Chapter 505-2 CERTIFICATION

Rule 505-2-.01 Georgia Educator Certification

Summary: State certification terminology and requirements vary widely between states and are often confusing to many applicants. Some states use the term "licensure" while others use "certification." The same title, such as "provisional," may be used in a number of states, but with different definitions and requirements. Many applicants assume that "reciprocity" means an automatic "even trade" for an out-of-state certificate, but that is rarely the case. Georgia reciprocity applies to initial certification. Once an educator holds certification in Georgia, the educator must meet Georgia requirements to add a field, upgrade the level and maintain certification. The certification system used in the State of Georgia is the responsibility of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) and published on the GaPSC web site at https://www.gapsc.com/Commission/Rules/home.aspx.

(2)

Definitions.

(a)

Georgia Educator:

1.	A Georgia educator for certification purposes is any individual currently or previously employed by a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) while holding a certificate issued by the GaPSC.

(b)

Initial Certificate:

1.	A Georgia educator's first certificate confirming completion of all Georgia requirements for certificate issuance in a teaching, service or leadership field.

(c)

Base Certificate:

1.	The base certificate is the initial certificate issued in a specific content area confirming completion of all Georgia requirements for certificate issuance at the time of application.

(d)

Local Unit of Administration (LUA):

1.

A local unit of administration (LUA) is a local education agency or a regional educational service agency, including but not limited to public, waiver, strategic waiver system, charter system or charter schools and private schools (i.e., faith-based schools, early learning centers, hospitals, juvenile detention centers, etc.). State agencies and public and private institutions of higher education requiring certification for employment purposes are included in this definition.

(3)

GaPSC Members. The eighteen (18) members of the GaPSC are responsible for establishing and administering rules and standards for the preparation, certification and discipline of Georgia school personnel. Members are appointed by the governor and include nine (9) classroom teachers, two (2) administrators, two (2) higher education faculty, two (2) local Board of Education members and three (3) business and community leaders.

(4)

Legal Authority. Georgia law, O.C.G.A. 2-2-200, stipulates that "The Professional Standards Commission shall provide, by regulation, for certifying and classifying all certificated professional personnel employed in the public schools of this state. No such personnel shall be employed in the public schools of this state unless they hold certificates issued by the commission certifying their qualifications and classification in accordance with such regulations."

(a)	Certificated professional personnel are individuals who hold certificates, licenses, or permits issued by the GaPSC.

(b)

Teachers, service personnel, educational leaders, and all other professional education personnel that have regular contact with students in an instructional setting must hold GaPSC certification or licensure if employed in a Georgia public school, unless exempted pursuant to a charter under O.C.G.A. 20-2-2065, or increased flexibility under O.C.G.A. 20-2-80.

(5)

Charter System or Charter School Educators. Georgia charter system or charter school educators may, or may not, be required to hold state certification depending on the policy outlined in the specific charter. Charter system or charter school educators who meet the criteria outlined in Section (4)(b) above are, however, required to hold a Clearance Certificate. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE.

(6)

Strategic Waiver System. Strategic Waiver systems may, or may not, be required to hold state certification depending on the policy outlined in the contract. Educators employed by these systems who meet the criteria outlined in Section (4)(b) above are, however, required to hold a Clearance Certificate. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE.

(7)	Private School Educators. Georgia private school educators may, or may not, be required to hold state certification depending on the local school policy.

(8)	Substitute Teachers. Substitute teachers in Georgia are not required to hold state certification. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.20 SUBSTITUTE TEACHING.

(9)

NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Georgia is an active member of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC). As such, Georgia has signed the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement (commonly referred to as reciprocity) with all 49 other states, the District of Columbia and other NASDTEC jurisdictions. Information on how the Interstate Agreement may apply is found in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.21 CERTIFICATION BY INTERSTATE RECIPROCITY. Georgia also participates in the NASDTEC National Clearinghouse and reports state disciplinary actions imposed against certificate holders to this national database. Additional information on the Interstate Agreement and the Clearinghouse may be found on the web at www.nasdtec.org.

(10)

Background Check Requirement. A state criminal background check is required for a Pre-Service certificate and verified by the GaPSC as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.03. Although state and federal criminal background checks are not part of the certification process in Georgia other than as required for a Pre-Service certificate, FBI background checks (fingerprint) are required for professional employment in Georgia public, private, waiver, strategic waiver system, charter system or charter schools. Georgia criminal background checks are also required every five (5) years for certificate renewal and affirmed by the employing school or school system.

(11)

Educator Responsibility. It is the responsibility of the individual educator to meet all requirements and to obtain and maintain a valid Georgia educator certificate or license. If rules change that impact an educator's certification, it is the responsibility of the educator to apply to the commission by submission of a new application requesting evaluation under the new rule. Certification issued based on a rule revision shall not be issued prior to the effective date of the revised rule.

(12)

Tiered Certification. Georgia participates in a tiered teacher certification system. Tiered teacher certification is envisioned as a means of improving student learning by recognizing the unique developmental needs of teachers at every career stage and by encouraging and supporting continuous teacher growth. It is designed to provide support to new teachers and those preparing to become teachers, and to establish a fair and equitable environment for growth for practicing teachers. Tiered certification also creates career advancement opportunities for teachers aspiring to assume leadership responsibilities and contribute to school improvement efforts while remaining in the classroom.

(a)

When fully implemented, tiered certification will help foster an environment in which:

1.	Educators are focused on the academic growth of their students by focusing on their own academic growth;

2.

The conditions and resources necessary for teacher professional growth and retention at each career stage are identified, valued and provided through individualized, ongoing and collaboratively designed and delivered professional learning activities focused on the common goal of improving student learning;

3.	Expert teachers who can contribute to the learning of their peers are provided leadership opportunities to mentor and coach; and

4.	School leaders promote and maintain a positive school culture in which educators are rewarded based on successful performance in the classroom as well as their contributions to the school's learning environment.

(b)

The tiered certification structure consists of the following:

1.	Pre-Service (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.03 PRE-SERVICE CERTIFICATE);

2.	Provisional (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE);

3.	Induction (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE);

4.	Professional (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE);

5.	Advanced Professional (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.06 ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE); and

6.	Lead Professional (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.07 LEAD PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(13)	Routes to Certification. An explanation of the various routes to Georgia certification may be found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.02 Classification

(1)	Summary: Certification is classified according to category, title, type, field and level. The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) has authorized the issuance of certificates under the following classification system:

(2)

Categories. Certificates are grouped under two (2) major categories based upon requirements needed for continued certification. The categories are: Renewable and Non-Renewable.

(a)	Renewable certificate validity varies by title and type. During the validity period, the educator must satisfy renewal requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS and/or any additional requirements outlined in the rule appropriate to the certificate title and type.

(b)	Non-Renewable certificates are valid from one (1) to five (5) years, depending on the title and outstanding requirements for certification.

(3)

Titles. Certificate titles identify the subcategories of certificates. There are thirteen (13) titles.

(a)

Standard Professional: The Standard Professional certificate is a Georgia professional certificate title issued to educators with teaching, service and leadership certificate types employed by a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA). Certificate issuance is based upon completion of all requirements for professional certification and applicable Special Georgia Requirements. Standard Professional certificates are identified by the code letters "SR" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

1.

The Standard Professional teaching certificate title indicates that all requirements for professional teaching certification have been met, including applicable Special Georgia Requirements. The Standard Professional teaching certificate is issued to educators who are employed by a Georgia LUA but have not met performance evaluation requirements on the state annual summative performance evaluation or are not evaluated on the statewide evaluation system. Educators holding the Standard Professional teaching certificate who are not evaluated on the statewide evaluation system are evaluated by a school, district or agency approved evaluation system.

2.

The Standard Professional leadership certificate title indicates that all requirements for professional leadership certification have been met, including applicable Special Georgia Requirements. The Standard Professional leadership certificate is issued to Georgia educators completing GaPSC-approved educator preparation programs prior to September 30, 2009. The certificate is also issued to educators applying by reciprocity who meet requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

3.	The Standard Professional service certificate title indicates that all requirements for professional certification in a service field have been met, including applicable Special Georgia Requirements.

(b)

Performance-Based Professional: The Performance-Based Professional certificate is a Georgia professional certificate title issued to educators with teaching and leadership certificate types employed by a Georgia LUA. Certificate issuance is based upon completion of all requirements for professional certification, including applicable Special Georgia Requirements. Performance-Based Professional certificates are identified by the code letters "PR" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

1.	The Performance-Based Professional teaching certificate is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and issued to educators who are employed by a Georgia LUA and evaluated on the statewide evaluation system.

2.	The Performance-Based Professional leadership certificate is issued to educators who have completed GaPSC-approved educator preparation performance-based leadership programs and met applicable Special Georgia Requirements.

3.

Performance-Based certificates issued to educators as a result of a classroom performance-based evaluation system known as the Teacher Performance Assessment Instrument (TPAI) discontinued in 1990 will have the certificate title converted to the Standard Professional certificate on the effective date of this rule. After meeting Performance-Based certificate requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE, these educators will qualify for a Performance-Based Professional certificate.

(c)

Advanced Professional: The Advanced Professional certificate title is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and recognizes teachers with expert classroom practice and professional growth resulting in higher levels of student learning. The Advanced Professional certificate is issued to educators employed by a Georgia LUA. Certificate issuance is based upon completion of all requirements for Advanced Professional certification and applicable Special Georgia Requirements. Advanced Professional certificates are identified by the code letters "AP" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.06 ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(d)

Lead Professional: The Lead Professional certificate title is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and recognizes qualified teachers who promote, support and expand opportunities for teacher leadership in grades P-12 to improve effective classroom practice resulting in higher levels of student learning. The Lead Professional certificate is issued to educators employed by a Georgia LUA. Certificate issuance is based upon completion of all requirements for Lead Professional certification and applicable Special Georgia Requirements. Lead Professional certificates are identified by the code letters "LP" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.07 LEAD PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(e)

Life: The Life certificate title was issued prior to July 1, 1974, to educators eligible under requirements in place at that time. Once issued, the life status remains in effect for an unlimited time for the fields in which it was issued. Applications for higher certificate levels (upgrades) do not alter the life status for fields previously issued. No new life certificates shall be issued nor shall any new fields be added to life certificate holders with the life title. Life certificates are identified by the code letter "D" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.12 LIFE CERTIFICATE).

(f)	Retired Educator: The Retired Educator certificate is issued to retired Georgia educators who have previously held renewable, professional educator certification. Retired Educator certificates are identified by the code letters "R" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE).

(g)

Pre-Service: The Pre-Service certificate title is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and recognizes candidates enrolled in GaPSC-approved educator preparation programs, and participating in field and clinical experiences in Georgia schools. Pre-Service certificates are identified by the code letters "PS" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.03 PRE-SERVICE TEACHING CERTIFICATE).

(h)

Induction: The Induction certificate title is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and provides a statewide structure for the professional development of early career educators and educators new to the state of Georgia and assures the effectiveness of these educators. Certificate issuance is based upon completion of all requirements for Induction certification and applicable Special Georgia Requirements. Induction certificates are identified by the code letter "IN" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE).

(i)

Military Support Certificate: The Military Support certificate is issued to eligible transitioning military veterans and military spouses, allowing completion of certification requirements on a modified timeline. Military Support certificates are identified by the letter "M" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.46 MILITARY SUPPORT CERTIFICATE).

(j)

Non-Renewable Professional: The Non-Renewable Professional certificate title is issued to educators at the request of a Georgia LUA under several different circumstances as outlined in the Non-Renewable Professional rule. Non-Renewable Professional certificates are identified by the code letter "N" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(k)	Provisional: The Provisional certificate is issued to individuals who have satisfied the minimum job-entry level requirements for a specific field. Provisional certificates are identified by the code letter "B" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(l)

International Exchange: The International Exchange certificate title is issued at the request of an employing Georgia LUA to educators certified in other countries who wish to teach in Georgia schools for up to three (3) years. The certificate cannot be renewed or extended. International Exchange certificates are identified by the code letter "X" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.11 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE).

(m)

Waiver: The Waiver certificate title is issued at the request of an employing Georgia LUA and at the discretion of the GaPSC to educators who have not satisfied all certification requirements. Valid for a one (1)-year period, the Waiver certificate is non-renewable. Waiver certificates are identified by the code letter "W" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.13 WAIVER CERTIFICATE).

(4)

Types. Certification types identify eleven (11) school personnel functions: adjunct, clearance, educational interpreter, leadership, Montessori, non-instructional aide, paraprofessional, permit, service, support personnel, and teaching.

(a)

Adjunct License: The Adjunct license is issued at the request of an employing Georgia LUA to individuals with specific knowledge, skills and experience in an engineering, medical, dental, pharmaceutical, veterinarian, legal, accounting or arts profession, or any other professional position approved by the GaPSC or who have instructional experience in a branch of the U.S. military (except for JROTC), or in a GaPSC-accepted accredited college or university. Holders of this certificate are eligible to provide instruction for up to but no more than fifty (50) percent of the school day in specific subjects in grades 6-12 only. These licenses are issued for one (1)-year period and are renewable. These licenses are identified by the letter "J" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.15 ADJUNCT LICENSE).

(b)

Clearance Certificate: The Clearance certificate is issued at the request of the employing Georgia LUA to educators who satisfactorily complete fingerprint and criminal background check requirements and do not have a certificate that is currently under investigation by the GaPSC or revoked or suspended in Georgia or any other state. All educators employed by a Georgia LUA must hold a Clearance Certificate. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE, for the definition of educator as it applies to this certificate. There are no academic requirements necessary to qualify for this certificate. All holders of this certificate are subject to the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators. These certificates are identified by the letter "C" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE).

(c)

Educational Interpreter License: The Educational Interpreter license is issued to individuals who serve as sign language interpreters in schools. It is the responsibility of the Georgia LUA to assure that personnel who provide educational interpreting services, regardless of job title, hold the Educational Interpreter License. The Educational Interpreter License has no assigned level. These licenses are identified by the letters "EI" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-16 EDUCATIONAL INTERPRETER LICENSE).

(d)	Leadership Certificate: The Leadership certificate is issued in fields that prepare an educator to administer or supervise a Georgia LUA, school, or school program. These certificates are identified by the letter "L" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP).

(e)	Montessori Certificate: The Montessori certificate is issued to eligible individuals who teach in Georgia public or private Montessori classrooms. The Montessori certificate is issued in Age Levels identified on the certificate. (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.45 MONTESSORI CERTIFICATE).

(f)

Non-Instructional Aide license: The Non-Instructional Aide license is issued to eligible individuals hired to perform routine non-instructional tasks. The Non-Instructional Aide license has no assigned level. These licenses are identified by the letters "AIDE" (See Rule GaPSC Rule 505-2-.17 NON-INSTRUCTIONAL AIDE LICENSE).

(g)	Paraprofessional license: The Paraprofessional license is issued to eligible individuals hired as Paraprofessionals. The Paraprofessional license has no assigned level. These licenses are identified by the letters "PARA" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.18 PARAPROFESSIONAL LICENSE).

(h)

Permit: The Permit is issued at the request of an employing Georgia LUA to individuals with specific experience in the teaching fields of performing arts (art, music, dance, and drama), foreign language, JROTC, CTAE Specializations, Engineering and Technology, Healthcare Science, and the position of superintendent. These certificates are identified by the letter "P" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.10 PERMIT).

(i)	Service certificate: The Service certificate is issued in fields that prepare an individual to provide support services to students, school personnel, and school operations. These certificates are identified by the letter "S" (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.140 AUDIOLOGY to 505-2-.149 TEACHER LEADERSHIP).

(j)

Support Personnel license: The Support Personnel license is issued at the request of an employing Georgia LUA to individuals who serve in positions of leadership over support functions in the LUA. Such positions include but are not limited to: finance, transportation, public relations, personnel, staff development, facilities, planning, evaluation, research, assessment, and technology coordination. The Support Personnel license has no assigned level. These licenses are identified by the letters "SP" (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.19 SUPPORT PERSONNEL LICENSE).

(k)

Teaching certificate: The teaching certificate is issued in fields that prepare an educator to teach the subject matter offered as a part of the school curriculum. These certificates are identified by the letter "T";

1.

Technical Specialist teaching certificates were issued to eligible educators in the Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) areas of Trade and Industrial Education and Healthcare Science Technology Education prior to the effective date of this rule. These certificates were identified by the letters "TS" but were converted to "T" certificates on the effective date of this rule.

(5)	Fields. Fields identify the specific teaching subject, service function or leadership function authorized by the certificate. Georgia certificate fields are listed on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

(6)

Level. Levels are assigned to Georgia educator certificates based on the degree(s) an educator holds subject to the commission's determined equivalent. Certificates may be assigned one or both of the following types of levels:

(a)

General Level: The general level assigned to a certificate applies to all fields on that certificate, with the possible exception of Educational Leadership fields, as described in part (b) below.

1.

The general level is determined upon initial issuance of a certificate based on the highest degree an educator has been awarded by a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, with the following exception:

(i)	A leadership degree that meets the criteria outlined in part (b) below shall not be used to determine the general level of a certificate.

2.	Once an educator has been issued a certificate that may be upgraded as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE, the general level may only be increased according to the procedures outlined in that rule.

3.	Unless otherwise noted, all references to the "level" of a certificate in GaPSC rules refer to the general level.

4.	College hours beyond a degree are not used to assign the level, except as specifically noted in section (c) below.

(b)

Leader Level: A certificate may be assigned a leader level in addition to a general level. The leader level only applies to any Educational Leadership fields on that certificate. If the general level of a certificate is higher than the leader level, the general level supersedes the leader level for all fields, including any Educational Leadership fields held.

1.

A leader level is assigned to the certificate of any educator who completed a leadership degree, defined in O.C.G.A. 20-2-212 as "a degree earned in conjunction with completion of an educator leadership preparation program approved by the Professional Standards Commission," unless the leadership degree earned meets one of the following exemption criteria:

(i)	The leadership degree was awarded prior to July 1, 2010; or

(ii)

The educator enrolled in the leadership preparation program on or before April 1, 2009, and was awarded one of the following leadership degrees by the dates indicated:

(I)	A master's level [level five (5)] leadership degree prior to July 1, 2012;

(II)	An education specialist level [level six (6)] leadership degree prior to July 1, 2013; or

(III)

A doctoral level [level seven (7)] leadership degree prior to July 1, 2014.

(iii)

The leadership degree was not recognized as GaPSC-accepted preparation for Educational Leadership certification at the time that the educator initially received the General certificate level.

2.	Once a leader level has been assigned to a certificate, it may only be increased according to the procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE.

(c)

General requirements for recognizing certificate levels of education below the bachelor's degree level are:

1.	Level One (1) - completion of a high school diploma or the GED equivalent;

2.

Level Two (2) - completion of an associate's degree or one of the following options:

(i)

Sixty (60) semester hours of acceptable college credit. Note: For certification purposes, the phrase "acceptable college credit" is defined as credits earned at an institution of higher education that holds GaPSC-accepted accreditation with a grade of "C" or higher for each course. Remedial courses, course work taken below the freshman level, and audited courses are not acceptable;

(ii)	A two (2)-year program consisting of a minimum of two thousand (2,000) clock hours earned through a GaPSC-accepted accredited post-secondary vocational/technical school in the field in which certification is requested; or

(iii)

A minimum of twenty-seven (27) semester hours of acceptable college or university credit and a minimum of one thousand (1,000) clock hours earned through a GaPSC-accepted accredited vocational/technical school in the field in which certification is requested.

(d)

General requirements for recognizing initial certificate levels of education at the bachelor's degree level or higher are:

1.	Level Four (4) - completion of a bachelor's degree or the GaPSC's determined degree equivalent. A bachelor's degree is the minimum degree requirement for teaching certification except for Healthcare Science and selected Career and Technical Specializations and Fine Arts Permit fields.

2.	Level Five (5) - completion of a master's degree or the GaPSC's determined degree equivalent. A master's degree is the minimum degree requirement for service fields and non-performance based leadership certification.

3.

