For individuals passionate about education but seeking non-traditional routes to the classroom, West Virginia offers an innovative “Option 3” pathway to obtaining a Professional Teaching Certificate. This alternative, established through Senate Bill 14, recognizes pedagogical training programs outside of traditional university settings, providing a flexible approach to career path planning for aspiring educators. This guide delves into the details of Option 3, outlining approved standards and recognized coursework providers to help you navigate your path to teaching in West Virginia.
Understanding West Virginia’s Option 3 for Teacher Certification
West Virginia’s commitment to diverse educational pathways is evident in Option 3, a route designed for individuals who may not have followed a conventional teacher education program. This option centers on rigorous pedagogical training aligned with nationally recognized standards, ensuring that educators entering the profession through this route are well-prepared and effective.
The foundation of Option 3 lies in successfully completing pedagogical training that adheres to standards approved by the West Virginia Board of Education (WVBE). These standards are meticulously chosen to reflect best practices in teaching and learning.
WVBE Approved Pedagogical Standards: Setting the Bar for Excellence
To ensure high-quality instruction in West Virginia classrooms, the WVBE has endorsed specific pedagogical standards that Option 3 programs must meet. These standards provide a framework for effective teaching and guide the curriculum of approved programs. Currently, the WVBE recognizes two primary sets of standards:
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West Virginia Professional Teaching Standards (WVPTS): These standards, detailed in Policy 5310, emphasize key areas of teacher performance evaluation, ensuring educators are proficient in classroom management, instructional delivery, and professional conduct.
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Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (INTASC) Standards: Nationally recognized and respected, the INTASC Standards provide a comprehensive framework for effective teaching, focusing on areas such as learner development, learning differences, learning environments, content knowledge, application of content, assessment, planning for instruction, instructional strategies, professional learning and ethical practice, and leadership and collaboration.
These standards serve as benchmarks for evaluating and approving pedagogical training programs under Option 3, guaranteeing that educators certified through this route possess the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles.
WVBE Recognized Coursework Providers: Your Gateway to Certification
The WVBE has diligently approved a selection of coursework providers that offer programs aligned with the aforementioned pedagogical standards. These providers offer diverse program formats, primarily online, catering to the needs of individuals seeking flexible and accessible routes to teacher certification. Let’s explore the currently recognized providers:
American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence Program (American Board)
Approved by the WVBE in September 2021, the American Board program provides a state-approved, entirely online initial teacher certification pathway. This program is designed for specific endorsement areas and offers a self-paced learning environment, typically completed within seven to ten months. Notably, the American Board program does not require traditional student teaching.
Key Features of the American Board Program:
- Online and Self-Paced: Offers flexibility for working professionals or individuals with other commitments.
- State-Approved: Meets West Virginia’s rigorous standards for teacher certification under Option 3.
- Specific Endorsement Areas: Focuses on high-demand subjects like Biology, Chemistry, English, Elementary Education, General Science, Mathematics, Physics, and Social Studies, including multi-categorical special education endorsements.
- No College Credit: As American Board is not affiliated with a higher education institution, coursework does not translate to college credit.
- No Student Teaching Required: Streamlines the certification process by omitting the clinical experience requirement.
Endorsement Areas Offered by American Board:
- Biology 9-Adult
- Chemistry 9-Adult
- English 5-9
- English 5-Adult
- Elementary Education K-6
- General Science 5-9
- General Science 5-Adult
- Algebra I 5-Adult
- General Math Through Algebra I 5-9
- Mathematics 5-Adult
- Physics 9-Adult
- Social Studies 5-9
- Social Studies 5-Adult
- Multi-Categorical (E/BD, MI, SLD, excluding Autism) K-6
- Multi-Categorical (E/BD, MI, SLD, excluding Autism) 5-Adult
For more information, visit the American Board homepage.
iTeachWESTVIRGINIA (iTeach)
Approved in April 2022, iTeachWESTVIRGINIA provides another state-approved, online initial teacher certification program with a broad range of endorsement areas. This program emphasizes a structured, linear curriculum with mastery-based assessments. While also not offering direct college credit, iTeach has pathways for graduates to potentially earn master’s degree credit at the American College of Education.
Key Features of iTeachWESTVIRGINIA:
- Comprehensive Endorsement Options: Offers a wide array of subject areas and grade levels, including specialized fields like Art, Business Education, World Languages, and Special Education.
