work, professional conferences, independent study with faculty members, and professional development activities sponsored by outside agencies. WSU offers advanced course work in most content areas, including teaching methods in the content areas as well as courses that address the various standards under effective teaching, professional development, and leadership.
Culminating Seminar (2 credits)
Professional Education Capstone Seminar, T&L 543
The Culminating Seminar provides the opportunity for teachers to synthesize the evidence and supporting materials they will provide in a portfolio to the PGT. Teachers will work in teams to refine their portfolios and provide peer review of portfolio materials. Additionally, the Culminating Seminar will conclude with a review of the requirements for certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
Successful Program Completion
To complete the Professional Certificate Program teachers must provide evidence of meeting the Professional Certificate Standards. Successful completion will be based on the standards outlined in WAC 180-78A-540 and as included in the OSPI Professional Certificate materials. This evidence includes the following:
- Professional Growth Plan
- Positive Impact Plan
- Family Involvement Plan
- Comprehensive Learning Instructional Plan
- Classroom Inquiry/Action Research Plan
- Classroom Inquiry/Reflective Analysis Plan
- Leadership Activities Plan
- Advocacy Statement
- Other evidence identified by the teacher and Professional Growth Team (PGT)
Questions?
If you still have questions regarding the Washington State University Professional Certificate Program please contact:
Helen M. Berry
Teaching & Learning
Educational Leadership & Counseling Psychology
2710 University Drive
Richland, WA 99354-1671
(509) 372-7396
FAX (509) 372-7555
hberry@tricity.wsu.edu
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