Level Six (6) - completion of an education specialist degree or the GaPSC's determined degree equivalent as found on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com or completion of a minimum of thirty-six (36) semester hours of course work required for a level seven (7) doctoral degree and successful completion of the oral and/or written comprehensive examinations or the institution's determined equivalent. A specialist degree is the minimum degree requirement for performance-based leadership certification; and

4.	Level Seven (7) - completion of a Ph.D., Ed.D. or the GaPSC's determined degree equivalent;

(e)

Educators holding a valid level one (1) or two (2) certificate may qualify for a certificate level change to the bachelor's degree level - level four (4) - by earning a bachelor's degree that meets the requirements of GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GAPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION; VALIDATION OF NON-ACCREDITED DEGREES. The procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE do not apply to educators holding level one (1) or two (2) certificates;

(f)

The assignment of a certification level to various degrees is contingent on a valid certificate field being held and the degree being awarded on an official transcript from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution. Certificate levels that are assigned to various degrees and majors may be found on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com;

(g)

Degrees with "doctoral," "doctorate" or "master's" in the degree title are not automatically equivalent to a specific degree level and may result in a determination ranging from level four (4) to level seven (7). The agency commission is responsible for determining what level is assigned to a specific degree; and

(h)	The certificate level, as defined in Georgia, is not a part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement and, therefore, does not transfer from state to state.

Rule 505-2-.03 Pre-Service Teaching Certificate

(1)

Summary. The Pre-Service teaching certificate is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and provides a statewide structure to organize procedures related to pre-service teachers once admitted to certain state-approved educator preparation programs. Such procedures are designed to:

(a)	Assure the safety of school children.

(b)	Provide opportunities for pre-service teachers to practice/demonstrate knowledge and skills.

(c)	Standardize the criminal background check process across the state for pre-service teachers, eliminating those who are not eligible or suited to the profession.

(d)	Assist pre-service educators in understanding the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators and hold them accountable under the Code.

(e)	Require attainment of the Pre-Service certificate for anyone participating in field experiences and student teaching in Georgia schools (to include candidates in Georgia and out-of-state educator preparation programs).

(2)

Requirements. To qualify for the Pre-Service certificate, an applicant must:

(a)

Be admitted to an educator preparation program in the state of Georgia, any other U.S. state or online, which meets the following requirements:

1.	Leads to a Five (5)-Year Induction certificate in a teaching field.

2.	Requires participation in field experiences or clinical practice including student teaching, residency work or any other program requirements in Georgia schools.

(b)

Pass the Georgia Educator Ethics - Program Exit Assessment, with the following exception:

1.	Candidates who have been continuously enrolled in the same educator preparation program since July 1, 2014 or earlier are exempt from this requirement. Note: the term "enrolled" is defined as admitted to a program and actively taking coursework.

2.	The GACE Educator Ethics - Program Entry will continue to be accepted for individuals who previously completed the assessment for program admission. For those individuals, the GACE Educator Ethics - Program Exit must be passed for conversion of the Pre-Service certificate.

(c)	Have a successful Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) criminal record check.

(d)	Must be requested by the educator preparation provider following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification and Application Procedures.

(e)	Not hold a valid Georgia certificate or Permit in a teaching field, or an expired Georgia renewable professional certificate in a teaching field.

(3)

Validity. The Pre-Service certificate is valid for five (5) years, with the following exceptions:

(a)	Invalidated upon program completion.

(b)

Invalidated if an individual withdraws, transfers or is removed from a program.

1.

Previously enrolled candidates who withdraw, transfer or are removed from an educator preparation program and are subsequently readmitted to the program or admitted to a different educator preparation program are eligible for the Pre-Service certificate.

(i)	Under these circumstances the five (5)-year validity period begins again upon readmission and issuance of the new certificate. Requirements in (2) above, must be met after readmission to the educator preparation program in order to reissue the Pre-Service certificate.

(c)	May be extended at the request of the EPP.

(4)

In-Field Statement. Pre-Service certificate holders are in-field to participate in supervised field experience, clinical practice, student teaching, or residency work consistent with the grade levels of certification sought. Individuals holding valid Georgia certificates or Permits in teaching fields are also in-field to participate in these activities. These experiences provide certificate holders with an intensive and extensive culminating activity. Certificate holders are immersed in the learning community and provided opportunities to develop and demonstrate competence in the professional roles for which they are preparing. Holding a Pre-Service certificate, even upon successful completion of an educator preparation program, does not automatically result in movement to the Induction tier in the tiered certification system.

Rule 505-2-.04 Induction Certificate

(1)

Summary: The Induction certificate is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system that provides a statewide structure for the professional development of early career educators and educators new to the state of Georgia and assures the effectiveness of these educators by: (a) confirming an individual has met the minimum requirements for becoming an educator in Georgia; (b) providing a structure of support for early career educators (early career educator is defined as one who is new to the profession with fewer than three [3] years of experience); and (c) requiring individuals to meet certain requirements before attaining a professional certificate.

(2)

Five (5)-Year Induction Requirements.

(a)

Individuals prepared by a Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC)-accepted educator preparation program.

1.	Complete a GaPSC-approved educator preparation program at the appropriate degree level as defined in the applicable teaching or service rule and receive verification of program completion.

2.

Meet the following Special Georgia requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS:

(i)

Attain a passing score on the following assessments:

(I)	GACE content assessment in the field of preparation. If no GACE content assessment is available for the certification field requested, the applicant is exempt from this requirement.

(II)	GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(ii)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iii)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

3.	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Individuals prepared by a state-approved out-of-state provider and fulfilling field and clinical experiences in Georgia.

1.	Complete an educator preparation program through an institution administratively based outside of Georgia at the appropriate degree level as defined in the applicable teaching rule and receive verification of program completion.

2.

Meet the following Special Georgia requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS:

(i)

Attain a passing score on the following assessments:

(I)	GACE content assessment in the field of preparation. If no GACE content assessment is available for the certification field requested, the applicant is exempt from this requirement.

(II)	GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(ii)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iii)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

3.	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(c)

Individuals prepared by a state-approved out-of-state educator preparation program and fulfilled field and clinical experiences out-of-state or by holding a Professional out-of-state certificate with less than three (3) years of successful experience while holding a professional certificate.

1.

Meet one of the following:

(i)	Hold a valid or expired professional out-of-state certificate based on completion of a state-approved educator preparation program at the appropriate degree level as defined in the applicable teaching field rule.

(ii)	Complete an educator preparation program through an institution administratively based outside of Georgia at the appropriate degree level as defined in the applicable teaching rule and receive verification of program completion.

(iii)

Have completed the equivalent of a United States educator preparation program in a U.S. territory or another country, as evidenced by a course-by-course credential evaluation prepared by a GaPSC-accepted foreign credential evaluation agency.

2.

Attain a passing score on the following assessments:

(i)

GACE content assessment in the field(s) of certification. The content assessment may be exempted based on requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS. If no GACE or other GaPSC-approved content assessment is available for the certification field requested, the applicant is exempt from this requirement.

(ii)	GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

3.

Induction certificates may be issued without the Special Education requirement to individuals who completed a state-approved out-of-state program or hold a professional out-of-state certificate; however, the Special Education requirement must be completed with with a grade of B or better to convert or extend the certificate.

(3)

One (1)-Year Induction Requirements.

(a)

Issuance.

1.

Issued to individuals meeting all requirements for the Five (5)-Year Induction certificate with the exception of the GACE content assessment.

(i)	Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(ii)	Must be requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification and Application Procedures.

(4)

Three (3)-Year Induction Requirements.

(a)

Issuance.

1.

Issued to individuals holding a Five (5)-Year Induction or a One (1)-Year Induction certificate and assigned out-of-field.

(i)	Must be requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification and Application Procedures.

(ii)	For Service fields, an individual must satisfy the requirements outlined in the Provisional Certificate section in the individual Service field rule excluding outlined assessments.

(5)

Adding a new field.

(a)	Please see the requirements to add a field in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD.

(6)

Conversion.

(a)

Five (5)-Year Induction to Professional.

1.

Three (3) years of successful educator experience as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(i)	An individual may convert prior to the end validity date of the Five (5)-Year Induction certificate upon meeting the experience requirement.

(b)

Three (3)-Year Induction to Five (5)-Year Induction.

1.

Specific requirements, including required assessments that must be completed to convert the Three (3)-Year Induction certificate will be printed on the certificate and outlined in correspondence accompanying the certificate. Additional information may be found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

(c)

One (1)-Year Induction to Five (5)-Year Induction.

1.	Pass the required assessment(s) for certification in the field of program completion.

(7)

Exceptions.

(a)

The Induction certificate cannot be extended with the following exceptions:

1.

Individuals who have received more than one (1) unsatisfactory annual evaluation while holding the Induction certificate may be eligible for a second Five (5)-Year Induction certificate, at the request of the employing LUA, if it can be demonstrated that the deficiencies evident in the first Induction period have been remediated. Earning a second Induction certificate in these circumstances would be a one-time opportunity that could not be repeated.

2.	Individuals holding a One (1)-Year Induction certificate with a Three (3)-Year Induction certificate to teach out-of-field may convert and extend the certificates to full validity once assessment requirements are met to convert the One (1)-Year Induction certificate.

(b)

An individual who has previously held an Induction Pathway 1, 2 or 3 certificate may apply for a Five (5)-Year Induction certificate by meeting the following requirements:

1.	Has earned less than three (3) years of successful educator experience within five (5) years of the date of application.

2.	Has passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(8)

Restrictions.

(a)

The One (1)-Year Induction certificate is not available to candidates who have completed field and clinical experiences in Georgia as part of a state-approved educator preparation program and obtained professional certification in another state by submitting Georgia experience earned while holding a Non-Professional certificate.

(b)	The One (1)-Year Induction certificate is not available to individuals who held/hold a Provisional certificate or equivalent and have completed all program requirements except passing the GACE content assessment.

Rule 505-2-.05 Professional Certificate

(1)

Summary: The Professional certificate is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and provides a statewide structure to ensure that classroom teachers meet minimum requirements and satisfy state teacher effectiveness requirements as defined in the state teacher evaluation system. The Professional certificate is also issued in service and leadership fields to educators meeting professional requirements as outlined in the individual field rules. Georgia issues two (2) types of renewable Professional certificates: Standard and Performance-Based.

(2)

Professional Requirements.

(a)

Standard Professional teaching certificate: The Standard Professional teaching certificate is intended for those individuals evaluated by a school, district, or agency-approved evaluation system and not evaluated by the statewide evaluation system. It is issued to individuals who do not meet the requirements for the Performance-Based Professional teaching certificate but do meet the following requirements:

1.

For individuals applying by reciprocity, meet the following requirements:

(i)

Hold a valid or expired out-of-state professional certificate at the bachelor's degree level or higher, with three (3) or more years of successful experience as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS. Experience must have been earned while holding a professional educator certificate or a non-professional certificate that was subsequently converted to professional status in the state, field and grade level of experience.

(ii)

Meet the following Special Georgia requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS:

(I)	Pass or exempt the GACE content assessment.

(II)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

A.	Certificate may be issued prior to completion of this requirement; however, the course must be satisfied as part of requirements to renew or convert the certificate.

(III)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

For individuals holding an Induction certificate, meet the following requirements:

(i)	Have three (3) full years of successful experience while holding the Induction certificate.

(ii)

Meet or have met the following Special Georgia requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS:

(I)	Pass or exempt the GACE content assessment.

(II)	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(III)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(IV)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.

For individuals holding a Provisional or previously issued equivalent type certificate, meet the following requirements:

(i)	Complete a GaPSC-accepted educator preparation program.

(ii)	Have three (3) full years of successful experience while holding the Provisional or previously issued equivalent type certificate.

(iii)

Meet the following Special Georgia requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS:

(I)	Pass or exempt the GACE content assessment.

(II)	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(III)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(IV)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iv)	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)	The Standard Professional Service certificate is issued in service fields to individuals meeting the requirements outlined in the GaPSC rule appropriate to the specific service field (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.140 AUDIOLOGY through 505-2 .149 TEACHER LEADERSHIP).

(c)	The Standard Professional Leadership certificate is issued in the field of Educational Leadership to individuals meeting the requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

(d)	For Healthcare Science and Career and Technical Specializations, complete requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCEINCE and 505-2-.90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS, and meet requirements in (2)(a) above.

(e)

Performance-Based Professional certificate: The Performance-Based Professional teaching certificate is intended for those teachers evaluated by the Georgia statewide evaluation system.

1.

Educators must meet the following requirements:

(i)	Complete requirements to qualify for the Standard Professional certificate.

(ii)

Have a minimum of three (3) years of successful educator experience (as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS). All three (3) years must have been earned in a Georgia school with a summative performance rating of "Proficient" or "Exemplary" while being evaluated on the Teacher Assessment on Performance Standards (TAPS) component of the statewide evaluation system, Teacher Keys Effectiveness System (TKES).

(iii)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iv)	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.	The Performance-Based Professional Leadership certificate is issued in the field of Educational Leadership to individuals meeting the requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

(f)	Official implementation of TKES began with the 2014-2015 school year, after a two-year pilot period. Successful experience to qualify for the Performance-Based Professional certificate outlined in (2) (e) above begins with the 2014-2015 school year.

(3)	Non-Renewable Professional Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(4)

Renewal.

(a)	The Standard Professional teaching certificate and Performance-Based Professional teaching certificate may be renewed by satisfying requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS.

(5)

Restrictions.

(a)

Individuals who have received any combination of two (2) "Unsatisfactory", "Ineffective" or "Needs Development" annual performance summative evaluations in the previous five (5)-year period shall not be entitled to a renewable certificate prior to demonstrating such performance deficiency has been satisfactorily remediated (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.43 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION).

(6)

Validity.

(a)

Professional certificates are valid for five (5) years with the following exceptions:

1.	A Performance-Based Professional certificate issued to replace a valid Standard Professional certificate is only valid for the remaining validity period of the Standard Professional certificate being replaced.

2.	The standard validity period may be decreased by the number of years for which the educator has held a Non-Renewable certificate or license, including a Waiver certificate, in the same field.

Rule 505-2-.06 Advanced Professional Certificate

(1)	Purpose. The Advanced Professional certificate is a renewable certificate that is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and provides a statewide structure to recognize expert classroom practice and professional growth resulting in higher levels of student learning.

(2)

Requirements. The Advanced Professional certificate is issued to educators holding a valid Georgia professional teaching certificate meeting the requirements outlined below.

(a)

Have earned a minimum of ten (10) years of successful educator experience, as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, while holding a Georgia professional teaching certificate and/or out-of-state professional teaching certificate;

1.	A maximum of three (3) years of successful experience on an Induction or Permit certificate may be used toward meeting the ten (10) year total;

(b)	Have earned three (3) years of successful experience in the state of Georgia within five (5) years preceding the date of application while holding a professional teaching certificate;

(c)	Meet Georgia's Standards of Conduct;

(d)

Hold one of the following:

1.	Advanced degree in any teaching field held by the educator beyond an initial preparation program and reflected on the Georgia educator certificate as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE;

2.	Valid professional certificate in Curriculum and Instruction or Instructional Technology; or

3.	Valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification; and

(e)	Request the certificate according to procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(3)

Renewal.

(a)

The Advanced Professional certificate may be renewed by meeting the following requirements:

1.	Satisfy professional learning requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS; or

2.	Hold a valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification; and

3.

Have a minimum of one (1) year of successful teaching experience in Georgia earned within five (5) years of the date of renewal; while holding the Advanced Professional certificate and with a summative performance rating of proficient or exemplary on the Teacher Assessment on Performance Standards (TAPS) component of the statewide evaluation system, Teacher Keys Effectiveness System (TKES). If an educator is not evaluated on the statewide evaluation system, a satisfactory summative annual performance rating is required;

4.	Meet Georgia's Standards of Conduct; and

5.	Request renewal of the certificate according to procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Educators who have received any combination of two (2) "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective" or "Needs Development" annual performance evaluations in the preceding five (5)-year certificate validity period shall not be entitled to a renewable certificate prior to demonstrating such performance deficiency has been satisfactorily remediated but may apply to the GaPSC for the appropriate non-renewable certificate as defined by the GaPSC. (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.43 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION):

1.

Upon successful remediation as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.43 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION, the educator may apply for the appropriate professional certificate if all other renewal requirements are met. The Advanced Professional certificate title will be lost.

(i)

In order to qualify for the Advanced Professional certificate after it is lost, an educator must earn a minimum of five (5) years of successful educator experience, as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS while holding a Georgia professional teaching certificate issued after the Advanced Professional title was lost and within five (5) years preceding the date of application to reinstate the Advanced Professional title.

(c)

If an educator has received one (1) "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective" or "Needs Development" annual performance rating during the validity period of the certificate, he or she may apply for the appropriate professional certificate if all other renewal requirements are met. The Advanced Professional certificate title will be lost.

(i)

In order to qualify for the Advanced Professional certificate after it is lost, an educator must earn a minimum of five (5) years of successful educator experience, as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS while holding a Georgia professional teaching certificate issued after the Advanced Professional title was lost and within five (5) years preceding the date of application to reinstate the Advanced Professional title.

(d)

If an educator fails to meet one of the renewal requirements outlined in (4)(a)1, 2, 3 and 4 above, he or she may apply for a one (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE). Upon completion of all renewal requirements, the educator may apply for the appropriate professional certificate.

(4)

Validity

(a)

The standard validity period of the Advanced Professional certificate is five (5) years, with the following exceptions:

1.	An Advanced Professional certificate issued to an educator holding a valid renewable professional certificate is only valid for the remaining validity period of the existing professional certificate; and

2.	The standard validity period may be decreased by the number of years for which the educator has held a Non-Renewable certificate, including a Waiver certificate, in the same field.

Rule 505-2-.07 Lead Professional Certificate

(1)

Purpose. The Lead Professional certificate is part of Georgia's tiered teacher certification system and provides a statewide structure to promote, support, and expand opportunities for teacher leadership in grades P-12 to improve effective classroom practice resulting in higher levels of student learning.

(2)

Requirements. The Lead Professional certificate is a renewable certificate issued to educators holding a valid, professional Georgia teaching certificate and meeting the requirements outlined below:

(a)

Satisfy one of the following:

1.	Hold a valid, Georgia Advanced Professional certificate; or

2.

Have earned a minimum of five (5) years of successful educator experience, as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, while holding a Georgia professional teaching certificate and/or out-of-state professional teaching certificate. Three (3) years of successful experience must be earned in the state of Georgia within five (5) years preceding the date of application while holding a professional teaching certificate;

(b)	Receive ratings of satisfactory, proficient or exemplary on the annual summative performance evaluation while holding a Georgia professional teaching certificate.

(c)	Meet Georgia's Standards of Conduct;

(d)

Hold one of the following:

1.	Valid, renewable professional Teacher Leadership Certification;

2.

Advanced degree in any teaching field held by the educator beyond an initial preparation program and reflected on the Georgia educator certificate as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE and hold a valid, renewable professional endorsement in one of the following: Teacher Leader, Coaching, or Teacher Support and Coaching;

3.	Valid, renewable professional certification in Curriculum and Instruction or Instructional Technology and hold a valid, renewable professional endorsement in one of the following: Teacher Leader, Coaching or Teacher Support and Coaching; or

4.	Valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification and hold a valid, renewable professional endorsement in one of the following: Teacher Leader, Coaching, or Teacher Support and Coaching;

(e)	Pass the Teacher Leadership GACE; and

(f)	Request the certificate according to procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(3)

Renewal.

(a)

The Lead Professional certificate may be renewed by meeting the following requirements:

1.	Satisfy professional learning requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS; or

2.	Hold a valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification; and

3.	Have a minimum of one (1) year of successful teaching experience in Georgia, earned within five (5) years of the date of renewal;

4.	Meet Georgia Standards of Conduct; and

5.	Request renewal of the certificate according to procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Educators who have received any combination of two (2) "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective" or "Needs Development" annual performance evaluations in the previous five (5)-year period shall not be entitled to a renewable certificate prior to demonstrating such performance deficiency has been satisfactorily remediated but may apply to the GaPSC for the appropriate non-renewable certificate as defined by the GaPSC. (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-43 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION):

1.