- CAEP Accredited: Demonstrates a commitment to quality and rigor through accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
- Structured Online Curriculum: Features a linear progression through six instructional courses, ensuring a systematic learning experience.
- Mastery-Based Assessment: Requires an 80% or higher on each assessment and a score of two or higher on each assignment to progress.
- Potential for Master’s Credit: Offers a pathway to earn up to 12 hours of master’s credit at the American College of Education.
- No Clinical Experience Required: Similar to American Board, student teaching is not mandatory.
Endorsement Areas Offered by iTeachWESTVIRGINIA:
- Algebra I 5-Adult
- Art PreK-Adult
- Biology 9-Adult
- Business Education 5-Adult (9-Adult is no longer offered)
- Chemistry 9-Adult
- Chinese PreK-Adult
- Early Childhood Education K-4
- Early Education PreK-K
- Earth and Space Science 5-Adult
- Elementary Education K-6
- English 5-9
- English 5-Adult
- English as a Second Language PreK-Adult
- Family and Consumer Science 5-Adult
- French PreK-Adult
- General Mathematics through Algebra I 5-9
- General Science 5-9
- General Science 5-Adult
- Geometry 5-Adult
- German PreK-Adult
- Health PreK-Adult
- Japanese PreK-Adult
- Latin PreK-Adult
- Marketing 9-Adult
- Mathematics 5-Adult
- Music PreK-Adult
- Oral Communications 9-Adult
- Physical Education PreK-Adult
- Physics 9-Adult
- Russian PreK-Adult
- Social Studies 5-9
- Social Studies 5-Adult
- Spanish PreK-Adult
- Technology Education 5-Adult
- Wellness PreK-Adult
- Intellectual Disabilities K-6
- Intellectual Disabilities 5-Adult
- Multi-Categorical (E/BD, MI, SLD, excluding Autism) K-6
- Multi-Categorical (E/BD, MI, SLD, excluding Autism) 5-Adult
Explore the iTeachWESTVIRGINIA website for more details.
MathTrack
MathTrack, approved in February 2024, specializes in mathematics teacher certification for grades 5-Adult. This online program offers two tracks: one with and one without a residency experience. While not nationally accredited, MathTrack provides focused training in both mathematics content and pedagogy.
Key Features of MathTrack:
- Mathematics Focus: Specifically designed for aspiring mathematics teachers in grades 5-Adult.
- Two Tracks Available: Offers flexibility with or without a residency (student teaching) component.
- Online Delivery: Provides accessible and convenient coursework.
- Content and Pedagogy Training: Integrates both subject matter expertise and effective teaching methods.
- No College Credit: Coursework does not currently result in college credit.
Endorsement Area Offered by MathTrack:
- Mathematics 5-Adult
Visit MathTrack to learn more about their program.
New Jersey Center for Teaching and Learning (NJCTL)
Approved in April 2024, NJCTL offers online initial teacher certification programs focused on science and mathematics disciplines. NJCTL recently achieved initial accreditation from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), signaling its commitment to program quality. Like other Option 3 providers, NJCTL does not offer college credit for its coursework.
Key Features of NJCTL:
- Science and Mathematics Specialization: Focuses on preparing teachers in high-demand STEM fields.
- AAQEP Accreditation: Demonstrates a commitment to quality educator preparation.
- Online and Flexible: Provides accessible online learning.
- Content and Pedagogy Integration: Combines subject matter knowledge with effective teaching strategies.
- No College Credit: Coursework is not currently for college credit.
Endorsement Areas Offered by NJCTL:
- Mathematics 5-Adult
- General Mathematics Through Algebra I 5-9
- Physics 9-Adult
- Biology 9-Adult
- Chemistry 9-Adult
- General Science 5-Adult
Explore the NJCTL website for further information.
Teach For America Appalachia (TFAA)
Approved in March 2023, Teach For America Appalachia offers a unique blend of in-person and online training for initial teacher certification. TFAA participants commit to teaching in underserved communities in the Appalachian region. This program includes a practicum experience and two years of ongoing support.
Key Features of Teach For America Appalachia:
- Social Impact Focus: Mission-driven program focused on addressing educational inequity in Appalachia.
- Blended Learning Model: Combines online pre-work with in-person practicum and professional development.
