Frequently Asked Questions about Option 1
I have the 10 years exceptional work experience, an academic major (or passing score on applicable academic content assessments) and a 2.5 GPA on my bachelor's, but I don't have a job offer. Can I still apply for Option 1?
No. You must meet all four requirements before you will be considered for the Exceptional Work Experience route to certification.
I have to take the PRAXIS II content assessment for my area. Can I submit my portfolio before I take the test?
No. Passing test scores must be on file before a portfolio can be presented to the board.
How can I get a job offer without certification?
The school districts across Kentucky are aware of the Alternative Routes to Certification programs. Tell the district when you apply that you are pursuing Option 1 - Exceptional Work Experience. If they are interested in you as a serious candidate for the job opening, they will give you a TC-265 form to fill out and the superintendent will sign it to show a conditional offer of employment has been extended.
Can I get a TC-265 form from the EPSB to take to the school district?
No. The TC-265 forms are only given to school district personnel. If you are offered a job, the school district will provide you a TC-265 form.
Will I meet the members of the EPSB before they make a decision concerning my Option 1 application?
No. You will not meet the members of the EPSB face-to-face. The EPSB will "meet" and get to know you through the portfolio you submit, therefore, the more relevant and specific information you include, the better. Be realistic in submitting your materials. Obviously, the EPSB members will have time constraints, so pick and choose the best documents to include in your portfolio.
What is meant by 'Exceptional' Work Experience?
The EPSB regulation governing Option 1 (16 KAR 9:010) defines someone having “Exceptional work experience” to mean “ A person with recognized superiority as compared with others in rank, status, and attainment or superior knowledge and skill in comparison with the generally accepted standards in the area in which certification is sought.” You must be able to demonstrate your extraordinary experiences and skills through your portfolio.
Do I need to attend the EPSB meeting when my portfolio is being reviewed?
No. It is unnecessary for you to attend the EPSB meeting. A member of the EPSB staff will contact you, by letter, with the decision of the EPSB within five to seven days of the meeting.
How often does the EPSB meet?
Board meetings are held in January, March, May, June, August, September, and November.
How far in advance do I need to get my portfolio to the EPSB staff?
By the 1st of the month prior to the meeting. For example, if you would like your portfolio to be considered at the November meeting, we must receive your completed portfolio no later than October 1. If your portfolio arrives incomplete or if staff determines additional clarification or information is required, your portfolio is not guaranteed to be seen at the next month's meeting.
How many pages (how long) should my portfolio be?
Your portfolio should be very comprehensive and very detailed. Please try to limit your portfolio to 50 pages or less. No more than 50 pages will be presented to the board (pages for exclusion will be chosen by EPSB staff). Take the time to fully document your work experience and your expertise in the field. Your resume and supporting materials should demonstrate your superior knowledge and experiences. Make certain you have included all the information needed to show your exceptional work experience and exceptional knowledge. Don't include extraneous or duplicative materials, as board members are under time constraints when reviewing your portfolio. Be choosy and pick the best documentation to illustrate your achievements.
What should my portfolio look like?
You should put the portfolio in the correct order (detailed on the Exceptional Work Experience Portfolio page) and without paper clips, staples, or page covers. Contained within a plain folder is fine.
How long after the meeting before I find out whether my application was approved or denied?
You will be notified, by letter, within five to seven days of the EPSB's decision.
Where do I mail my portfolio?
Education Professional Standards Board
Attn: Alternative Routes Coordinator
100 Airport Rd., Third floor
Frankfort, Kentucky 40601
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