Upon successful remediation as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.43 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION, the educator may apply for the appropriate professional certificate if all other renewal requirements are met. The Lead Professional certificate title will be lost.

(i)

In order to qualify for the Lead Professional certificate after it is lost, an educator must earn a minimum of five (5) years of successful educator experience, as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, while holding a Georgia professional teaching certificate issued after the Lead Professional title was lost and within five (5) years preceding the date of application to reinstate the Lead Professional title.

(c)

If an educator has received one (1) "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective" or "Needs Development" annual performance rating during the validity period of the certificate, the educator shall be entitled to the appropriate professional certificate if all other renewal requirements are met. The Lead Professional title will be lost.

1.

In order to qualify for the Lead Professional certificate after it is lost, an educator must earn a minimum of five (5) years of successful educator experience, as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, while holding a Georgia professional teaching certificate issued after the Lead Professional title was lost and within five (5) years preceding the date of application to reinstate the Lead Professional title.

(d)

If an educator fails to meet the renewal requirements outlined in (3)(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 above, he or she may apply for a one (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE). Upon completion of the requirement, the educator may apply for the appropriate professional certificate.

(4)

Validity.

(a)

The standard validity period of the Lead Professional certificate is five (5) years, with the following exceptions:

1.	A Lead Professional certificate issued to an educator holding an unexpired renewable professional certificate is only valid for the remaining validity period of the existing professional certificate; and

2.	The standard validity period may be decreased by the number of years for which the educator has held a Non-Renewable certificate, including a Waiver certificate, in the same field.

Rule 505-2-.08 Provisional Certificate

(1)	Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for issuance of a Provisional certificate, which allows individuals holding this certificate and meeting entry requirements to teach up to three years while completing requirements for professional certification.

(2)

Provisional Requirements.

(a)

Degree Requirement.

1.

Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, unless Georgia does not require a bachelor's degree for the specific field. Minimum degree requirements are defined in the applicable teaching or service rule. Applicants requesting a field requiring a bachelor's degree must meet the undergraduate GPA requirement of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale or document one of the following:

(i)	Enrollment in a GaPSC-accepted program.

(ii)	A bachelor's degree from a GaPSC-accepted institution awarded ten (10) years or more prior to the date of application for certification.

(iii)

A master's degree from a GaPSC-accepted institution.

(b)

Assessment Requirements.

1.	Attain a passing score on the GaPSC Program Admission assessment or meet exemption criteria outlined HERE.

2.

Attain a passing score on the GACE content assessment.

(i)	If no GACE or other GaPSC-approved content assessment is available for the certification field requested, the individual is exempt from this requirement.

(ii)

For Special Education certificates, the content assessment is not required up front, but must be passed before conversion. Issuance of special education academic content concentration(s) requires the appropriate GACE content assessment(s) for the concentration area(s) for the Provisional Certificate.

3.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification Application Procedures.

(c)

The Provisional certificate is issued in the following fields to individuals employed by a Georgia LUA who meet the Provisional certificate requirements outlined in the rule specific to that field:

1.	CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-. 90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS).

2.	HEALTHCARE SCIENCE (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE).

(3)

Additional Certificate Titles Issued in the Field.

(a)

The Provisional certificate is issued in the following service fields to individuals employed by a Georgia LUA who meet the Provisional service certificate requirements outlined in the rule specific to that field:

1.	Media Specialist (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.143 MEDIA SPECIALIST).

2.	School Counseling (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.144 SCHOOL COUNSELING).

3.	School Nutrition Director (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.145 SCHOOL NUTRITION DIRECTOR).

(4)

Conversion to an Induction or Professional Certificate.

(a)	Individuals holding a Provisional certificate may apply to convert their certificate to an Induction or Professional certificate upon meeting all requirements for that certificate.

(5)

Certificate Upgrade.

(a)

Individuals holding a Provisional certificate are not eligible to upgrade to a higher certificate level until conversion to an Induction or Professional certificate and meeting requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE. Initial issuance of the Provisional certificate level will be as specified in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION.

(6)

Validity.

(a)

The Provisional certificate is valid for three (3) years with the following exceptions:

1.

Provisional certificates will be issued for one (1) year pending verification of enrollment in a GaPSC-accepted educator preparation program leading to certification in the Provisional certification field held by the individual. Once enrolled in a GaPSC-accepted program, the certificate may be extended for two additional years if requested by the employing local unit of administration (LUA) and following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(i)

Individuals who are not enrolled in a GaPSC-accepted program after the initial one-year validity period may be issued a certificate for an additional year upon the request of the employing local unit of administration (LUA). In order to qualify for the remaining year of eligibility, an individual must be enrolled in an approved program. Once enrolled in a GaPSC-accepted program, the certificate may be extended for a third year if requested by the employing local unit of administration and following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES. Should an individual not be enrolled by the third year, a waiver certificate must be requested by the employing local unit of administration (LUA).

2.

Valid from one (1) to three (3) years if an individual has previously held a Non-Renewable Non-Professional, Induction Pathway 4, or GaTAPP (Clinical Practice, Core Academic, Intern and One-Year Supervised Practicum) certificate in any field. In these circumstances, the Provisional certificate will be issued for the number of full years for which the individual can document that the previous certificate was unused. Provisional certificates are not issued for partial academic years.

(7)

Restrictions.

(a)	The Provisional certificate is not issued to an individual who has completed the student teaching component of a state-approved educator preparation program leading to Induction certification but has outstanding institutional requirements for program completion.

(b)	The Provisional certificate is not issued if an individual previously held a Provisional or equivalent certificate for the full validity that was not converted.

(c)	The Provisional certificate is not issued for leadership fields (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP).

(d)	Individuals holding a Provisional certificate are not eligible to add Endorsements.

(e)	Individuals who hold a Provisional certificate or held a previous equivalent certificate will not qualify for the One (1)-Year Induction or One (1)-Year Nonrenewable to complete assessment requirements.

Rule 505-2-.09 Non-Renewable Professional Certificate

(1)	Summary: The Non-Renewable certificate allows individuals to become employed under certain conditions while completing certification requirements.

(2)

Requirements. The Non-Renewable Professional certificate may be issued at the request of an employing local unit of administration (LUA) to individuals in the following scenarios:

(a)

One (1)-Year Non-Renewable.

1.	Georgia educators who do not meet renewal requirements.

2.

Completers of a GaPSC-approved service field or leadership program who have satisfied all program requirements with the exception of the content knowledge assessment(s), and have obtained a valid recommendation from the educator preparation provider (EPP).

(i)	Georgia educators who are adding a service or leadership field to an existing certificate in any field are not eligible for a One (1)-Year Non-Renewable certificate. All program and assessment requirements must be met to receive professional certification in the service or leadership field.

3.	Out-of-state educators applying by reciprocity who hold or held a professional out-of-state teaching certificate, have at least three years of successful teaching experience, but who have not met Georgia content testing requirements.

4.	Out-of-state educators applying by reciprocity who hold or held a professional out-of-state service or leadership certificate, but who have not met Georgia content testing requirements.

5.	Out-of-state educators applying by reciprocity who have completed an approved out-of-state service field or leadership program and have obtained a valid recommendation from the educator preparation provider (EPP), but not met Georgia content testing requirements.

(b)

Three (3)-Year Non-Renewable.

1.	Georgia educators who hold a valid renewable professional certificate in any field, but are assigned to teach in a field in which they do not meet certification requirements.

2.

Individuals who have not met certain requirements for renewable professional certification in a service field, as outlined in the individual service field rules, excluding Audiology, Curriculum and Instruction, Instructional Technology, Speech and Language Pathology, and Teacher Leadership (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.140 AUDIOLOGY through 505-2-.149 TEACHER LEADERSHIP).

3.	Individuals assigned to work in a leadership position while completing a GaPSC-approved Tier I or Tier II certification program in Educational Leadership.

(3)

Fields of Issuance.

(a)	Non-Renewable Professional certificates may be issued in all teaching, service, leadership, and endorsement fields at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA).

(4)

Restrictions.

(a)	The standard validity period may be decreased by the number of years an individual has held a Three (3)-Year Induction, Supplemental Induction, or Non-Renewable certificate, including a Waiver certificate, for which requirements were not met.

(b)

Individuals assigned to work in a leadership position may be issued a three (3)-year Non-Renewable Professional Educational Leadership certificate. If an individual is required to hold both Tier I and Tier II certificates, the local unit of administration (LUA) may request a three (3)-year Non-Renewable Performance-Based Professional certificate extension after completion of requirements for a Professional Tier I certificate in leadership as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

(5)

Conversion. Specific requirements that must be completed to convert the Non-Renewable Professional certificate to renewable professional status will be printed on the certificate and outlined in correspondence accompanying the certificate. Additional information may be found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

(6)

Renewal.

(a)	Non-Renewable Professional certificates may not be renewed or extended. An individual who has previously held a Non-Renewable certificate that was not converted to a renewable professional certificate is not eligible for any further Non-Renewable certificates in any field.

(b)

Individuals who have previously held a Non-Renewable Professional certificate, but did not utilize the certificate for one (1) or more full academic years, may be eligible for an extension of the Non-Renewable Professional certificate upon the request of a Georgia employing local unit of administration (LUA). Non-Renewable Professional certificates are not issued for partial academic years, and may only be extended for the number of full years for which the educator can document that the certificate was not used.

Rule 505-2-.10 Permit

(1)

Summary: The permit is a certificate designed for individuals who qualify to teach in specific fields based on a combination of work experience, specified educational requirements and assessment(s). Permitted personnel include individuals with fluency in a language other than English; performing artists from the fields of art, dance, drama and music; Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corps (JROTC) personnel; and teachers and leaders from business, government, military, or other professions.

(2)

Fields of Issuance. The following Permit fields are offered:

(a)	Career and Technical Specializations

(b)	Engineering and Technology

(c)	Foreign Languages

(d)	Healthcare Science

(e)	Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corps (JROTC)

(f)	Performing Arts (Art, Dance, Drama and Music)

(g)	Superintendent

(3)

Career and Technical Specializations.

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

2.

Have at least two (2) years of occupational work experience in the area of specialization.

(i)	The fields of Aviation-Flight Operations, Computer Animation and Electronics Technology have options that do not require occupational work experience. Please refer to the chart of licensure options HERE.

3.

Satisfy minimum degree requirements and industry testing and/or licensure, which may be found HERE.

(i)

With the exception of the specializations in (I) below, individuals meeting all other requirements except industry testing and/or licensure may be issued a Permit certificate. For those who do not meet the licensure requirement, it must be satisfied prior to extension of the Permit.

(I)	The following fields require industry licensure for issuance of the initial Permit: Barbering, Esthetics, Cosmetology, and Nails.

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Extension.

1.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

2.	Complete industry testing and/or licensure if the field did not require it for initial issuance.

3.	Satisfy a locally-developed professional learning plan (PLP).

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(4)

Engineering and Technology.

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

2.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution in engineering or the GaPSC-determined equivalent.

3.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Extension.

1.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Pass the GACE content assessment in Engineering and Technology.

(iii)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

2.	Satisfy the locally-developed professional learning plan (PLP).

3.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(5)

Foreign Language.

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

2.	Pass the appropriate GACE content assessment or pass the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) and Writing Proficiency Test (WPT) at the levels indicated in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.26 CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE ASSESSMENTS.

3.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, or the U.S. equivalent of a bachelor's degree or higher based on a GaPSC-accepted Foreign Credential Report (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.29 EVALUATION OF CREDIT EARNED OUTSIDE OF THE U.S).

4.	Proficient in English, as determined by the LUA.

5.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Extension.

1.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

2.	Satisfy the locally-developed professional learning plan (PLP).

3.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(6)

Healthcare Science.

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

2.	Hold a valid healthcare professional license, registration, or certification that relates to the healthcare field and has been issued by an appropriate governing or regulatory body, which may be found here.

3.	Have a minimum of two (2) years of occupational work experience in the healthcare field.

4.	Hold an associate's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution in a healthcare-related field.

5.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

6.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Extension.

1.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

2.	Satisfy the locally-developed professional learning plan (PLP).

3.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(7)

Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corps (JROTC).

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

2.	Hold a minimum of a high school diploma or GED.

3.

Hold official military retirement orders, or a DD Form 214 Member Copy #4, with Block #24 reflecting honorable retirement from a branch of military service (Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, or Navy). National Guard personnel may, in lieu of the DD Form 214, use NGB Form 22, with Block #24 reflecting honorable retirement.

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Extension.

1.	Hold a letter or certificate from a branch of military service verifying successful completion of all required JROTC instructor training for full branch certification.

2.	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

3.	Satisfy the locally-developed professional learning plan (PLP).

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(c)

Salaries for JROTC instructors are not calculated in the same way as other certified personnel. Determination of JROTC instructor salary is negotiated by the LUA in accordance with United States Code, Title 10 Armed Forces, Part III, Chapter 102 Junior Reserve Officer's Training Corps and appropriate Georgia Department of Education rules regarding state salaries and supplements and experience for salary purposes. When JROTC units are established, the respective military service branch will provide instructor pay information to LUAs.

(8)

Performing Arts: Art, Dance, Drama and Music.

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

2.	Hold a minimum of a high school diploma or GED.

3.	Have at least two (2) years of occupational work experience in the area of specialization.

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Extension.

1.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Pass the GACE content exam for the fields of Art and Music.

(iii)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

2.	Satisfy the locally-developed professional learning plan (PLP).

3.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(9)

Superintendent.

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership Assessment.

2.	Hold a master's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution.

3.	Have at least two (2) years of occupational work experience of business, management, leadership and/or instructional experiences acceptable to the employing LUA as meeting qualifications for employment.

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Extension.

1.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Pass the GACE content exam in Educational Leadership.

(iii)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

2.	Satisfy the locally-developed professional learning plan (PLP).

3.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(c)	If requirements in (9)(b) (1) or (2) have not been satisfied for the extension, the chair of the Board of Education must submit a letter supporting the extension.

(10)

Conversion to Professional.

(a)

An individual holding a Permit in a teaching field and seeking renewable professional certification must meet all requirements for issuance of the 5-Year Induction, Standard Professional or Performance-Based Professional certificate as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE and GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(11)

Endorsements. Permit holders are not eligible to add endorsement fields, with the following exceptions: permit holders in foreign language fields may add the ESOL endorsement; permit holders in Drama and Audio/Video Technology & Film may add the Dramatic Writing micro-endorsement; permit holders in teaching fields, with the exception of JROTC, may add the Online Teaching endorsement. Information on the endorsement requirements may be found in the appropriate endorsement rules.

(12)

Professional Learning.

(a)	The LUA shall establish a mentor system to provide permitted personnel with orientation to the school, guidance for basic principles of classroom management, and support as they adjust to the school work place.

(b)

A Professional Learning Plan (PLP) shall be locally developed and implemented for the validity period of the permit. This plan must incorporate all Special Georgia Requirements to include course work in the identification and education of children with special education needs. The plan shall also address such areas as the development and assessment of teacher competence in the areas of learner characteristics and curriculum and methods specific to the age level and certificate field issued. It is appropriate for the plan to include prescribed course work. For example, a course in methods for teaching foreign languages in grades P-12 might be required for international speakers permitted to teach foreign languages. This plan must be developed at the beginning of the validity period and used to guide the permit holder's professional learning activities to support the school improvement plan and enhanced student achievement. The plan must be satisfied by the educator and maintained locally by the LUA.

(13)

Exceptions.

(a)	The GACE Educator Ethics Assessment is not required to convert to the five-year Permit if the initial permit was issued prior to October 15, 2017.

(b)	The GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership Assessment is not required to convert to the five-year Permit if the initial permit was issued prior to October 15, 2017.

(14)

Restrictions.

(a)

A permit cannot be issued to individuals in the following circumstances:

1.	Those who have been previously certified in Georgia but have not passed the required content assessment(s) will not be eligible for a permit in the same field.

2.	Those who have two (2) or more un-remediated "Unsatisfactory," "Needs Development" or "Ineffective" performance evaluations as defined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.43 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION.

3.

Those who hold or have held a Non-Professional type certificate but have not successfully completed requirements to convert to a renewable professional certificate, unless the employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) that requested the initial Non-Professional type certificate provides documentation that the original certificate was requested in error.

4.	The permit is not issued to an individual who has completed a state-approved educator preparation program leading to Induction or Professional certification and has not satisfied Special Georgia Requirements.

(15)

Validity. The initial permit is valid for three (3) years and may be extended for multiple five (5)-year cycles upon completion of specific requirements outlined in correspondence accompanying the Permit and "Satisfactory," "Proficient" or "Exemplary" performance evaluations on the statewide evaluation instrument.

(a)

Permits must be requested by an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA). As part of the application packet, the LUA must verify by completing the GaPSC Employer Assurance Form that the permit applicant is the best-qualified individual available for the position. Should a Permit holder change LUAs, it is not necessary to issue a new permit until the end of the validity period. However, the gaining LUA is responsible for developing a new Professional Learning Plan (PLP).

(16)

Legacy. All valid permits issued prior to the effective date of this rule shall continue in effect and be extended, as long as there is no break in the validity period, based on completion of the requirements in existence at the time the permit was issued. If the permit is allowed to expire, all requirements in effect for the new permit must be satisfied at the time of application.

Rule 505-2-.11 International Exchange Certificate

(1)

Summary: The International Exchange Certificate is a time-limited certificate designed to allow eligible educators with J-1 Exchange Visitor Visas from other countries to come to the United States to teach in Georgia schools. The certificate is non-renewable and is only issued for teaching fields. The intent of this certificate is to provide a cultural exchange (not necessarily a physical teacher exchange between two countries) for Georgia students and international teachers. Should the educator choose to continue teaching in Georgia beyond the expiration of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa, all requirements for the Induction, Professional or Non-Renewable Professional certificate must be satisfied.

(2)

Requirements.

(a)

Meet the following requirements:

1.	Hold primary citizenship outside of the United States and are actively participating in an authorized Exchange Visitor Program.

2.	Hold the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.

3.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, or equivalent of a bachelor's degree or higher as accepted through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.29 EVALUATION OF CREDIT EARNED OUTSIDE OF THE U.S.

4.	Hold an educator credential equivalent to a professional certificate from the home country in a teaching field comparable to those recognized in Georgia.

5.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

6.	Demonstrate proficiency in English as determined by the local unit of administration (LUA).

7.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(3)

Application Requirements.

(a)

The Application for Certification must be submitted with the following:

1.	International Exchange Verification form.

2.	GaPSC-accepted credential report (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.29 EVALUATION OF CREDIT EARNED OUTSIDE OF THE U.S).

3.	Photocopy of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.

4.	Verification of Lawful Presence.

5.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification Application Procedures.

(4)

Mentoring Requirements.

(a)

The LUA shall establish an Induction Plan collaboratively with the international exchange teacher in order to support professional learning. The plan will familiarize the international exchange teacher with district's and/or school's teaching and learning goals, identified developmental needs, prior preparation and experiences, and assessment results to drive professional learning.

(5)

Reissuance or Conversion.

(a)

An educator holding an International Exchange certificate who completes one exchange teacher experience with an authorized Exchange Visitor Program in Georgia and returns home for a minimum of one (1) year may qualify for one additional International Exchange certificate at the request of a Georgia LUA. To be eligible for the second exchange teacher experience, the educator must meet eligibility requirements outlined in paragraph (2) above.

(b)	An educator remaining in Georgia to continue teaching beyond the expiration of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa must meet all requirements for the Induction, Professional or Non-Renewable Professional certificate.

(c)	An International Exchange Certificate cannot be issued to an educator previously certified in Georgia with any title or type of certificate other than the International Exchange Certificate.

Rule 505-2-.12 Life Certificate

(1)

Background and Issuance. Life certificates were issued prior to July 1, 1974, to educators eligible under requirements in place at that time. Life certificates remain in effect, but any new field added after that date will hold a non-life title. However, if all certificate fields have the Life certificate title, new endorsements may continue to be added with the Life title. After the first non-Life title certificate is issued, all new endorsements will be added as a non-Life certificate.

(2)	Validity. Once issued, the life status remains in effect without any renewal requirements and will be renewed automatically by the GaPSC prior to the end validity date listed on the certificate.