- Practicum Experience: Provides hands-on classroom experience as a core program component.
- Two Years of Support: Offers ongoing mentorship and professional development after the practicum.
- No College Credit: Program coursework does not result in college credit.
Endorsement Areas Offered by Teach For America Appalachia:
- Algebra I 5-Adult (AD)
- American Sign Language PreK-AD
- Art PreK-AD
- Biology 9-AD
- Business Education 5-AD
- Business Education/Marketing 5-AD
- Chemistry 9-AD
- Chemistry/Physics 9-AD
- Chinese PreK-AD
- Earth and Space Science 5-AD
- Early Childhood Education K-4
- Elementary Education K-6
- English 5-AD
- English as a Second Language PreK-AD
- French PreK-AD
- General Math through Algebra I 5-9
- General Science 5-AD
- Geometry 5-AD
- German PreK-AD
- Health PreK-AD
- Japanese PreK-AD
- Latin PreK-AD
- Marketing 9-AD
- Mathematics (Comprehensive) 5-AD
- Music PreK-AD
- Oral Communications 5-AD
- Physical Education PreK-AD
- Physics 9-AD
- Russian PreK-AD
- Social Studies 5-AD
- Spanish PreK-AD
- Technology Education 5-AD
- Wellness PreK-AD
- Emotional/Behavioral Disorders K-6
- Emotional/Behavioral Disorders 5-AD
- Intellectual Disabilities K-6
- Intellectual Disabilities 5-AD
- Multi-Categorical K-6
- Multi-Categorical 5-AD
- Specific Learning Disabilities K-6
For comprehensive details, visit the Teach For America website.
Teach-Now Teacher Preparation Certification Program (Teach-Now) at Moreland University
Teach-Now, approved in October 2021 and offered through Moreland University, provides an online initial teacher certification program with a clinical experience (student teaching) requirement. Moreland University holds national accreditation, offering the potential for college credit and master’s degree pathways.
Key Features of Teach-Now at Moreland University:
- Nationally Accredited University: Moreland University’s accreditation provides credibility and potential for degree advancement.
- Clinical Experience Required: Includes student teaching, offering practical classroom immersion.
- Potential for College Credit: Coursework may be eligible for college credit through Moreland University.
- Master’s Degree Options: Offers pathways to pursue a master’s degree in education.
- Online and Flexible: Provides online learning with varied endorsement areas.
Endorsement Areas Offered by Teach-Now:
- Chinese 5-Adult
- Elementary Education K-6
- English 5-9
- English 5-Adult
- English as a Second Language PreK-Adult
- General Science 5-9
- General Science 5-Adult
- Japanese 5-Adult
- Mathematics (Comprehensive) 5-Adult
- Social Studies 5-Adult
- Spanish 5-Adult
- Multi-Categorical (E/BD, MI, SLD, excluding Autism) K-6
- Multi-Categorical (E/BD, MI, SLD, excluding Autism) 5-Adult
Explore the Teach-Now program at Moreland University for more information.
Navigating Your Option 3 Career Path
Choosing the right Option 3 provider depends on your individual needs and career goals. Consider factors such as:
- Endorsement Area: Ensure the provider offers certification in your desired subject and grade level.
- Program Format: Determine if an online, blended, or in-person program best suits your learning style and schedule.
- Clinical Experience: Decide if you prefer a program with or without required student teaching.
- Accreditation and College Credit: Evaluate the importance of national accreditation and the potential for earning college credit or pursuing a master’s degree.
- Cost and Time Commitment: Compare program fees and completion timelines.
Important Considerations:
- Background Checks: All applicants for West Virginia teacher licensure must undergo state and federal background checks.
- Citizenship/Immigration Status: Applicants must meet WVBE Policy 5202 requirements regarding U.S. citizenship or qualifying immigration documentation.
- WVBE Policy 5202 and Licensure Testing Directory: Familiarize yourself with WVBE Policy 5202 and the West Virginia Licensure Testing Directory for complete and up-to-date licensure requirements.
Disclaimer: The WVDE is not affiliated with any of the listed program providers and is not responsible for program experiences or outcomes. Contact providers directly for program details and costs.
Option 3 offers a valuable alternative pathway for those seeking a fulfilling career in education in West Virginia. By carefully researching approved programs and understanding the requirements, you can effectively plan your career path and embark on a rewarding journey in teaching.
