Alternative Paths to Teacher Certification
The following are the alternative paths to obtaining a teacher certification in Oklahoma.
Alternative Placement Program (not for early childhood, elementary or special education)
Provides an opportunity for individuals with non-teaching degrees to teach in Oklahoma accredited schools
Alternative Certification for early childhood and/or elementary. Provides bachelor's degree candidates, with certain experience, an opportunity to become certified in early childhood and/or elementary education, before they have taken certification exams. For experience verification, districts should use the D2 District Verification Form - Alternative Early Childhood and Elementary Program. For coursework verification, colleges should use the C2 College Verification Form - Alternative Early Childhood and Elementary Program.
Career Development Program for Paraprofessionals (for early childhood, elementary and special education ONLY)
A path for individuals who are teaching assistants to acquire a teaching certificate
Non-Traditional Special Education Certification Program
Route for individuals who meet certain criteria and interested in obtaining a special education certification
American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE)
A program designed to inspire career changers to enter the teaching field and give them a rigorous and efficient process to achieve their goals
Teach for America
National corps of outstanding recent college graduates and professionals of any area who commit two years to teach in urban and rural public schools
Special Education Micro-credential Pathway
Available to teachers who hold a five-year certificate in mild-moderate disabilities
Instructional video located here: https://youtu.be/tG5S4kwFWHM
Four-Year Olds and Younger Certificate
A path for Child Development Associates in Head Start programs to teach four-year-old and younger students in a public school