(3)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE). Life certificates may be upgraded to higher certificate levels without altering the validity period of the life certificate.

(4)	Academic Content Concentrations. Holders of Life certificates in the Special Education fields, if assigned as the teacher of record in core academic content concentrations, must meet content concentration requirements as outlined in the appropriate GaPSC rule.

Rule 505-2-.13 Waiver Certificate

(1)

Purpose. A Waiver certificate may be issued at the request of a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA), and at the discretion of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC), to individuals who have not satisfied all certification requirements and/or educators with two unremediated, unsatisfactory, needs development or ineffective evaluators. The GaPSC will review the completed application and, if approved, a one (1)-year Non-Renewable Waiver certificate will be issued.

(2)

Eligibility Requirements.

(a)

To be eligible for a Waiver certificate, the individual shall:

1.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, unless Georgia does not require a bachelor's degree for the specific field or requires a higher degree. Minimum degree requirements are defined in the applicable teaching, service or leadership rule.

2.	Have adequate time to complete all remaining requirements for the type of certificate requested within one (1) year.

(3)

Application Requirements.

(a)	The application for the Waiver certificate must be submitted by the employing Georgia LUA.

(b)	The LUA must submit a written waiver request to the director of certification verifying that the individual is the most qualified candidate for employment.

(4)	Validity. The Waiver certificate is issued for a maximum validity period of one (1)- year and may not be renewed.

(5)

Highly Qualified Status. An individual holding a Waiver certificate does not satisfy Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) In-Field requirements as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015. For complete ESSA In-Field requirements, including assessment, please contact the Georgia Department of Education at www.gadoe.org.

Rule 505-2-.14 Endorsements

(1)

Purpose. In addition to full-field certificates, Georgia educators may be issued endorsements in specific areas to recognize additional expertise. In some areas, the endorsement is required in order to be considered in-field in a designated area, while in other cases the endorsement is not required but simply strengthens and enhances competency levels. At the same time, some endorsements authorize the educator to work in the designated area only at the grade level and subject matter of the base certificate while other endorsements authorize work in all subjects at specific grade levels. Specific information is found in the in-field statement in each endorsement rule.

(2)

Base Certificate Requirements. Each endorsement rule indicates which type of base certificate field (teaching, service or leadership) must be held to add the endorsement. A few endorsements may be added to more than one (1) certificate type, as specified by the appropriate endorsement rule. Endorsements added to service or leadership certificates are not considered the equivalent of a teaching certificate for purposes of adding a teaching certificate by the test-in option as described in paragraph (1)(a)2 of GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD.

(3)

Requirements. Endorsements may be initially issued as Standard Professional, Advanced Professional, Lead Professional, Non-Renewable Professional or Induction certificates depending on base certificate title, unless otherwise stated in the appropriate endorsement field rule.

(a)

To be eligible for a renewable professional endorsement, an individual must:

1.	Hold a valid certificate and meet any other requirements outlined in the appropriate endorsement field rule; and

2.

Meet one of the following requirements:

(i)	Complete a state-approved program in the endorsement field and receive verification of program completion from the approved provider; or

(ii)	Hold or have held an out-of-state certificate in an endorsement field comparable to an endorsement field offered by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).

(b)

To be eligible for a three (3)-year Non-Renewable endorsement, an individual must:

1.

Hold a valid, renewable professional or Permit certificate and meet any other requirements outlined in the appropriate endorsement field rule:

(i)	The only Non-Renewable Professional endorsement that may be added to a Permit certificate is the Non-Renewable Professional English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) endorsement, which may be added to a valid Permit certificate in any foreign language field; and

2.	Have the endorsement requested by an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA).

(c)

To be eligible for a three (3)-year Induction endorsement, an individual must:

1.	Hold a valid Induction certificate and meet any other requirements outlined in the appropriate endorsement field rule; and

2.	Have the endorsement requested by an employing Georgia LUA.

(d)	Special Georgia Requirements do not apply to endorsement fields.

(4)

Validity.

(a)	The validity period for a renewable professional endorsement is the same as for the base certificate it endorses and will be renewed when the endorsed base certificate is renewed.

(b)	The validity period for a Non-Renewable Professional endorsement is three (3) years.

(c)	The validity period for an Induction endorsement is the same as for the base certificate it endorses.

(d)	Endorsement fields require that the base certificate field be maintained.

Rule 505-2-.15 Adjunct License

(1)

Purpose. The Adjunct License is a type of certification document for the individual with:

(a)	Specific knowledge, skills, and experience in an engineering, medical, dental, pharmaceutical, veterinarian, legal, accounting, or arts profession, or any other professional position approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC); or

(b)	Instructional experience in a branch of the U.S. military or a GaPSC-accepted accredited college or university; or

(c)	Specific training or knowledge in a teaching field that is considered a low incidence field for Georgia local units of administration (LUAs);and

(d)

Who is eligible to provide instruction in one or more of the following certification fields: English, Reading, Mathematics, Science, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Earth/Space Science, History, Political Science, Geography, Economics, Art, Music, Behavioral Science, foreign language fields, the Performing Arts fields of Dance and Drama, the Special Education field of Visual Impairment or Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) fields.

(2)

Requirements. To be eligible for the Adjunct license, the applicant must be employed by a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) or contracted to serve students in low incidence fields and the request for issuance of the license must be submitted electronically to the GaPSC by the employing LUA utilizing procedures found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.org.

(a)

Option 1 - Academic Content Areas. The individual must:

1.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher with any major from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution of higher education;

2.	Verify a minimum of two (2) years of occupational experience applicable to the field of certification;

3.	Have passed the appropriate GACE content assessment at the Professional level for the field(s) being taught or hold the appropriate professional licensure for the profession or field of instructional experience (see list on GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com);

4.	Meet the GaPSC Standards of Conduct; and

5.	Be assigned a mentor/coach from the same local unit of administration (LUA)who holds renewable professional certification in the same general subject area(s) in which the licensee is teaching.

(b)

Option 2 - Performing Arts fields: Dance, Drama and CTAE fields. The individual must:

1.

Hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution of higher education, unless the GaPSC requires a minimum of an associate's degree for renewable professional certification in the field requested. Degree requirements for CTAE fields are outlined for each specialization in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.08 CAREER, TECHNICAL AND AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION.

2.	Verify a minimum of two (2) years occupational experience applicable to the field of certification;

3.	Have passed the appropriate industry test or hold professional licensure for the profession as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEATH CARE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION (HSTE) or GaPSC Rule 505-2-.90 TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL EDUCATION;

4.	Meet the GaPSC Standards of Conduct; and

5.	Be assigned a mentor/coach from the same LUA who holds renewable professional certification in the same general subject area(s) in which the licensee is teaching.

(c)

Option 3 - Visual Impairment. The individual must:

1.

Satisfy one of the following requirements:

(i)	Have completed a state-approved educator preparation program leading to certification in the field; or

(ii)	Hold a valid or expired out-of-state professional certificate in the field; and

2.	Meet the GaPSC Standards of Conduct (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS);

(d)

The request for issuance of the Adjunct License in the appropriate teaching field(s) must be submitted electronically to the GaPSC by the employing LUA utilizing procedures found on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.org.

1.	The Adjunct License issued to the licensee will show the teaching field(s) issued by the GaPSC and the LUA in which he or she is authorized to teach.

2.	It is the responsibility of the employing LUA to assure that the licensee is not teaching in one LUA for more than a total of fifty (50) percent of the school day.

(e)

Adjunct license holders are not eligible to add new fields or endorsements with the following exception: Adjunct license holders in English, Drama, and Audio/Video Technology & Film may add the Dramatic Writing Micro-Endorsement. Information on the Micro-Endorsement requirements may be found in the appropriate endorsement rule.

(3)

Validity.

(a)	The Adjunct License is valid for one (1) year and may be renewed by the employing LUA upon meeting the requirements for renewal, as specified by the system.

(b)	Salary for Adjunct License holders is determined by the LUA.

(c)	The Adjunct License is not convertible to any other type of GaPSC certificate.

(4)	In-field Statement. It is the responsibility of the LUA to assure that Adjunct License holders are assigned only within the subject field(s) associated with the license.

Rule 505-2-.16 Educational Interpreter License

(1)

Background.

(a)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA PL 108-446) is the federal law that mandates special education services for qualified individuals with disabilities. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 04, covers the educational interpreting accommodation. The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), Code 160-4-7-.14, governs the minimum state requirements for Georgia Educational Interpreters. Each local unit of administration (LUA) is responsible for ensuring that all applicable federal and state requirements are met; and

(b)	All Georgia Educational Interpreters must hold a valid state license issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).

(2)

Purpose. The requirements described herein provide the expectations for acquiring and maintaining the Georgia Educational Interpreter License. This license will aid in the identification of the most qualified Educational interpreters, while also enforcing state standards for Educational Interpreters. The Educational Interpreter License assures that individuals functioning as interpreters in schools meet the requirements outlined by the GaPSC. The interpreter participates as a team member in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process and should know and understand the IEP goals and objectives. It is the responsibility of the LUA to assure that personnel who provide educational interpreting services, regardless of job title, hold the Educational Interpreter License.

(3)

Initial Licensure Requirements:

(a)

The applicant must:

1.	Hold a valid certification through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID); or

2.

Pass the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) at level 3.5 or higher within five (5) years preceding the date of application and hold a bachelor's degree or higher in any field from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution of higher education.

(i)	If the applicant is applying for licensure with the EIPA and does not meet the degree requirement, the initial five (5)-year license will be issued and the degree requirement must be met for renewal.

(4)

Non-Renewable Licensure Requirements:

(a)	If the applicant does not meet (3)(a)1 or (3)(a)2, excluding the degree requirement, a one(1)-year Non-Renewable license in this field may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia LUA for completion of this requirement; and

(b)	If the applicant does not meet renewal requirements outlined in 8(a), a one (1)-year Non-Renewable license may be requested by the employing Georgia LUA to allow time for completion of renewal requirements.

(5)	RID and EIPA. Information on RID may be accessed at http://rid.org. Information on the EIPA may be accessed at http://www.classroominterpreting.org/home.asp.

(6)	Special Georgia Requirements. The applicant is not required to satisfy any Special Georgia Requirements other than the standards of conduct;

(7)

Validity.

(a)	The Educational Interpreter License is valid for five (5) years and determines the subsequent renewal cycle;

(b)	The validity period for the Non-Renewable license will vary depending on the outstanding conditions required to obtain the renewable license. These requirements will be outlined in correspondence from the GaPSC Certification Division at the time of issuance;

(c)	The effective date and beginning validity of the license is governed by the date the complete application package is received by the GaPSC Certification Division and requirements are met for issuance of the license; and

(d)	Should an Educational Interpreter employed by an LUA change employers, it is not necessary to issue a new license until expiration.

(8)

Renewal.

(a)

To renew the license, the interpreter must:

1.	Satisfy renewal requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS; and

2.

Hold a valid RID Certification or submit official documentation verifying the EIPA assessment has been completed during the validity period established on the license. If the initial license required completion of a bachelor-s degree, all degree requirements must be completed before the applicant may apply for renewal. Renewal requirements must be completed before the applicant may apply for renewal. Renewal requirements for expired licenses must have been completed within the five (5)-year period preceding the date of the application for renewal.

(i)	If a score of 4.0 or higher is achieved on the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA), as documented on an official score report, the interpreter will not be required to pass the assessment for license renewal purposes.

(9)

In-Field Statement.

(a)

Educational Interpreter License holders are in-field to facilitate equivalent access for deaf/hard of hearing students in the various communication exchanges that occur in all school related activities. Interpreters ascertain goals of each educational setting and communicate information clearly in the student's language. Equally important, the interpreter communicates the student's language in spoken English for staff and students. Educational interpreters promote the greatest possible level of participation and independence for students in educational settings.

Rule 505-2-.17 Non-Instructional Aide License

(1)	Purpose. A Non-Instructional Aide takes no independent actions, has no decision-making authority regarding instructional matters, and performs only routine tasks assigned by personnel with higher certification.

(2)

Requirements.

(a)

The applicant must be employed as a non-instructional aide by a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA). The request for issuance of the license must be submitted electronically to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) by the employing LUA utilizing procedures found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.org.

(b)	Non-instructional aides must hold a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

(c)	Non-instructional aides are not required to satisfy any Special Georgia Requirements other than standards of conduct.

(d)	The employing LUA shall provide a minimum of thirty (30) clock hours of job-related training within the first year of employment of a non-instructional aide. A minimum of ten (10) clock hours shall occur within the first thirty (30) days of employment.

(3)

Validity.

(a)	The Non-Instructional Aide license is valid for five (5) years, with the beginning date of the first five (5)-year certificate to be the date of employment and the ending date to be June 30 of the fifth certificate year.

(b)	Should a non-instructional aide change employment, it is not necessary to issue a new license until the expiration of the validity period. Course work taken for renewal credit at the previous employing LUA may be transferred for renewal at the discretion of the LUA.

(4)

Renewal.

(a)

To renew the license the non-instructional aide must:

1.	Be employed as a non-instructional aide in a Georgia LUA; and

2.	Complete a minimum of twenty (20) clock hours of job-related training provided by the employing LUA for license renewal prior to expiration of the license.

(b)	The request for renewal must be submitted electronically by the employing LUA to the GaPSC utilizing procedures found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.org.

(5)	In-Field Statement. Non-instructional aides are in-field to perform duties as defined in paragraph (1) above.

Rule 505-2-.18 Paraprofessional License

(1)

Summary: On January 8, 2002, federal legislation known as the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) established mandatory federal guidelines for the hiring of paraprofessionals in specified school settings. These guidelines are found in Section 1119 of the federal legislation, with each local unit of administration (LUA) is responsible for ensuring that all applicable federal requirements are met. While the federal hiring requirements apply only to designated paraprofessional positions, all Georgia Paraprofessionals must hold a valid state license issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).

(2)

Requirements.

(a)

Meet one of the following requirements:

1.	Hold an associate's degree or higher in any subject from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution.

2.	Have completed two (2) years of college coursework (sixty [60] semester hours) above the remedial level with a grade of "C" or better at a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution.

3.	Have passed the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment and hold a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

(b)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(c)	The issuance of the license must be requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(d)	Employing LUAs are responsible for ensuring that all applicable federal ESEA hiring requirements are met.

(3)

Non-Renewable License Requirements.

(a)

One-year Non-Renewable License (Issued to individuals who have not completed renewal requirements).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold an expired Paraprofessional license.

(ii)	Have the license requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Verify completion of requirements outlined in the renewal rule. (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

(ii)	Have the license conversion requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(4)

Renewal.

(a)

To renew the license the individual must:

1.	Be employed as a paraprofessional in a Georgia LUA.

2.

Satisfy renewal requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS.

(i)	Individuals holding expired paraprofessional licenses issued prior to the implementation of the requirements outlined in section (2), above, must meet those requirements in addition to renewal requirements.

(5)

Validity.

(a)	The Paraprofessional license is valid for five (5) years.

(b)	Should a paraprofessional change employing LUA, it is not necessary to request a new license until the expiration of the validity period.

(6)

In-Field Statement. Paraprofessional licenses are not issued with specific field designations. Individuals with a Paraprofessional license, as well as individuals who hold a valid renewable professional certificate in any teaching, service, or leadership field, are in-field to perform assigned paraprofessional responsibilities in grades P-12. Individuals holding professional certification will not be issued Paraprofessional licensure.

Rule 505-2-.19 Support Personnel License

(1)

Purpose. The Support Personnel license is a type of license for individuals who serve in positions of leadership over support functions in the local unit of administration (LUA). Such positions include but are not limited to: finance, transportation, public relations, personnel, staff development, facilities, planning, evaluation, research, assessment and technology coordination.

(a)

It is the responsibility of the LUA to assure that personnel assigned to support personnel positions of leadership hold the Support Personnel license. The LUA may elect to require the Educational Leadership Certificate for these assignments at their discretion. In such cases, they can be listed on the Georgia Department of Education Certified Personnel Information (CPI) report.

(2)

Requirements.

(a)	Support Personnel license holders must meet all job requirements as determined by the LUA.

(b)	Support Personnel license holders are not required to satisfy any Special Georgia Requirements other than standards of conduct.

(c)	Support Personnel licenses must be requested by the employing LUA.

(3)

Validity.

(a)	The Support Personnel license is valid for five (5) years.

(b)	Should a Support Personnel license holder change employing LUAs, it is not necessary to issue a new license until the expiration of the validity period. However, the gaining LUA is responsible for developing a new Professional Development Plan (PLP).

(4)	Renewal. The Support Personnel license may be renewed upon meeting the PLP requirements for renewal, as specified by the LUA.

(5)	Salary. Salaries for Support Personnel license holders are determined by the LUA.

(6)	In-Field Statement. Support Personnel license holders are in-field to perform duties as specified for the position by the LUA.

Rule 505-2-.20 Substitute Teaching

(1)

Definitions.

(a)	Substitute teacher - an individual employed to serve in the absence of the regularly employed teacher. The term substitute teacher also applies to a person temporarily employed to teach a class that does not have a regular teacher.

(b)	Substitute teacher list - a list of individuals approved by the local unit of administration (LUA) or its designee to serve as substitute teachers.

(2)

Requirements.

(a)	Each LUA shall maintain and employ from a substitute teacher list.

(b)

Priority shall be given to individuals with the highest qualifications. The qualifications are ranked as follows:

1.

Possession of one of the following:

(i)	A valid or expired Induction teaching certificate;

(ii)	A valid or expired renewable professional teaching certificate; or

(iii)

A valid Georgia Retired Educator certificate.

2.	Completion of a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution;

3.	Completion of at least one (1) or more years of postsecondary training beyond a high school diploma ranked in order of number of years completed;

4.	Possession of a high school diploma; or

5.	Possession of a GED certificate.

(c)	A substitute teacher having qualifications lower on the priority list may be employed if that person has performed effectively on previous occasions and/or has the appropriate in-field experience.

(d)

As a minimum, each substitute teacher shall hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent and have participated in at least four (4) hours of initial substitute teacher training provided by the employing Georgia LUA. Those individuals who possess a valid or expired Georgia professional teaching certificate or Paraprofessional certificate are exempt from the training requirement.

(e)	Any classroom teacher absence or vacancy that lasts forty-six (46) or more consecutive days in a school year shall be filled with a certified in-field teacher, except in situations where longer periods of time are required by state or federal law.

(f)	Substitute teachers who hold only a high school diploma or GED certificate shall not work in any one classroom more than ten (10) consecutive days.

(g)	School leadership personnel shall ensure that instructional leadership and classroom management are maintained by the substitute teacher to assure minimal interruption of student progress.

Rule 505-2-.21 Certification by Interstate Reciprocity

(1)

Summary: Reciprocity is a term commonly used when individuals certified in one state or jurisdiction seek certification in another. Unfortunately, many individuals assume the term guarantees that they will automatically receive a professional certificate in the new state without having to satisfy any additional requirements. This is not always the case, since each receiving state may impose special state requirements, which must be met within a specified period of time.

(2)

NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) offers member states the opportunity to participate in the Interstate Agreement, which governs the details of interstate reciprocity. This agreement enables a state to review the preparation and certification standards of all other states and jurisdictions for specific certificate types (teacher, administrator, support and CTAE). Each state may then sign the agreement with other state certificate types that meet its own minimum standards for preparation and certification. Some states may choose not to sign with another state because of significant differences in standards. Others may sign with another state to accept their teaching certificates, but to not accept their leadership or support certificates. Specific information on the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, including which states have signed with other states and in what certificate areas, may be found on the NASDTEC website at www.nasdtec.org.

(3)

Requirements. An out-of-state educator meeting the requirements outlined below may qualify for a Georgia educator certificate. An out-of-state educator is defined as an individual who holds or has held a professional certificate issued by another state, country or jurisdiction that has signed the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. An out-of-state educator is not an individual who has completed clinical practice in a Georgia school as part of a state-approved educator preparation program or used experience on a Georgia non-professional certificate to obtain professional certification in another state. An out-of-state professional certificate is defined as an educator certificate for which the individual has met all requirements in the state or jurisdiction of issuance. If employment or experience is required for issuance of an out-of-state professional certificate, a letter of eligibility for a professional certificate will be accepted as long as the only outstanding requirements are employment and/or experience.

