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?
Six weeks prior to the meeting. For example, if the board meeting
is scheduled for August 1, your portfolio must be received in
its entirety by June 20. 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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