How Virginia Alternative
Route to Licensure Works
How Does Virginia Alternative Route to Licensure Work?
The state of Virginia offers anyone who wants to become a licensed teacher an Alternative Route to Licensure (ARL) without needing the traditional teaching background. This pathway is designed to attract talented professionals from diverse backgrounds who are interested in switching to a career in education. These programs provide a streamlined pathway for professionals looking to switch careers and bring diverse experiences into the classroom.
ARL programs help address teacher shortages by tapping into a broader pool of potential educators. Teachers from non-traditional backgrounds bring unique perspectives and skills to the education system, enriching the learning environment for students. Many ARL programs offer flexible schedules that allow candidates to balance their studies with other commitments.
ARL Program Requirements
To pursue an Alternative Route to Licensure in Virginia, candidates must meet specific criteria to ensure they are adequately prepared for the teaching profession. These requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree: Virginia ARL applicants must have a valid Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale 2.5 Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale is the standard. However, the admissions committee and state director in consultation with the school divisions may consider a waiver from the GPA standard for candidates upon request.
- Content Knowledge: Demonstrated content knowledge through coursework, passing exam scores, or related experience.
How to Become a Fully Licensed Teacher in Virginia Through Alternative Teacher Licensure
Apply and Get Accepted
The first step in finding the right ARL program that aligns with your career goals is to apply for the program. Find out what you need for the application process and organize your documents. Getting accepted is easier when you prepare before you apply.
Begin Your ARL
Once you’re approved, you’ll begin your training, which typically includes both coursework and practical teaching experience. This phase will prepare you for the classroom and empower you with essential teaching skills. Throughout this training period, you will engage in various educational activities that are designed to build your instructional capabilities and pedagogical knowledge, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle diverse classroom situations effectively.
Find a Teaching Position
Candidates must secure a teaching position in a Virginia school. Many ARL programs assist with job placement or have partnerships with local school districts to facilitate this process. Securing a teaching position is crucial, as it provides the practical experience necessary for developing classroom management skills and applying instructional strategies in a real-world setting.
Pass Your Exams
To become fully licensed, ARL candidates must successfully complete a series of required content exams including:
- PRAXIS Core Academic Skills for Educators: Measures basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
- PRAXIS Subject Assessments: tests knowledge in specific subject areas.
- PRAXIS Teaching Reading: Elementary: ensures that educators can effectively teach reading and support literacy development. This is required for elementary education and special education teachers
Apply for a Ten-Year Renewable License
Upon successful completion of the ARL program and passing all required exams, candidates can apply for a ten-year renewable teaching license in Virginia. This license allows educators to teach in Virginia public schools for a decade, during which time they must meet ongoing professional development requirements to maintain and renew their license. By fulfilling these requirements, teachers ensure they remain current with educational practices and standards, thereby continuing to provide high-quality education to their students.
How iteach’s ARL Program Works in Virginia
iteach offers a comprehensive and flexible pathway to teacher licensure designed to accommodate busy working professionals who don’t have time for a traditional program. The iteach program is delivered entirely online, allowing candidates to complete coursework at their own pace, from anywhere they have internet access.
Iteach is ideal for those balancing work, family, and other commitments. The curriculum covers essential aspects of teaching, including classroom management, instructional strategies, and student assessment, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the classroom.
- Practical experience: Candidates are required to complete a teaching practicum in a real classroom setting, where they can apply their knowledge under the supervision of experienced educators. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing effective teaching practices and gaining confidence in their new roles.
- Mentorship and support: Each candidate is paired with a mentor who offers guidance, feedback, and support throughout the program. This mentorship helps candidates navigate the challenges of transitioning into teaching and develop their instructional skills.
iteach offers two tracks for Virginia educators: first time educators who are seeking a license and teachers on a provisional license who need full licensure.
Applying to iteach
If you’re seeking a teaching position for the first time, you must meet the following requirements to be admitted to iteach:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- A 2.5 minimum undergraduate GPA on a 4.0 scale is the standard (or a 2.5 in your last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework)). However, the admissions committee and state director in consultation with the school divisions may consider a waiver from the GPA standard for candidates upon request.
If you’re on a provisional license seeking full licensure, you’ll need to submit a copy of your provisional license, as well as employment verification.
You’ll need to complete iteach’s introductory course, pay your enrollment fee, and acknowledge your letter of agreement prior to being enrolled in the program.
After Enrollment in iteach
Before you can get hired as a first-time educator, you’ll need to complete course 5000 and 5100 and pass your content exams. You’ll also set up your payment plan with iteach.
You’ll then complete a two-semester residency as a classroom teacher in your content area. You will secure your own job through a partnering division. Your school will provide you with a supervisor to conduct the state requirements for assessing your performance in the classroom.
Before you can complete the program, you’ll also need to complete all your iteach coursework. Here’s the complete list of core coursework.
- TCVA 5000 – Professional Learning and the Path to Certification
- TCVA 5100 – Learning Environments
- TCVA 5200 – Learner Development
- TCVA 5300 – Planning Instruction and Assessment
- TCVA 5400 – Literacy, 21st Century Instruction and Pedagogical Content Knowledge
- TCVA 5500 – Learner Differences and Curricular Adaptation for Special Needs Students
- TCVA 5600 – Diverse Student Populations, English Language Learners, and Bilingual Students
Depending on your certification area, you may need to take some additional courses. Elementary teachers have a specific sequence of courses, as do special education teachers. Middle school teachers must take a course on critical reading and writing instruction.
After you complete your coursework and field experience, as well as fulfill any other requirements from the Virginia DOE, you can apply for your license.
Choosing iteach for Alternative Route to Licensure in Virginia
iteach stands out among ARL programs in Virginia for several reasons. Some of the program highlights include:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers all essential aspects of teaching, from classroom management to instructional strategies.
- Practical Experience: iteach includes a robust field experience component that prepares candidates for real-world teaching.
- Proven Success: iteach has a track record of successfully preparing candidates for teaching careers.
Beyond these primary benefits, iteach’s approach is designed to meet the specific needs of working professionals. Competitive pricing makes iteach an affordable choice for many aspiring teachers.
Ready to make a difference in the lives of students? Apply today to iteach.