(a)

An out-of-state educator who meets the following conditions will be eligible for a Georgia professional certificate:

1.	Hold a valid or expired professional certificate issued based on completion of a state-approved educator preparation program to include pedagogy and clinical practice in the base field of certification.

2.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, unless Georgia requires a differed degree level for the comparable certificate type.

3.	Have a minimum of three (3) years of successful full-time out-of-state experience (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS).

4.

Meet or exempt all applicable Special Georgia Requirements, as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS:

(i)	An out-of-state educator who does not meet the Special Education requirement may still qualify for an initial Georgia Professional certificate. This requirement must be completed as part of professional learning requirements before the educator may renew the initial Georgia certificate.

(ii)

An out-of-state educator who does not meet the content assessment may still qualify for an initial Georgia one (1)-year Non-Renewable certificate. This requirement must be completed during the validity of the certificate before the educator may extend the Non-Renewable certificate for an additional four (4) years.

5.	Apply for the certificate following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

An out-of-state educator who meets the following conditions will be eligible for a Georgia Induction certificate:

1.	Hold a valid or expired professional certificate issued based on completion of a state-approved educator preparation program to include pedagogy and clinical practice in the base field of certification.

2.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, unless Georgia requires a different degree level for the comparable certificate type.

3.

Meet or exempt all applicable Special Georgia Requirements, as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS.

(i)	An out-of-state educator who does not meet the Special Education requirement may still qualify for an initial Georgia five (5)-year Induction certificate. This requirement must be completed as part of professional learning requirements before the educator may convert the certificate.

(ii)

An out-of-state educator who does not meet the content assessment may still qualify for an initial Georgia one (1)-year Induction certificate. This requirement must be completed during the validity of the certificate before the educator may extend the Induction certificate for an additional four (4) years.

4.	Apply for the certificate following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(4)

Comparability. The Georgia certificate to be issued must be comparable to the certificate held in the other state or jurisdiction.

(a)

Individuals holding certification in fields not recognized as comparable for certification in Georgia must meet minimum standards for a recognized Georgia field. For example, while some states certify individuals in "Journalism", Georgia has no comparable educator certificate. Out-of-state journalism teachers may apply for a Georgia Non-Renewable Professional certificate in English and must satisfy all requirements for that field. During that time period, they are in-field to teach Journalism as well as English.

(b)	Individuals holding out-of-state certification in areas recognized as endorsements in Georgia will be issued an endorsement if all requirements are met.

(5)

Certification Level. The level assigned to a certificate indicates the highest degree level recognized by the GaPSC that has been awarded to the certificate holder. Georgia does not issue a certificate level based on college hours beyond a degree. Example: A Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study or Masters + does not lead to a higher certificate level. Certificate levels seldom mean the same among different states; therefore, the level is not considered part of the Interstate Agreement. Information on initial Georgia certificate levels is found in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION.

(6)

Educational Leadership. Georgia has modified portions of the Interstate Agreement (Reciprocity) procedures for the field of Educational Leadership. Please see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP. Educators working in Georgia schools who choose to attend non-GaPSC-approved leadership programs will not be processed under full reciprocity procedures. Georgia educators who attend non-GaPSC-approved leadership programs will not be eligible for Professional Educational Leadership certificates.

(7)

Restrictions.

(a)	Educators applying by reciprocity do not qualify for Provisional certification in their field of certification or in a new field of certification.

(b)

Educators who complete clinical practice in a Georgia school as part of a state-approved educator preparation program without satisfying all special Georgia requirements may not apply for Georgia certification based on reciprocity unless three or more years of successful experience is earned out of state while holding a Professional certificate in the state.

Rule 505-2-.22 Certification by State-Approved Program

(1)

Summary: State-approved programs are professional education programs based on established state standards and delivered as traditional or non-traditional routes to certification. Such programs, usually provided by colleges/universities, school systems, Regional Educational Services Agencies (RESAs), or collaborative arrangements between any of these agencies, must be approved by the appropriate state agency in order to verify completion of certification programs. Program standards and requirements are based on preparation necessary to obtain a certificate, and state-approved programs may or may not require a specific degree. Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC)-approved programs include those that result in certificates as well as endorsements. A listing of GaPSC-approved programs may be found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com. Information concerning program approval standards and procedures may be found HERE.

(2)

Out-of-State Programs. The GaPSC may certify individuals who have completed state-approved educator preparation programs in any state under the following conditions:

(a)

The educator preparation program was approved by the state approval authority in a state that approves teacher preparation programs, the program was approved for the field in which the educator completed the program and the program held approval status during the year in which the individual completed the program.

1.	In the specific field of Speech and Language Pathology, the GaPSC shall accept ASHA-approved programs that are not state-approved but are completed at GaPSC-accepted accredited institutions.

(b)	The individual has completed all state-approved program requirements and the authorized official at the program provider has verified program completion on the appropriate GaPSC form.

(c)	The program was completed in a field recognized by the GaPSC. If the program was completed in an area recognized in Georgia as an endorsement only, the individual will be eligible for the appropriate endorsement certificate in that field.

(d)

The individual has completed field experiences or clinical practice including student teaching. If field experiences, clinical practice or student teaching was completed in a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) requiring GaPSC certification, the individual must have held a Pre-Service certificate and have worked with a cooperating teacher holding renewable professional certification in the field in which the individual completed a state-approved certification program, or in a closely related field as outlined below. If clinical practice was completed in a Georgia LUA that has the legal authority to waive certification, the cooperating teacher must, at a minimum meet federal requirements under Title IIA regulations or Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015 In-field requirements. If the cooperating teacher does not meet these requirements, the clinical practice or field experience does not meet Georgia certification requirements and will not be accepted.

1.

The following fields are considered closely related for the purposes of cooperating teachers for field experiences, clinical practice, or student teaching:

(i)	An individual earning certification in Birth through Kindergarten may work with a cooperating teacher certified in Early Childhood Education.

(ii)	An individual earning certification in Middle Grades may work with a cooperating teacher certified in the corresponding secondary (6-12) field.

(iii)

An individual earning certification in a foreign language field may work with a cooperating teacher certified in any other foreign language field.

(iv)

An individual earning certification in Science (6-12) may work with a cooperating teacher certified in any other secondary science field (Biology, Chemistry, Earth/Space Science, or Physics), and a candidate earning certification in any of the secondary science fields may work with a cooperating teacher certified in Science (6-12).

(v)	An individual earning certification in a Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) field may work with a cooperating teacher certified in any other CTAE field.

2.	Effective July 1, 2020, individuals completing culminating residency (formerly referred to as student teaching) in a Georgia LUA must be placed in classrooms for a minimum of one full semester or the equivalent.

(3)

In-State Programs. GaPSC-approved programs shall include all course work specified in Special Georgia Requirements, outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS. However, the GACE content assessment is not considered part of the approved program, but is a separate state requirement for certification. GaPSC-approved program providers may verify approved program completion for an individual who has completed all program requirements, to include the Special Georgia Requirements, and the GACE content assessment as long as the assessment was attempted. If a GaPSC-approved provider verifies program completion with attempting but not passing the assessment, the individual will not be eligible for any certificate unless requested by an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA). Upon such a request, a One (1)-year Induction certificate may be issued.

(4)

Out-of-Country Programs. The GaPSC may certify individual who have completed the equivalent of a state-approved educator preparation program outside the United States. The program must be in a field recognized by the GaPSC, and include clinical practice / student teaching. Individuals for certification who have attended colleges or universities outside the United States must provide the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) with a detailed course-by-course credential report of college-level credit completed as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.29 EVALUATION OF CREDIT EARNED OUTSIDE OF THE U.S.

(5)

Advanced Degrees. In order to qualify for a certificate level upgrade, an individual must complete an advanced degree program that meets specific quality standards outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE. These standards apply to all advanced degree programs, even those that are state-approved.

(6)

Educational Leadership.

(a)	Georgia Educational Leadership programs that lead to certification must be GaPSC-approved programs, as described in GaPSC Rules 505-3-.58 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM and 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

(b)

Georgia applies reciprocity to initial out-of-state Educational Leadership certificate holders based on completion of a state-approved program at level six (6) or seven (7), and also at level five (5) when the educator has at least three (3) years of successful experience in a leadership position as outlined in Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP.

(7)	Resources. GaPSC-approved programs for all fields are listed on the GaPSC web site HERE.

Rule 505-2-.23 Requirements Letter

(1)

Summary.

(a)	The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) Certification Division may issue a Requirements Letter to an individual who has not met all requirements for Georgia certification and is not employed in a Georgia Local Unit of Administration (LUA).

(2)

Validity.

(a)

The Requirements Letter is valid for five (5) years from the date of issuance.

1.

If requirements outlined in a Requirements Letter are not completed prior to the expiration date, a new Requirements Letter may be issued based on current requirements. If the individual applied for certification based on completion of a GaPSC-approved educator preparation program, an updated Approved Program Completion form verifying compliance with current program requirements must be submitted. To request an updated Requirements Letter, an individual must apply following application procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)	If the individual completes all outstanding certification requirements outlined in the Requirements Letter prior to its expiration date, the individual must apply for certification following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

Rule 505-2-.24 Special Georgia Requirements

(1)

Summary: All individuals applying for certification in Georgia shall satisfy certain Special Georgia Requirements. These requirements are in the areas of: content knowledge; standards of conduct; special education; ethics assessments; and content pedagogy assessments. Special Georgia Requirements, with the exception of the standards of conduct, do not apply to individuals holding Georgia Life certificates.

(2)

Content Knowledge Assessment(s). An individual applying for certification in Georgia must pass or meet exemption criteria for content knowledge assessment(s) appropriate to the field of certification and/or any other assessment(s) as required by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.26 CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE ASSESSMENTS). GACE content assessments have two passing levels: Induction and Professional. All passing scores earned on GACE assessments will be treated as Professional level scores even if the official score report reflects an Induction level score. As of October 15, 2011, Georgia educators who complete out-of-state programs and/or pass out-of-state assessments leading to certification in a new field in another state must pass the appropriate GACE content assessment for Georgia certification in the new field.

(a)

An individual may be exempt from passing the GACE content knowledge assessment(s) in the following scenarios:

1.	Out-of-state certificate holders applying for initial Georgia certification who satisfy the out-of-state certificate and experience criteria outlined in paragraph (6) below.

2.	Out-of-state professional certificate holders applying for initial Georgia certification who have passed the out-of-state content assessment required for issuance of the out-of-state certificate field.

3.	Individuals holding valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification in the specific field, with the exception of the Middle Grades Generalist Field. The NBPTS Middle Grades Generalist field does not exempt the GACE Middle Grades content assessments.

4.	Individuals seeking certification in a field for which the GaPSC has not adopted a content assessment.

(b)

Completers of GaPSC-approved programs who have satisfied all program requirements with the exception of the content knowledge assessment(s), and have obtained a valid recommendation from the educator preparation provider (EPP) may be issued a one (1)-year Induction or Non-Renewable Professional certificate, as appropriate, at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA).

(c)	Additional information on the required content assessment(s) is available on the GaPSC web site at https://www.gapsc.com/EducatorPreparation/Assessment/Testing.aspx.

(3)

Standards of Conduct. An individual applying for certification in Georgia must comply with the ethical standards of the profession. An FBI background check (fingerprint) is required for employment in Georgia public schools and a Georgia criminal history check is required every five (5) years for certificate renewal. In addition, individuals applying for certification must respond to background check questions on the application form. Individuals applying for or already holding certification who violate standards of conduct may be subject to a GaPSC investigation, which could involve certificate denial, suspension or revocation (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.30 REFERRAL TO EDUCATOR ETHICS DIVISION).

(4)

Special Education.

(a)

A GaPSC-accepted course in the identification and education of children who have special educational needs is required for issuance of a certificate in any of the following:

1.	Teaching fields.

2.	Leadership fields.

3.	Service fields of Media Specialist and School Counseling.

(b)

The following certificates may be issued prior to completion of the special education requirement (course must be satisfied to renew or convert the certificate):

1.	Initial Professional or Induction certificate issued based on interstate reciprocity.

2.	Initial Induction certificate issued based on completion of an out-of-state approved educator preparation program with student teaching outside of Georgia.

3.	Initial Professional certificate in School Counseling based on holding an acceptable valid state license issued by the Georgia Secretary of State Office.

(c)

The course may be satisfied by the following:

1.

Earning three (3) semester hours of college credit with a grade of "B" or better

(i)	The grade requirement of "B" or better is effective July 1, 2019, for courses completed on or after this date.

2.	Earning five (5) Georgia professional learning units satisfied through a Georgia public school system or RESA.

3.	Holding valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification.

4.	Meeting out-of-state experience exemption outlined in section (6) below.

(5)

Ethics Assessment.

(a)

A passing score on the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment is required for the following:

1.	Issuance of a Pre-Service certificate.

2.	Issuance of an initial Clearance certificate to individuals who are not required to hold an in-field certificate as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE.

3.	Issuance of a Provisional teaching certificate.

4.	Issuance of an Induction certificate in a teaching field.

5.	Issuance of the International Exchange certificate.

6.	Conversion of a Provisional or Induction Pathway 4 teaching certificate to a Professional certificate.

7.	Issuance of an initial three-year Permit.

8.	Conversion to the five-year Permit if initial Permit was issued on or after October 15, 2017.

(b)

A passing score on the GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership is required for the following:

1.	Issuance of a Non-Renewable certificate in educational leadership for completion of an approved program.

2.	Issuance of an initial professional certificate in educational leadership.

3.	Issuance of an initial Superintendent Permit

4.	Conversion to the five-year Permit if initial Permit was issued on or after October 15, 2017.

(6)

Out-of-State Experience Exemption. Veteran out-of-state educators moving into Georgia may be eligible to exempt all Special Georgia Requirements except the Standards of Conduct. To be eligible, the applicant must hold a valid out-of-state certificate and have a minimum of five (5) full years of successful education experience as defined in section (5) of GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS.

Rule 505-2-.25 Experience Requirements

(1)

Summary: Work experience as an educator or in another occupation may be required as a qualification for certification in the following situations:

(a)	To meet eligibility requirements for specified fields in Career, Technical and Agricultural Education as outlined in GaPSC Rules 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE, and 505-2-.90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS;

(b)	To meet eligibility requirements for selected permit fields, and the certificate field of Educational Leadership, as outlined in the appropriate field rule;

(c)	To exempt selected Special Georgia Requirements with successful out-of-state educator experience; and

(d)	To meet eligibility or renewal requirements for the Standard Professional, Performance-Based Professional, Lead Professional and Advanced Professional certificates.

(2)	Verification of Experience. The GaPSC shall verify satisfactory experience for certification purposes. Employing local units of administration (LUAs) are responsible for verifying and evaluating satisfactory experience for salary purposes in accordance with State Board of Education rules.

(3)

Successful Educator Experience.

(a)	Experience must be accompanied by satisfactory ratings on annual performance evaluations.

(b)

Only full-time experience will be accepted.

1.	One (1)-year of full-time experience in a Birth through grade 12 (B-12) setting is defined as a minimum of one hundred twenty (120) days working full time in a GaPSC-accepted educational setting. No computations for partial-year experience will apply.

2.

One (1)-year of full-time experience in a government agency is defined as twelve (12) full months of employment, working forty (40) hours per week with the exception of standard leave or holidays. Non-consecutive full months of employment may be combined to constitute a full year of experience in a government agency, but no partial years of this type of experience may be combined with experience in a B-12 setting.

(c)

Experience must have been earned while holding a government-issued educator certificate/license in the field in which the experience was earned, and the experience and certificate must be from the same state/country. Experience earned while holding a non-professional educator certificate/license is acceptable as long as a professional educator certificate/license was subsequently earned in the same state/country and field.

(d)

Unless otherwise specified, full years of educator experience in different settings may be combined. The following are GaPSC-accepted educational settings:

1.	A U.S. P-12 public school;

2.	A U.S. P-12 private school accredited by a GaPSC-accepted P-12 accrediting organization when the experience was earned (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION);

3.	A government agency or educator preparation provider (EPP) while working in an education position that required maintenance of a valid professional educator certificate;

4.	A school administered by a jurisdiction that has signed the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, such as the District of Columbia, Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), etc., as identified on the NASDTEC web site at www.nasdtec.org;

5.

A kindergarten, pre-kindergarten, Head Start Program or early care center that met one of the following qualifications at the time the experience was earned:

(i)	Under the legal authority of a U.S. public school board of education or a jurisdiction that has signed the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement as outlined in Section 4 above;

(ii)	Licensed by the state or country in which it was located;

(iii)

Certified by the U.S. Department of Defense;

(iv)	Accredited by a GaPSC-accepted P-12 accrediting organization (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION); or

(v)	Accredited by a GaPSC-accepted early care accrediting organization (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION).

6.

A P-12 school setting in a foreign country, as long as:

(i)	The individual held the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree prior to the time the experience was earned;

(ii)	The individual held a valid professional certificate issued by the appropriate governing body in the field and subject taught at the time the experience was earned; and

(iii)

The school was organized and conducted with educational curriculum similar to that found in U.S. public schools. This determination will be made by GaPSC Certification Division staff.

(e)	Experience as a supply/substitute, a paraprofessional or as a member of a board of education does not apply toward educator experience for certification purposes.

(f)

Acceptable educator experience must be evaluated by a school, district or agency approved performance evaluation system.

1.

Each successful year of out-of-state educator experience must have been rated "Satisfactory" or equivalent on an annual evaluation. This may be documented in one of the following ways:

(i)	On the Experience Verification Form, as outlined in section (h) below;

(ii)	On official performance evaluations; or

(iii)

In a letter from an administrator who supervised the educator during the years reported.

(g)

If an individual is a member of the military Reserve or National Guard and is called to active duty, one (1) full year of active duty status will be accepted as a satisfactory year of educator experience. No more than two (2) full years of experience within the last five (5) years may result from military active duty. Military experience as described above must be documented on a DD214 form, Member Copy #4.

(h)

Unless otherwise noted, successful experience must be documented on the GaPSC Experience Verification Form, found on the GaPSC web site, www.gapsc.com. It must be completed by the Superintendent, Headmaster, Agency Director or designated personnel officer of the current or previous employing LUA. Principals are not authorized to complete the Experience Verification Form unless they are the designated personnel officer. The form should be completed in its entirety; if a current or former employer is unable or unwilling to complete all parts of the Experience Verification Form, supplemental documentation provided by the applicant may be accepted at the discretion of the GaPSC.

(4)

Occupational Experience.

(a)

Individuals applying for certification in Healthcare Science or certain Career and Technical Specialization fields, or applicants for Permits may be required to submit occupational experience in order to qualify. (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE, 505-2-.90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS, and 505-2-.10 PERMIT CERTIFICATE.) This experience may be documented in one of the following ways:

1.	Correspondence on official organization letterhead, signed by the individual's supervisor at the time the experience was earned, outlining dates of employment, job title and job duties.

2.	If self-employed, copies of business or personal tax records that reflect self-employment work experience in the field being requested.

(5)

Out-of-State Experience Exemption.

(a)

Veteran out-of-state educators moving into Georgia may be eligible to exempt all Special Georgia Requirements except the standards of conduct. To be eligible, the individual must have a minimum of five (5) full years of successful educator experience earned outside of Georgia, as defined in section (3) above, which also meets the following requirement:

1.

Earned in a single field (subject area) that is comparable to the Georgia certificate field being sought. For example, to exempt the mathematics assessment, the experience must be in teaching mathematics; to exempt the school counseling assessment the experience must be in school guidance counseling, etc. Out-of-state educators certified in multiple fields will be eligible to exempt the content knowledge assessment only for the field in which the acceptable experience was earned. Other fields will be subject to the assessment requirement, but will be exempt from all other applicable Special Georgia Requirements with the exception of the standards of conduct.

