Reading specialists are permitted to be special education teachers; however, the state contended that the reading specialist program is typically offered as a post-baccalaureate one to teachers who already
hold initial teaching certificates.
Once teachers pass the performance assessment, they exchange
their initial teaching certificates for more advanced licenses.
Teacher candidates pursuing
their initial teaching certificate operate today in a robust culture of performance assessment.
The Resident Teacher Certification program provides
an initial teaching certificate across two academic years and three summers.
Out of state candidates can apply for
an initial teaching certificate if they hold a valid teaching license issued by another state.