Rule 505-2-.26 Certification and Licensure Assessments

(1)

Summary: This rule outlines specific assessment requirements for obtaining certification. The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) administers through a testing supplier educator assessments required for certification. As of September 1, 2006, the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of EducatorsT (GACE) is the state-approved educator certification assessment program in Georgia. GACE assessments include Program Admission, Content, Standards-based assessment of knowledge of the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators and Paraprofessional assessments. All GACE assessments are aligned with state-approved educator preparation program standards, national standards, and the state standards for the P-12 curriculum. Information about the GACE program is available at www.gapsc.com. In addition to the GACE, there are other state-accepted content assessments for certain foreign language and career and technical specializations.

(2)

Program Admission Assessment.

(a)	The GACE Program Admission assessment measures an individual's general knowledge in the areas of reading, mathematics, and writing at a competency level to be successful in an educator preparation program.

(b)

The following individuals are required to either pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission assessment:

1.

Candidates seeking admission to a GaPSC-approved educator preparation program in a teaching or service field. Verification of this requirement is the responsibility of the Educator Preparation Provider (EPP) and is documented electronically by the provider in the Traditional Program Management System (TPMS) or on the Georgia Approved Program Completion form used to verify program completion. Documentation of any exemption must also be provided to the GaPSC upon application for Pre-Service certification.

2.	Individuals seeking Provisional certification.

3.	Individuals seeking the service field of School Social Work (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.147 SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK).

4.	Initial permit holders applying for an extension, with the exception of JROTC Permit holders.

5.	Individuals seeking an Induction Teaching or Service field through completion of a GaPSC-accepted program.

(c)	Individuals holding a Military Support Provisional certificate must attempt the assessment during the first semester of enrollment in a GaPSC-accepted certification program and pass the assessment prior to issuance of the Year Three (3) Provisional certificate.

(d)	Information regarding the Program Admission Requirement and exemption criteria can be accessed at http://www.gapsc.com/EducatorPreparation/Assessment/BasicSkillsInfo.aspx.

(3)

Content Assessment.

(a)

GACE content assessments test knowledge in a variety of content areas as required for certification. GACE content assessments have two passing levels: Induction and Professional. All passing scores earned on GACE assessments will be treated as Professional level scores for certification purposes even if the official score report reflects an Induction level score. Information on the content assessments required for Georgia certification may be accessed at www.gapsc.com.

(b)

The following individuals are required to pass the GACE content assessment for the desired certification field:

1.

Individuals seeking a Provisional certificate.

(i)

For Special Education fields, the pre-requisite is the special education academic content concentration(s), which must be met by passing the appropriate academic content assessment(s). Individuals enrolled in GaTAPP have the option of verifying an academic content concentration if approved by the GaTAPP provider. The appropriate Special Education field assessment must then be completed before conversion to a Professional.

(ii)	Individuals holding the Military Support Provisional certificate must pass the GACE content assessment(s) prior to issuance of the Year Two (2) Provisional certificate.

2.	Individuals seeking an initial permit in a foreign language field.

3.

Georgia Pre-Service certificate holders applying for an Induction certificate.

(i)	A One (1)-Year Induction certificate may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) to individuals applying for initial certification based on completion of a GaPSC-accepted program who must satisfy the content assessment.

4.	Georgia Professional or Induction certificate holders applying to add a certification field.

5.

Individuals applying for initial Professional or Induction certification in Georgia based on reciprocity.

(i)	These individuals may exempt the content assessment requirement by meeting the exemption criteria outlined in section (10)(a) below.

(ii)	A One (1)-Year Non-Renewable Professional or One (1)-Year Induction certificate may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) to individuals applying for initial certification based on reciprocity who must satisfy the content assessment.

6.	Georgia educators who complete out-of-state programs leading to certification must pass the GACE content assessment; these educators will not be eligible for the exemption outlined in section (11)(a) below, even upon submission of an out-of-state professional certificate.

7.	Individuals seeking to extend an initial permit in the fields of Art, Music, Engineering & Technology and Superintendent.

8.	Individuals seeking an Adjunct license must pass the appropriate GACE content assessment(s) for the field(s) being taught or hold the appropriate professional licensure for the profession or field of instructional experience.

9.	Individuals seeking an initial professional Service field.

(c)

For fields in which there is no GACE assessment available, the GaPSC may designate other state-approved certification exams. The Praxis exam is the Georgia state-approved content assessment for the field of Speech and Language Pathology, and the proficiency exams offered by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL), detailed in section (9) below, are one of the Georgia state-approved content assessments for foreign language fields.

(d)

Georgia does not have a content assessment for the fields of Audiology, Dance, Drama, School Nutrition Director, School Social Work, Speech, Physical and Health Disabilities, Special Education Preschool, Visual Impairment, and some foreign language fields. In fields for which there is no Georgia state-approved or state-accepted content assessment, passing a content assessment for certification is not required. (See GaPSC Rule 505-3-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS).

(e)

The following outlines the GACE content assessments alignment for Montessori fields:

1.	Birth Through Kindergarten must be passed for Infant Toddler (birth - 3) and PK2- K (ages 2 1/2 - 6).

2.	Elementary Education must be passed for Elementary I Grades 1^st- 3^rd (ages 6 - 9) and Elementary I- II Grades 1^st - 6^th (ages 6 - 12).

3.	Middle Grades Language Arts and Social Science must be passed for Secondary I Language Arts & Social Studies.

4.	Middle Grades Science and Middle Grades Mathematics must be passed for Secondary I Science & Mathematics.

5.	English must be passed for Secondary II English.

6.	Mathematics must be passed for Secondary II Mathematics.

7.	Science must be passed for Secondary II Science.

8.	Behavioral Science, Economics, Geography, History, and Political Science must be passed for Secondary II Social Studies, as determined by the field(s) of instruction.

(4)

Educator Ethics Assessments.

(a)	The GACE Educator Ethics Assessment is designed to both teach and assess knowledge and skills in the areas of the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators and of ethical understanding to guide behaviors and decision-making.

(b)

A passing score on GACE Educator Ethics Assessment is required for the following:

1.

Issuance of a Pre-Service certificate, with the following exception:

(i)	Pre-Service certificate applicants who have been continuously enrolled in the same educator preparation program since July 1, 2014, or earlier are exempt from this requirement. Note: the term "enrolled" is defined as admitted to a program and actively taking coursework.

(ii)	The GACE Educator Ethics - Program Entry will continue to be accepted for individuals who previously completed the assessment for program admission. For those individuals, the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment must be passed for conversion of the Pre-Service certificate.

2.	Issuance of an initial Clearance certificate to individuals who are not required to hold an in-field certificate as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE.

3.	Issuance of a Provisional teaching certificate, including the Military Support Provisional teaching certificate.

4.	Issuance of a Five (5)-Year Induction certificate in a teaching field.

5.	Issuance of an International Exchange certificate.

6.	Issuance of an initial three-year Permit.

7.	Conversion to the five-year Permit if the initial Permit was issued on or after October 15, 2017.

8.	Conversion of a Provisional or Induction Pathway 4 teaching certificate to a Professional certificate.

(c)

A passing score on GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership is required for the following:

1.

Issuance of a Non-Renewable certificate in educational leadership for completion of an approved program.

(i)

The GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership - Program Entry will continue to be accepted for individuals who previously completed the assessment for issuance of the Non-Renewable certificate. For those individuals, the GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership must be passed for conversion to the Professional certificate.

2.	Issuance of an initial professional certificate in educational leadership.

3.	Issuance of an initial Superintendent Permit.

4.	Conversion to the five-year Superintendent if the initial Permit was issued on or after October 15, 2017.

(5)

Paraprofessional Assessment.

(a)

The GACE assessment for paraprofessionals in Georgia covers four (4) areas: reading, writing, mathematics and classroom skills. The Paraprofessional assessment is designed to enable individuals and school districts to satisfy state and federal No Child Left Behind requirements that call for "highly qualified paraprofessionals" in a P-12 setting. These requirements indicate that paraprofessionals working in Title I schools or paid with Title I funds must meet a rigorous standard of quality and demonstrate, through formal state or local assessment, knowledge of and ability to assist in instructing, reading, writing, and mathematics; or knowledge of and ability to assist in instructing, reading readiness, writing readiness, and mathematics readiness, as appropriate.

(b)	Passing the GACE Paraprofessional assessment, in combination with a high school diploma or GED equivalent, is one of the options available to qualify for a Paraprofessional Certificate. (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.18 PARAPROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(6)

Educational Leadership Assessment.

(a)

The GACE Educational Leadership content assessment is designed to assess knowledge and skills for those completing GaPSC-approved Educational Leadership programs. The GACE Educational Leadership assessment is required for Educational Leadership Tier I and Tier II certification even if the educator has previously passed the Teacher Certification Test (TCT).

(b)

Individuals applying for certification in Educational Leadership Tier I or Tier II in Georgia based on reciprocity must pass the GACE Educational Leadership assessment or meet exemption criteria in (10)(a) for content knowledge assessment(s) appropriate to the field of educational leadership prior to the issuance of the Professional certificate:

1.	A one (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) to individuals applying for initial certification based on reciprocity who must satisfy the content assessment.

(c)	A passing score on the Performance-Based Assessment for School Leaders (PASL) is required for educators completing GaPSC-approved Tier II programs after 7/1/17.

(7)

Career and Technical Specializations.

(a)	For Career and Technical Specializations certificates, GaPSC accepts a number of different industry assessments offered by a variety of external organizations. The accepted assessments are detailed in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(8)

Foreign Language Assessment.

(a)

A GACE assessment is not available for certain foreign language fields. For these fields, the GaPSC requires The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) and Written Proficiency Test (WPT). If the OPI and WPT are passed for fields that have a GACE content assessment for issuance of a Permit, the GACE content assessment is not required for conversion of a Permit to an Induction or Professional certificate.

(b)

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) foreign language assessments are considered appropriate content assessments for adding a new foreign language teaching field in fields. The validation of passing levels of proficiency is the responsibility of the applicant and the employing local unit of administration (LUA). Contact information for scheduling the ACTFL is available at http://www.languagetesting.com/academic-services.

(c)

The GaPSC-accepted assessments for foreign language fields are as follows:

ROMAN-BASED ALPHABET

French	(GACE)
German	(GACE)
Italian	(GACE)
Latin	(GACE)
Portuguese	(ACTFL)
Spanish	(GACE)

NON-ROMAN BASED ALPHABET

Arabic	(ACTFL)
Chinese (Mandarin)	(ACTFL)
Farsi (Persian)	(ACTFL)
Hebrew	(ACTFL)
Japanese	(ACTFL)
Korean	(ACTFL)
Russian	(ACTFL)
Swahili	(ACTFL)
Turkish	(ACTFL)
Urdu	(ACTFL)

OTHER

American Sign Language (GACE)

1.	The ACTFL assessments for Greek are not Greek (Classical), and therefore are not accepted for the Georgia Greek (Classical) Permit or Certificate.

2.	At the time of this rule change, the WPT is not available in the language of Swahili. Until the WPT in this field is available, the OPI will meet assessment requirements for Swahili.

3.	For the Roman-Based Alphabet ACTFL assessments, the passing proficiency level for the OPI and the WPT is "Advanced-Low."

4.	For the Non-Roman Based Alphabet ACTFL assessments, the passing proficiency level for the OPI and the WPT is "Intermediate-High."

(9)

Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA).

(a)	Individuals seeking licensure as an Educational Interpreter must meet assessment requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.16 EDUCATIONAL INTERPRETER LICENSE.

(10)

Content Exemption Criteria.

(a)

The GACE content assessment requirement may be exempted in the following circumstances:

1.

Veteran out-of-state educators moving into Georgia may be eligible to exempt all Special Georgia Requirements except the Standards of Conduct. To be eligible, the individual must hold a valid out-of-state certificate and have a minimum of five (5) full years of successful education experience as defined in section (5) of GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS.

2.

Individuals holding a valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification in the specific certificate field, with the exception of the Middle Grades Generalist field are exempted from the content assessment requirement. The NBPTS Middle Grades Generalist field does not exempt the GACE Middle Grades content assessments.

3.	Out-of-state professional certificate holders applying for initial Georgia certification who have passed the out-of-state content assessment required for issuance of the out-of-state certificate field.

4.	Individuals seeking certification in a field for which the GaPSC has not adopted a content assessment.

(11)

Previous State-Approved Assessments.

(a)

Georgia honors passing scores on previous state-approved Georgia assessments that are passed during the validity period for those assessments. The following are previous Georgia state-approved assessments:

1.

Georgia Teacher Certification Test (TCT):

(i)	The TCT was the first content assessment required for Georgia certification effective July 1, 1978, through June 30, 1997.

(ii)	Individuals who obtained a passing score on the Special Education Professional Knowledge TCT assessment at the time it was required now meet the certification assessment requirement for the fields of Special Education Adapted Curriculum (P-12) and Special Education General Curriculum (P-12).

(iii)

The GaPSC will accept passing scores on a TCT assessment taken in a broad-field area (Science or Social Science) to award certification in the comparable field currently issued.

2.

Praxis Series:

(i)	The Praxis Series replaced the TCT effective July 1, 1997.

(ii)

For Georgia certification candidates in the field of Speech and Language Pathology, the Praxis II Speech and Language Pathology Assessment (Test 0330) will remain the required assessment as it is accepted for national licensing with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The passing score may be found at http://www.gapsc.com/EducatorPreparation/Assessment/passingscores.aspx.

(iii)

The GaPSC accepts a passing score on the Praxis Paraprofessional Assessment taken before June 30, 2007.

(iv)	The GaPSC accepts passing scores on the required Georgia Praxis assessment in Educational Leadership (Test 0410) on or before March 15, 2008.

3.

The GACE replaced the Praxis Series for most fields on September 1, 2006; however, the GaPSC accepts passing scores on the required Georgia Praxis assessment taken in its entirety on or before March 5, 2007, except in the field of Educational Leadership. The GACE Educational Leadership assessment is required for educators completing Educational Leadership programs [See 7(a) and 7(b)].

4.

The School Leaders Licensure Assessment:

(i)	The GaPSC accepts passing scores on the Praxis School Leaders Licensure Assessment (Test 1010) taken on or after July 1, 2005, through March 15, 2008.

5.

Georgia Paraprofessional Assessment:

(i)	The Georgia Paraprofessional Assessment was administered July 2002 and November 2002, and was replaced by the Praxis Paraprofessional Assessment and later with the GACE Paraprofessional assessment.

6.

Content Pedagogy Assessment (edTPA) September 1, 2015 - July 1, 2020:

(i)

A passing score on the GaPSC-approved content pedagogy assessment (edTPA) was required for the following:

(I)	Issuance of an Induction certificate to any individual who completed the clinical practice or student teaching requirements of the GaPSC-approved or GaPSC-accepted initial certification program on or after September 1, 2015.

(II)	Conversion of an Induction Pathway Four (4) or Provisional teaching certificate held by any individual who completed the clinical practice or student teaching requirements of the GaPSC-approved or GaPSC-accepted initial certification program on or after September 1, 2015.

7.

Educator Ethics Assessments:

(i)

Georgia Educator Ethics - Program Entry Assessment: January 1, 2015 - July 1, 2020:

(I)

Completion of the Georgia Educator Ethics - Program Entry Assessment was required for issuance of a Pre-Service certificate unless an applicant was continuously enrolled in the same educator preparation program since July 1, 2014, or earlier. Note: the term "enrolled" was defined as admitted to a program and actively taking coursework.

(II)	Completion of the Georgia Educator Ethics - Program Entry Assessment was required for issuance of an Induction Pathway Four (4) or Provisional certificate.

(III)

GACE Educator Ethics - Program Entry Assessment will continue to be accepted for individuals who previously completed the assessment for program admission or issuance of a Provisional certificate.

(ii)	Georgia Educator Ethics - Program Exit Assessment was rebranded as the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(iii)

Georgia Ethics for Educational Leadership - Program Entry Assessment, January 15, 2016 - July 1, 2020:

(I)	Georgia Ethics for Educational Leadership - Program Entry Assessment was required for issuance of a Non-Renewable certificate in Educational Leadership for completion of an approved program.

(II)	Georgia Ethics for Educational Leadership - Program Entry Assessment will continue to be accepted for individuals who previously completed the assessment for program admission or issuance of a Non-Renewable certificate.

(iv)	GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership - Program Exit was rebranded as GACE Ethics for Educational Leadership.

(12)

Duplicate Score Reports.

(a)

The GaPSC, as a courtesy to the state's educators, can provide certain official test score information for those assessments whose scores are otherwise not retrievable. The GaPSC does not charge for the retrieval, validation, or mailing of the score. Complete information on how to request test scores can be accessed at http://www.gapsc.com/EducatorPreparation/Assessment/testScoreRequest.aspx.

1.

Test Scores available from GaPSC:

(i)	Teacher Certification Test (TCT) regardless of score report date.

(ii)	Georgia state-administered Paraprofessional assessment, in 2002 only.

(iii)

Praxis I and Praxis II assessments taken on or prior to September 1, 2006.

2.	For any GACE scores, examinees must contact the appropriate testing Supplier for the GACE program. Complete contact information is provided at http://www.gapsc.com/EducatorPreparation/Assessment/testScoreRequest.aspx.

(13)

Every Student Succeeds Acts (ESSA) In-Field Assessment Requirements.

(a)	For complete ESSA in-field requirements, including assessment, please refer to the Georgia Department of Education website at www.gadoe.org.

Rule 505-2-.27 Certification Application, MyPSC and Test Eligibility Procedures

(1)	Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures to apply for Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) certification/licensure, registering for a MyPSC account, and securing eligibility to register for GACE assessments.

(2)

MyPSC Account.

(a)

Registration

1.	Application submission for individuals applying for certification begins by registering for a MyPSC account at https://mypsc.gapsc.org/Register.aspx.

2.

A Certification ID is assigned to all newly registered individuals and is used for certification identification purposes. Educators holding a valid or expired GA certificate / license will have an assigned number prior to registering for a MyPSC account. The number may be obtained by registering for a MyPSC Account or visiting https://www.gapsc.com/Certification/Lookup.aspx.

(b)

Application

1.

The application is available after logging into MyPSC and selecting the Applications/ Documentation/Status tab. Once in the Applications/Documentation/Status tab, click on the Start button to complete the online application. Multiple certification transactions may be requested with the submission of one application.

2.

MyPSC Personal Affirmation Questions (PAQs) are required as part of a complete application. Current PAQs must be on file for applications submitted during the fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30. There are certain transactions that only require PAQs rather than a complete online application. These transactions are outlined in Section (8)(a) 3 below on gapsc.com.

3.

Online applications that are complete are essential for timely processing. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that a complete application is submitted. The application is considered complete when all requirements for certification or licensure have been completed, the online application has been submitted, and all required documentation and fees have been received.

4.

Incomplete applications will be placed on hold for a period of up to forty-five (45) days, awaiting receipt of the remaining documents. A letter outlining missing documentation will be posted to the Correspondence/Notifications tab of MyPSC and an email reminder sent to the email on file. If all documentation is not received by the Certification Division during this time period, the application will close.

5.	Once a case closes, an individual must submit a new online application, as well as any missing or updated documents. Documents previously submitted to the GaPSC will remain on file even if a case is closed.

(c)

Supporting Documentation

1.

Supporting documentation will vary according to the type of transaction and certificate or license being requested. Individuals are responsible for submitting appropriate materials and following the instructions made available in this rule and with the online application process. Supporting documentation received without an application will be placed in the individual's file, but will not open a case for processing.

2.	Documentation may be submitted electronically to the GaPSC by the individual, or by a local unit of administration (LUA) or Educator Preparation Provider (EPP) as outlined in Section (3) below.

3.

All documentation submitted to the GaPSC must include the Certification Identification Number. If the number is not included and the document does not reflect ample information to identify the individual, posting documentation to the file will be delayed. The number may be obtained by logging into MyPSC or visiting https://www.gapsc.com/Certification/Lookup.aspx.

4.

All supporting documents must be complete and official. The GaPSC will accept official documentation submitted by applicants, LUAs, EPPs, college registrars' offices, Regional Educational Service Agencies (RESAs) or other official sources in the manner prescribed in Sections (7), (8), and (9) below.

5.	Documentation has been received when viewable in the View Submitted Documents tab of MyPSC. If the documents submitted are not viewable, the GaPSC has not received the documentation and individuals should continue to monitor this tab for receipt.

(d)

GAPSC Issued Certificates and Correspondence

1.	Correspondence detailing missing documentation for incomplete applications is posted to the Correspondence/Notifications tab in MyPSC.

2.	Correspondence may accompany issuance of a certificate/license outlining requirements. All correspondence is posted to the Correspondence/Notifications tab in MyPSC.

3.	Official certificates and licenses may be viewed/printed from the Certificate/License tab in MyPSC. Certificates/Licenses will not be mailed.

4.	Individuals must monitor their MyPSC account for receipt of submitted documents and to check the status of an application.

(e)

GACE Eligibility

1.

Individuals must request and be granted eligibility to test by the GaPSC before creating a GACE account and registering for a test, with the exception of the GACE Paraprofessional assessment.

(i)	Login to MyPSC at https://mypsc.gapsc.org/home.aspx.

(ii)	Click on the Assessments tab and follow the instructions to request eligibility.

(iii)

Once eligibility is transferred, you may proceed to the GACE website to create an account and register for a test.

2.	Questions regarding GACE registration, test preparation, and assessment score reporting should be directed to GACE.

(3)

ExpressLane.

(a)

ExpressLane must be utilized by a local unit of administration (LUA) or a Georgia Educator Preparation Provider (EPP) when submitting documentation to the GaPSC. LUA and EPP personnel must first request and be approved for gapsc.org access. Once granted, ExpressLane is available to LUAs and EPPs as part of the gapsc.org account.

1.	LUAs and EPPs must monitor the educator/candidate certification file in gapsc.org for receipt of submitted documents, issuance of correspondence, and to check the status of an application.

(4)

Traditional Program Management System (TPMS).

(a)	TPMS is a data collection system utilized by EPPs to verify program admission and completion for candidates enrolled in traditional (college/university) programs.

(5)

Non Traditional Reporting System (NTRS).

(a)	NTRS is a data collection system utilized by EPPs to verify program admission and completion for candidates enrolled in GaTAPP and alternative leadership programs.

(6)

Documentation and Forms.

(a)	Personal Affirmation Questions

(b)	Online Application

(c)	Verification of Lawful Presence

(d)	Official Transcripts

(e)	Foreign Credential Report

(f)	Approved Program Completion

(g)	Certificate or License

(h)	Experience Verification

(i)	Assessment Score Reports

(j)	Employer Assurance

(k)	Alternate Level Six Certification Option

(l)	Upgrade Degree Approval

(m)	Dramatic Writing Verification

(n)	Professional Learning Verification

(o)	Voluntary Certificate Field Deletion

(p)	Verification of Degree Validation

(q)	International Exchange Verification

(r)	Temporary Certification ID Number

(a)

Personal Affirmation Questions (PAQs) are a set of questions individuals applying for certification must answer for processing of certification transactions. False answers may be grounds for disciplinary action. A "Yes" response to any question requires an attached explanation with supporting documentation and will be investigated by the GaPSC Ethics Division. This documentation should not be uploaded to the MyPSC account but sent directly to the Ethics Division. All individuals applying for certification or planning to apply for certification must complete PAQs through their MyPSC Account for the current fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30.

(b)	An online application is required to open certain certification transactions for processing by the GaPSC. It is completed through an individual's MyPSC Account. The online application is required in addition to PAQs as outlined in Sections (7) and (8) below.

(c)

Verification of Lawful Presence is required by Georgia law, O.C.G.A. 50-36-1, and stipulates that "every agency or political subdivision shall verify the lawful presence in the United States of any applicant for public benefits." The documentation requires a notarized affidavit, and the supporting document that was used to verify status (Ex: Driver's license for US citizen). All US citizens must verify lawful presence once, and individuals who are not US citizens will verify lawful status prior to processing each certification transaction unless previous verification is under 180 days. This documentation may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA or EPP though ExpressLane.

(d)

Official transcripts are unaltered transcripts embossed with the stamp or signature of the college registrar, imprinted with a college or university seal, or imprinted with a special seal used by the institution for certification purposes. Transcripts must include course numbers, titles, grades and credit earned. When a degree is awarded, transcripts must also bear a degree statement and date that specifies the month, day and year the degree was awarded. The GaPSC will accept electronic transcripts from institutions of higher learning only if the transcripts are directly delivered to the GaPSC by a Georgia LUA, EPP or one of the GaPSC-approved secure electronic transcript delivery services. GaPSC will reject any transcript faxed, emailed, mailed, or uploaded by an educator to their MyPSC account.

1.

Official Georgia Professional Learning Unit (PLU) and Continuing Education Unit (CEU) transcripts must reflect the name of the individual awarded credit along with provider name, course title, completion date, and credit earned. PLU and CEU transcripts may be uploaded to MyPSC by an individual unless CEUs are through a college/university, which must be submitted as outlined above.

(e)

A foreign credential report is required for individuals who have attended colleges or universities outside the United States. Individuals must provide the GaPSC with a detailed course-by-course credential report of college-level credit completed unless a subsequent advanced degree was earned from a US institution and the degree earned outside the country was not an educator preparation program degree. The course-by-course evaluation must be prepared by a GaPSC-recognized agency, and include English translation of such information as course titles, grade, semester hours earned, and U.S. equivalency of degree(s). In addition, if the equivalent of a GaPSC-approved educator preparation program was completed, this must also be documented in the report. These agencies are private enterprises who charge a fee for their services. Regardless of the agency selected, should the report not be sufficiently detailed for processing purposes, further information will be requested. See Rule 505-2-.29 EVALUATION OF CREDIT EARNED OUTSIDE OF THE U.S. This documentation may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA or EPP though ExpressLane.

(f)

Approved program completion is required to verify program completion for teaching, service and leadership fields unless an out-of-state professional certificate is submitted and accepted by the GaPSC based on reciprocity. The form must be completed by a certification official at a GaPSC-accepted college with a state-approved educator preparation program in the field requested. This form is also required when an individual completes a leadership degree and the GaPSC must determine if a leader level is applicable, even if the individual is not applying for leadership certification. See Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION for more information on the leader level. This form may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA though ExpressLane.

1.	The NTRS completion form will be electronically generated and posted to the candidate's certification file once a program provider verifies all requirements for program completion have been met.

2.	The TPMS completion form will be electronically generated and posted to the candidate's certification file once a program provider verifies all requirements for program completion have been met.

(g)

A professional certificate or license is required as supporting documentation for a transaction request from individuals applying by reciprocity, renewing a GA certificate based on out-of-state experience, for certain service fields, or Career and Technical Specialization fields, See Rule 505-2-.90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS. The GaPSC will accept copies of official certificates. However, an unofficial printout from a personal online account is not acceptable unless the information is publically verifiable. The GaPSC maintains a record of all valid and expired Georgia educator certificates, so Georgia educator certificates should not be submitted to the GaPSC unless specifically requested. This documentation may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA or EPP though ExpressLane.

(h)

Experience verification is required to verify educational work experience for certification purposes. Experience for other purposes such as salary determination is handled by the LUA. Experience in Georgia public schools is reported electronically and should not be verified on this form. Georgia accredited private schools without access to ExpressLane may use this form to verify experience. This form may be used to verify out-of-state educator experience for initial certification by reciprocity and renewal for educators working outside the state. Experience must indicate performance ratings to be accepted for certification purposes. Otherwise, performance documentation must accompany the form. This form may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA though ExpressLane.

1.

This form is not accepted to verify occupational work experience for Career & Technical Specializations, Healthcare Science, and the following Permit fields: Art, Dance, Drama, Music, and Superintendent. Experience to qualify for these fields must be submitted on official letterhead from previous employers to include a signature.

2.	If the form is updated to indicate missing information, a new signature and date must be reflected on the form.

(i)

Assessment score reports are required as supporting documentation for certain certification transactions. The GaPSC will accept copies of official out-of-state score reports. However, an unofficial printout from a personal online account is not acceptable. If an out-of-state applicant is unable to obtain an official score report copy, the GaPSC will accept verification by official correspondence from the certification/licensure office in the state for which the assessment was required. GACE scores must be received electronically by the GaPSC. GACE assessments with more than one test will not reflect on the file until both tests are passed. GACE score reports should not be submitted to the GaPSC by an individual unless specifically requested. Official non-GACE assessment score report copies may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA or EPP though ExpressLane.

(j)

Employer assurance is required to verify employment in a Georgia LUA, document transaction requests made by Georgia LUAs, and waive certification fees for certain transactions. Georgia LUAs must submit the form electronically to the GaPSC. Georgia private schools without access to ExpressLane may use this form to verify employment for upload to MyPSC by an individual. The ExpressLane cover page may serve as the Employer Assurance form when a transaction is requested in ExpressLane.

(k)

Alternate level six certification option is required to verify completion of a minimum of thirty-six (36) semester hours of course work required for a level seven (7) doctoral degree and successful completion of the oral and/or written comprehensive examinations in order to determine if an individual qualifies for the alternate level 6 certificate upgrade. This form may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA or EPP though ExpressLane.

(l)

Upgrade degree approval is required to determine the acceptability of an advanced degree program for a certificate level upgrade when the program of interest is not listed in the Certificate Upgrade Advisor. This form should be submitted prior to enrollment in a prospective advanced degree program and should not be submitted with an upgrade application request.

(m)

Dramatic writing verification is required to document completion of the Georgia Film Academy (GFA) Dramatic Writing Film, Television, and Theatre I training course for the purpose of adding the Dramatic Writing Micro-Endorsement. This form is available from the GFA and may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA though ExpressLane. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.187 DRAMATIC WRITING MICRO-ENDORSEMENT.

(n)

Professional learning verification is required to document completion of a Professional Learning Plan or Professional Learning Goals during or after the FY 2018 school year for educators no longer employed by a Georgia LUA at the time of certificate renewal. This form may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA though ExpressLane.

(o)	Voluntary certificate field deletion is required to request deletion of a certificate field held by an educator. This form may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA though ExpressLane. See GaPSC rule 505-2-.35 VOLUNTARY FIELD DELETION.

(p)

Verification of degree validation is required to validate a bachelor's degree from non GaPSC-accepted institutions upon successful completion of nine (9) semester hours of graduate level coursework at a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution. This form may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA or EPP though ExpressLane. An official transcript of the coursework used to validate the degree must also be submitted using procedures outlined in (6)(d) above. See GaPSC rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION FOR CERTIFICATION PURPOSES.

(q)

International exchange verification is required for educators seeking the International Exchange certificate to verify that all eligibility requirements have been met at the time of application. This form may be uploaded to MyPSC by the applicant or submitted by the LUA though ExpressLane. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.11 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE.

(r)

Temporary Certification ID Number is required for certification applicants without a social security number issued by Social Security Administration. A temporary number is generated by the GaPSC in order to create a certification file and for GACE testing only. Upon issuance of a social security number by the Social Security Administration, the individual must upload a copy of the social security card to their MyPSC account and request to have the information updated. Individuals requiring a Temporary Certification ID Number must contact the GaPSC by email for the form and procedures.

(7)

Applying Independently.

(a)

Georgia Educators: The online application is required for individuals who hold or previously held Georgia certification and are applying for certification without the support of a LUA.

1.	GA Educators may apply independently for the transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com.

(b)

Out-of-State Educators: The online application may be submitted by individuals applying for initial certification by reciprocity or based on completion of out-of-state educator preparation programs. If an out-of-state educator becomes employed prior to submission of an application for certification, the LUA may submit documentation in support of the educator. Educators should always communicate with their employer to coordinate submission of documentation. Common certificate types and required documentation are available on the GaPSC website as indicated below.

1.	Individuals applying by reciprocity may apply independently for the transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com.

2.	Individuals applying based on completion of out-of-state educator preparation programs may apply independently for the transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com.

(8)

Applying with Employer (LUA) Support.

(a)

Applying with Employer (LUA) support is required for processing certain certification transactions for licenses like the Paraprofessional license, certificates like the Provisional and One-Year Induction certificate that are issued prior to an individual meeting requirements for full certification, or certificate renewals for those employed. Common licensure and certificate types and required documentation are available on the GaPSC website.

1.	The initial licensure transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com require employment and request submitted by the LUA through ExpressLane.

2.	The initial certificate transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com require employment and request submitted by the LUA through ExpressLane.

3.	The transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com are available for Georgia Educators and only require PAQs and a request submitted by the LUA through ExpressLane.

4.	The transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com are processed automatically by the GaPSC and no action is required on the part of the individual or LUA.

(9)

Educator Preparation Program Application.

(a)	Individuals enrolled in initial GaPSC-approved programs must be entered and completed in TPMS or NTRS by the program provider before applying for the transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com.

(b)	Individuals completing GaPSC-accepted out-of-state/online teaching programs who are completing student teaching/practicums in GA schools must be entered and completed by the EPP in TPMS before applying for the transactions identified on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com.

(10)

Restrictions.

(a)	All documents submitted become the property of the GaPSC, and the GaPSC will not retrieve or return original documents or copies to the sender or to any other destination on behalf of the sender.

(b)	Mailed, faxed, or emailed documentation will not be processed by the GaPSC.

(c)	Employed educators are encouraged to check with their employing LUA before submitting documents directly to the GaPSC.

(d)

"Yes" answers to PAQs require submission of the online application and appropriate documentation to the Ethics Division.

1.	Educators with Property Rights will be processed once the online application and supporting documentation is received by the Ethics Division.

(e)	Individuals may not withdraw an application with a "Yes" answer on PAQs or pending with the Ethics Division. All other withdrawals may be requested in writing at https://www.gapsc.com/Certification/EmailPSC.aspx

Rule 505-2-.28 Certification Fees

(1)

Requirements.

(a)

An applicant for certification shall be required to pay a $20 fee for all certification transactions, with the following exceptions:

1.

An applicant employed by a Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) shall be exempt from the $20 fee for the following transactions:

(i)	Initial certification (first Georgia certificate);

(ii)	Upgrading to a higher-level certificate (based on the awarding of a higher degree) when the applicant holds a Georgia certificate;

(iii)

Adding a field to a certificate;

(iv)	Renewal of any certificate;

(v)	Conversion from any Non-Renewable certificate to a renewable certificate; and

(vi)	Moving from one (1) certification tier to another.

2.	An applicant for initial certification who graduated from a GaPSC-approved educator preparation program shall be exempt from the $20 fee; and

3.	No fee is required for changing the legal name on a certificate.

(b)	For any application transaction that requires a fee, the application or request shall be accompanied by a cashier's check or money order made payable to the State of Georgia in the correct amount. The fee may also be paid by credit card through an applicant's MyPSC account.

(c)	To qualify for exemption of the certification fee based on employment, the LUA must verify employment following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

Rule 505-2-.29 Evaluation Of Credit Earned Outside Of The U.S

(1)

Foreign Credential Reports. Applicants for certification who have attended colleges or universities outside the United States must provide the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) with a detailed course-by-course credential report of college-level credit completed. These "foreign credential reports" must be independent reviews prepared by GaPSC-recognized agencies, and include English translation of such information as course titles, grade, semester hours earned, U.S. equivalency of degree earned, course-by-course evaluations, etc. In addition, if the equivalent of a GaPSC-approved educator preparation program was completed, this must also be documented in the report. These agencies are private enterprises who charge a fee for their services. Regardless of the agency selected, should the report not be sufficiently detailed for our purpose further information will be requested. The GaPSC reserves the right to review and accept or reject any information contained in a report.

(2)

Memoranda of Understanding. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) shall be accepted as the foreign credential evaluation for foreign evaluators as long as all eligibility requirements for the International Exchange Certificate specified in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.11 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE have been met. Such MOU must be recommended by the State Superintendent of the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) and the Executive Secretary of the GaPSC and furthermore, such MOU must be approved by both the State Board and the GaPSC.

(3)

U.S. Territories, Possessions, or Commonwealths. Applicants who have completed course work at colleges or universities located in U.S. territories, possessions or commonwealths must submit "foreign credential reports." However, if the territories, possessions or commonwealths have signed the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement, certification by Interstate Reciprocity may be applicable See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.21 CERTIFICATION BY INTERSTATE RECIPROCITY.

(4)

Exceptions. If the courses/degrees earned outside of the U.S. are unrelated to the educator certification transaction being requested and subsequent degree(s) have been received from GaPSC-accepted accredited U.S. colleges or universities, submission of the "foreign credential report" is optional. However, applicants are encouraged to provide the report as it may affect later certification application decisions.

(5)	Expense. Any expense incurred for obtaining a credential report from a credentialing agency is the responsibility of the applicant.

(6)	Submission. The completed "foreign credential report" must be submitted to the GaPSC as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(7)

Acceptable Credential Review Agencies. There is no single regulatory agency that approves U.S. foreign credential review agencies. The GaPSC will only accept reports from agencies identified on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com. You may click on the link to access contact information. As fees and procedures vary from agency to agency, it is suggested that you contact the organizations of your choice for additional information on the specific services and charges.

Rule 505-2-.30 Referral to Educator Ethics Division

(1)

Purpose. The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) Educator Ethics Division is responsible for administering the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators. This code defines the professional behavior of educators and serves as a guide to standards and ethical conduct generally accepted by the educational profession.

(2)

Procedures.

(a)

During the certificate application process, the Certification Division refers all legal and ethical questions or concerns to the Educator Ethics Division. When an application for initial certification is referred, all processing of that individual's application is discontinued until a final decision is made by the GaPSC. Notification of the case's referral is sent to the applicant at the time it is referred.

(b)	Georgia educators holding valid or expired certificates or licenses have property rights and processing of their applications is not discontinued while a final decision is made by the GaPSC.

(3)

Disciplinary Action. If a referral and the subsequent investigation lead to disciplinary action by the GaPSC, the following types of discipline may occur: revocation; denial; suspension; reprimand; warning; or monitoring. In addition, following due process procedures, the results of all disciplinary actions are submitted to the National Clearinghouse, a centralized database of disciplinary actions taken against educator certificate holders by all fifty (50) states and Washington, D.C. The Clearinghouse is operated by the National Associate of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) and all states may access this database during their state certificate application process.

(4)	Resources. Additional information on the GaPSC Educator Ethics Division, the Code of Ethics for Educators and the investigative process is posted on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-Accepted Accreditation for Certification Purposes

(1)

Purpose. The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) recognizes only those colleges and universities that have attained accreditation from specific, GaPSC-accepted accreditation agencies as a minimum qualitative standard. Additional accreditation requirements apply to colleges and universities at which educators earn degrees in order to upgrade their certificates (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE). Accreditation may also be required of P-12 schools and early care centers in order for certified educator experience earned in those settings to be considered for certification purposes (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS).

(2)

Acceptable Postsecondary Accrediting Organizations.

(a)

The GaPSC accepts accrediting organizations that are recognized by either The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE). These accrediting organizations, which include a wide range of national, regional, specialized and professional accrediting bodies, have completed an evaluation process to verify acceptable levels of quality and performance.

(b)	Georgia educators seeking advanced degrees for a certificate level upgrade must complete degrees that meet additional requirements found in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE.

(c)

Electronic links to the approved accrediting agencies are as follows:

1.

Council for Higher Education Accreditation: www.chea.org:

(i)

National Organizations:

(I)	Faith-Related;

(II)	Career-Related; and

(III)

Programmatic;

(ii)	Regional Organizations; and

(iii)

Database of Accredited Institutions and Programs;

2.

USDOE: www.ed.gov:

(i)	Regional and National Institutions;

3.	NCATE/TEAC/CAEP: http://caepnet.org/; and

4.

Carnegie Classifications:http://carnegieclassifications.iu.edu:

(i)	Research University/Very High; and

(ii)	Research University/High.

(3)

Acceptable P-12 Accrediting Organizations.

(a)

Acceptable P-12 educational settings for GaPSC-accepted educator experience are outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS. As outlined in that rule, accreditation is required in some circumstances. A list of acceptable P-12 accrediting organizations is maintained on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com. The GaPSC also accepts any P-12 accreditation recognized by the agency that oversees P-12 education in the state or jurisdiction in which the accredited school is based.

(4)

Acceptable Early Care Accrediting Organizations.

(a)

Acceptable early care educational settings for GaPSC-accepted educator experience are outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS. As outlined in that rule, accreditation is required in some circumstances. A list of acceptable early care accrediting organizations is maintained on the GaPSC website at www.gapsc.com.The GaPSC also accepts any early care accreditation recognized by the agency that oversees early care in the state or jurisdiction in which the accredited early care center is based.

(5)

Accreditation Requirements. In order to be accepted for certification purposes in Georgia, degrees and educator preparation programs must be completed at a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution that held acceptable accreditation at the time the individual was admitted to the program.

(a)	Out-of-state approved programs (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.22 CERTIFICATION BY STATE-APPROVED PROGRAM) completed at the bachelor's degree level at an institution that is not GaPSC-approved as accredited will not be subject to the validation requirement.

(6)

Validation of Non-Accredited Degrees. Validation of a bachelor's degree from non GaPSC-accepted institutions must be accomplished by completing course work at a GaPSC-accepted accredited graduate school. Also, a degree from a currently accepted accredited institution must be validated if it was earned at a time when that institution was not accredited.

(a)

To validate a bachelor's degree from a college with accreditation not accepted by GaPSC, the applicant must have earned nine (9) semester hours of acceptable graduate credit at a GaPSC-accepted accredited graduate school. All course work for validation must be earned with a grade of "B" or better in each course. The course work must be earned in the field in which certification is sought or toward a planned master's or higher degree program.

(b)	If a master's or higher-level degree was earned at an institution with accreditation not accepted by the GaPSC, the degree will not be accepted for certification purposes under any conditions. These degrees cannot be validated.

Rule 505-2-.32 Validity Periods and Dating of Certificates

(1)	Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for determining the validity period, effective date and issue date of certificates and licensure.

(2)

Validity Periods. Certificate fields are issued with specific validity periods depending upon the type and title (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION).

(a)

The standard validity periods for the various types and titles of certificates are as follows:

1.

Induction, Standard Professional, Performance-Based Professional, Advanced Professional and Lead Professional certificates are valid for five (5) years (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE, 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE, 505-2-.06 ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL and 505-2-.07 LEAD PROFESSIONAL) with the following exceptions:

(i)	A renewable professional certificate issued to an individual holding another unexpired, renewable professional certificate is only valid for the remaining validity period of the existing renewable professional certificate.

(ii)	A One (1)-year or Three (3)-year Induction certificate may be issued to those meeting criteria outlined in Rule 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE.

2.	Life certificates are valid for the educator's lifetime, but are issued with validity periods for record-keeping purposes. During the certificate holder's lifetime, a Life certificate is automatically renewed at the end of the validity period (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.12 LIFE CERTIFICATE).

3.	Pre-Service certificates are valid for five (5) years unless otherwise outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.03 PRE-SERVICE CERTIFICATE.

4.	Provisional certificates are valid for three (3) years unless otherwise outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE.

5.	Non-Renewable Professional certificates are valid for three (3) years unless otherwise outlined in rule noted in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

6.	International Exchange certificates are valid for three (3) years (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.11 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE).

7.	Waiver certificates and Adjunct licenses are valid for one (1) year (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.13 WAIVER CERTIFICATE and 505-2-.15 ADJUNCT LICENSE).

8.

Educational Interpreter licenses, Non-Instructional Aide licenses, Paraprofessional licenses and Support Personnel licenses are valid for five (5) years (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.16 EDUCATIONAL INTERPRETER LICENSE, 505-2-.17 NON-INSTRUCTIONAL AIDE LICENSE, 505-2-.18 PARAPROFESSIONAL LICENSE and 505-2-.19 SUPPORT PERSONNEL LICENSE):

(i)	Non-Renewable Educational Interpreter licenses and Non-Renewable Paraprofessional licenses are valid for one (1) year.

9.	Permit certificates are valid for three (3) years or five (5) years as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.10 PERMIT CERTIFICATE.

10.	Retired Educator certificates are valid for thirty (30) years.

11.	Clearance certificates are valid for five (5) years unless issued to coincide with the end validity of the base certificate.

(b)	The standard validity period of a certificate may be decreased by the number of years an individual held a Non-Renewable Professional or Waiver certificate for which requirements were not met.

(c)	Fields that are added to a valid certificate are valid only until the expiration date of the base field, at which time all fields renewed will have the same validity period.

(3)

Effective Date. The effective date of a certificate level or field is governed by employment, the category of certificate and the date the complete application package is received by the GaPSC. The effective date may also be based on the GaPSC fiscal year or academic school year, which is July 1 through June 30.

(a)

The effective date of a certificate level or a renewable certificate or license is the more recent of the following:

1.	The date on which requirements are completed.

2.

July 1 of the fiscal year in which the complete application package is submitted.

(i)	The effective date of a certificate field or level issued based on an approved certification appeal will be the date the Certification Appeals Committee approved the appeal.

(b)

The effective date of a Non-Renewable, Provisional, Permit, International Exchange certificate, or any other certificate or license not included in part (2)(a) is determined as follows:

1.	If the employment date is between July 1 and December 31 and the complete application package is received prior to the end of the fiscal year (June 30), the effective date is the beginning of the fiscal year (July 1) if all certification requirements are met prior to this date.

2.	If the employment date is between January 1 and June 30 and the complete application package is received between January 1 and June 30, the effective date is January 1 if all certification requirements are met prior to this date.

3.	The effective dates of Waiver certificates are determined on a case-by-case basis.

(c)

Certificates will not normally be backdated prior to July 1 of the fiscal year in which the complete application package is received, regardless of the date requirements are met, with the following exception:

1.

If the superintendent of an employing local unit of administration submits a written statement verifying that all salary adjustments will be paid using only local funds, the GaPSC may issue a certificate or level with an effective date prior to July 1 of the fiscal year in which the complete application package is received.

(d)	Certification issued based on rule revision will not be issued prior to the effective date of the revised rule.

(4)

Expiration Dates. The expiration date of all certificates, with the exception of Waiver certificates, is June 30 of the final year of validity. The final year of validity is determined by adding the number of years of validity to the calendar year of the effective date of the certificate. For example, a five (5)-year certificate with an effective date of December 10, 2014, would expire on June 30, 2019. A five (5)-year certificate with an effective date of January 1, 2015, would expire on June 30, 2020.

(a)	The expiration dates of Waiver certificates are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Rule 505-2-.33 Certificate Upgrade

(1)

Summary: Educator certificate level upgrade requirements will lead educators to complete advanced degree programs closely aligned with their fields of certification, with institutions and programs meeting specified levels of accreditation, state approval, or quality assurances. A legacy_timeline is included to maintain the certificate level of currently certified educators and to protect the interests of certified educators currently enrolled in advanced degree programs. This rule applies only to the process of upgrading an existing certificate for a Georgia Educator. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.01 GEORGIA EDUCATOR CERTIFICATION for the definition of Georgia Educator. For the purposes of issuing an initial Georgia certificate or permit the criteria specified in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION applies.

(2)

Requirements. Valid level four (4) or higher Georgia teaching, service or leadership certificates with the following titles may be upgraded: Standard Professional, Performance-Based Professional, Advanced Professional, Lead Professional, Life or Induction. See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION for information related to upgrades of certificate levels one (1) and two (2). A certificate level upgrade may be earned by successfully completing an eligible advanced degree program from an eligible institution of higher education. There are two types of eligible advanced degree programs: In-Field programs and New Field programs. Higher education institution eligibility requirements follow each option.

(a)

In-Field Degree Programs: A certificate level upgrade may be earned through successful completion of an advanced degree program in a GaPSC certification field that is currently offered (See All Certification Fields Chart) and is held by the educator. Educators may earn upgrades through the completion of education degree programs (examples include but are not limited to M.Ed., Ed.S. and Ed.D.) or through the completion of content degree programs at the Master's degree level or higher (examples include but are not limited to M.A., M.S. and Ph.D.).

1.

In-Field programs eligible for certificate level upgrades may be completed with Georgia institutions or with out-of-state institutions meeting the criteria described below:

(i)

Georgia institutions must meet at least one of the following criteria:

(I)	The institution's educator preparation provider (EPP) is approved by the GaPSC at the time the individual is admitted to the program.

(II)	The institution holds a Carnegie Classification of Research University-Very High Research Activity (RU/VH) or Research University-High Research Activity (RU/H) at the time the individual is admitted to the program. For more information on the Carnegie Classification system, click here.

(ii)

Out-of-state institutions must meet at least one of the following criteria:

(I)	The EPP is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE),or the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) at the time the individual is admitted to the program.

(II)	The EPP has at least one program currently accredited by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC) at the time the individual is admitted to the program.

(III)

The institution holds a Carnegie Classification of Research University-Very High Research Activity (RU/VH) or Research University-High Research Activity (RU/H) at the time the individual is admitted to the program.

2.

An educator who completes an advanced degree in a field in which he or she is not certified, and which does not meet the requirements outlined below for New Field degree programs, may become eligible for an In-Field upgrade by qualifying to add the field to his or her certificate, as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD. If an educator in this situation applies to upgrade his or her certificate prior to adding the field in which the advanced degree was earned, the request will be put on hold pending addition of the field.

3.

An upgrade that is earned by completion of an advanced degree that is in-field with any certificate field other than an Educational Leadership field will be applied to the general level of the certificate. An upgrade that is earned by completion of an advanced degree that is in-field with an Educational Leadership certificate field will be applied to the leader level of the educator's certificate unless the certificate has not previously been assigned a leader level. If there is no previously assigned leader level, the upgrade will be applied to the general level. For more information on general and leader levels, see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION.

(b)

New Field Degree Programs: A certificate level upgrade may be earned through successful completion of a state-approved advanced degree program that leads to initial certification in a GaPSC certification field in which the educator had not previously completed a state-approved program. In order to qualify for a certificate level upgrade, educators must successfully complete the degree program, pass all appropriate Georgia content assessments, meet all certification requirements and add the new field to their certificate.

1.

Program approval requirements:

(i)	Programs offered by Georgia institutions leading to a new field of certification must be approved by the GaPSC.

(ii)	Programs offered by out-of-state institutions and leading to a new field of certification must be approved by the home state agency equivalent to the GaPSC.

(iii)

Programs offered by out-of-state-institutions must also meet at least one of the criteria listed below:

(I)	The EPP of an out-of-state institution must hold accreditation by NCATE, TEAC or CAEP at the time the educator is admitted to the program.

(II)	The out-of-state institution must hold a Carnegie Classification of RU/VH or RU/H at the time the educator is admitted to the program.

(III)

If the educator is completing a program to add the field of School Counseling, the out-of-state institution must be accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) at the time the educator is admitted to the program.

2.

Georgia-certified educators who complete in-state or out-of-state programs leading to certification in a new field must pass the GACE content assessment or other GaPSC-approved content assessment for that field with the following exceptions:

(i)	This requirement does not apply to fields in which there is no GaPSC-approved content assessment.

(ii)

Georgia-certified educators who completed out-of-state programs leading to certification in a new field prior to October 15, 2011, may exempt the content assessment requirement if they were required to pass an acceptable out-of-state content assessment in order to become certified in that field in another state.

3.

An upgrade that is earned by completion of a degree that leads to certification in any field other than Educational Leadership fields will be applied to the general level of the certificate. As outlined in O.C.G.A. 20-2-212, an upgrade that is earned by completion of a degree that leads to certification in an Educational Leadership field will result in the assignment of a leader level to the certificate, and will not change the general level, unless the leadership degree earned meets one of the following exemption criteria:

(i)	The leadership degree was awarded prior to July 1, 2010.

(ii)

The educator enrolled in the leadership preparation program on or before April 1, 2009, and was awarded one of the following leadership degrees by the dates indicated:

(I)	A master's level [level five (5)] leadership degree prior to July 1, 2012.

(II)	An education specialist level [level six (6)] leadership degree prior to July 1, 2013.

(III)

A doctoral level [level seven (7)] leadership degree prior to July 1, 2014.

(3)

Exceptions.

(a)	Pre-existing Georgia certificate levels: All certificate levels in place on December 15, 2010 will remain intact.

(b)

A legacy period is provided to protect the interests of educators actively pursuing an advanced degree at or near the original effective date of this rule (December 15, 2010). In order to upgrade a certificate under previous upgrade requirements, educators must meet two conditions: they must have been enrolled in an advanced degree program at a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION FOR CERTIFICATION PURPOSES) by July 15, 2011; and they must complete the same program - with the same degree objective and major and at the same institution - by the date specified in item 1, 2 or 3 below. Note: the term "enrolled" is defined as admitted to a program and actively participating in course work.

1.	Master's degree programs started on or before July 15, 2011, must have been completed by December 15, 2014.

2.	Specialist degree programs started on or before July 15, 2011, must have been completed by December 15, 2014.

3.	Doctoral degree programs started on or before July 15, 2011, must have been completed by December 15, 2016.

(c)

Educators enrolled in advanced degree programs in the certification fields of Teacher Leadership, Instructional Technology and Curriculum and Instruction at GaPSC-accepted accredited institutions (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION FOR CERTIFICATION PURPOSES) may upgrade their certificate under previous upgrade requirements if they were enrolled in the program by January 15, 2013, and if they completed the same program - with the same degree objective and major and at the same institution - by the date specified in item 1 or 2 below. Note: "enrolled" is defined as admitted to a program and actively participating in course work.

1.	Master's or specialist degree programs in the fields of Teacher Leadership, Instructional Technology and Curriculum and Instruction started on or before January 15, 2013, must have been completed by September 1, 2015.

2.	Doctoral degree programs in the fields of Teacher Leadership, Instructional Technology and Curriculum and Instruction started on or before January 15, 2013, must be completed by September 1, 2017.

(d)

An educator who earned initial Georgia certification through interstate reciprocity and was enrolled in an advanced degree program at the time the initial Georgia certificate was issued may upgrade his or her certificate without meeting all the requirements outlined in Section (2) above, subject to the following conditions:

1.

The educator must complete the same advanced degree program - with the same degree objective and major and at the same institution - in which he or she was enrolled at the time the initial Georgia certificate was issued. Note: "enrolled" is defined as admitted to a program and actively participating in course work.

2.

The degree must be completed within the following timeframes:

(i)	A master's or educational specialist degree must be completed within three (3) years of the date on which the initial Georgia certificate was issued.

(ii)	A doctoral degree must be completed within five (5) years of the date on which the initial Georgia certificate was issued.

3.	The degree must be completed at an institution that held a GaPSC-accepted accreditation at the time the educator was admitted to the program (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION FOR CERTIFICATION PURPOSES).

4.

The provisions outlined in this section apply only to certificate level upgrades, not to the addition of a new field based on completion of a program. In order to add a field to an existing certificate, all Georgia educators must meet the requirements outlined in Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD and other rules specific to the field to be added.

(4)

Eligibility Requirements. Educators holding a Georgia level four (4) or higher Non-Renewable Professional, Permit or Provisional certificate are not eligible to upgrade until conversion to the renewable Professional certificate (or for the Provisional certificate, conversion to a five (5) year Induction certificate). Initial issuance of the Non-Renewable Professional, Induction, Provisional, and Permit certificates will be as specified in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION.

(a)

Educators holding one of the following discontinued certificates that are valid on the effective date of this rule are not eligible to upgrade until conversion to the Professional certificate: Clinical Practice, Core-Academic, Intern, Non-Renewable Non-Professional, Induction Pathway 4, and One Year Supervised Practicum.

Rule 505-2-.34 Add a Field

(1)	Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for adding teaching, service and leadership fields to Professional and Induction certification.

(2)

Adding a Teaching Field.

(a)

To add any new teaching field to an existing level four (4) or higher Induction or professional teaching certificate, an individual may satisfy one of the following options:

1.

Complete a state-approved certification program in the new field, receive verification of program completion from the program provider per GaPSC Rule 505-2-.22 CERTIFICATION BY STATE-APPROVED PROGRAM, and complete all applicable Special Georgia Requirements per GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS;

2.

Pass the appropriate GACE content assessment(s) in the new field at the induction level or higher and complete all applicable Special Georgia Requirements as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS except for the fields of Special Education General Curriculum/Elementary Education P-5 and Elementary Education P-5. The fields of Special Education General Curriculum/Elementary Education and Elementary Education require completion of (2)(a)1. above. If no state-approved content assessment exists for the field, the individual must complete a state-approved program as outlined in section (2)(a)1. above; or

3.

To add any Career and Technical Specializations or Healthcare Science field to an Induction or professional certificate, an individual must complete the occupational experience in the area of specialization. For certain fields, an individual must hold and maintain a valid industry license and satisfy applicable assessments as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE or GaPSC Rule 505-2-90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(b)

To add any new teaching field to an existing certificate in any service or leadership field, an individual must:

1.

Complete a GaPSC-accepted state-approved certification program in the new field and receive verification of program completion from the program provider per GaPSC Rule 505-2-.22 CERTIFICATION BY STATE-APPROVED PROGRAM and complete all applicable Special Georgia Requirements per GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS.

(3)

Adding a Service Field.

(a)

To add any Service field to any established professional or Induction certificate, an individual must:

1.	Satisfy the requirements as outlined in the individual Service field rule.

(4)

Adding a Leadership Field.

(a)

To add any leadership field to an existing professional or Induction certificate, an individual must:

1.	Complete a GaPSC-approved program in the new field and receive verification of program completion from the program provider as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP and complete all applicable Special Georgia Requirements per GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS.

2.	To add the Superintendent Certificate field to an existing professional certificate, an individual must meet the requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.154 SUPERINTENDENT CERTIFICATE.

(5)

Adding Endorsements.

(a)

To add an endorsement to an existing level four (4) or higher professional certificate, an individual must hold the appropriate teaching, service or leadership type as outlined in the individual endorsement rule and satisfy one of the following options:

1.	Complete a GaPSC-accepted state-approved certification program in the endorsement field and receive verification of program completion from the program provider per GaPSC Rule 505-2-.22 CERTIFICATION BY STATE-APPROVED PROGRAM; or

2.	Hold a professional out-of-state certificate in the endorsement field.

(b)	The ESOL Endorsement, Online Teaching Endorsement, and Dramatic Writing Micro-Endorsement may be added to a valid Permit certificate in specific fields, as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.10 PERMIT CERTIFICATE.

(c)

To add an endorsement field to a valid Induction certificate, an individual must complete the requirements outlined in section (5)(a)1 or 2 above. An Individual will not be eligible for a professional certificate in endorsement fields until conversion of the base certificate to a professional certificate.

(6)

Adding a Field and Upgrading.

(a)

Georgia educators adding a new field by completion of a higher degree must meet additional requirements to qualify for a certificate level upgrade. In order to qualify for a certificate level upgrade, a Georgia educator must successfully complete the degree program, pass all appropriate GACE content assessments at the appropriate level, meet all certification requirements, and add the new field to their certificate as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE.

(7)

Restrictions.

(a)

For some certificate fields, state-approved programs are limited in number or restricted in geographic location, making it difficult to meet the hiring needs of local units of administration (LUAs). For these specific situations, as determined by the GaPSC on a case-by-case basis, the GaPSC shall maintain a process for establishing specific course work requirements to add the field based on a transcript review of prescribed courses.

(b)	Endorsements cannot be added to the Induction Pathway 4 or Provisional certificate.

Rule 505-2-.35 Voluntary Field Deletion

(1)

Purpose. Georgia educators may hold a number of different certificate types in a variety of fields. Holding multiple fields enables the educator to be assigned in-field in a variety of subjects, thereby providing increased flexibility for both job opportunities and assignments. However, the holder of a valid Georgia certificate may request the voluntary deletion of any certificate based on the procedures outlined in this rule.

(2)

Procedures.

(a)

Annually, between October 1st and the last day of the following February, any certificate holder may apply for and be granted the voluntary deletion of any certificate field(s) which shall become effective on June 30th of the school year of application. The employing local unit of administration (LUA) will automatically receive an electronic copy of the new certificate(s). This time period allows certificate holders to voluntarily delete certificates and also provides a time period for schools to plan for the assignment of their certified staff for the upcoming school year.

(b)	Request for voluntary deletion of the broad field Science certificate may not be made for individual subjects (biology, chemistry, physics, earth and space science) incorporated into the base certificate. The request will result in the deletion of the entire broad field Science certificate.

(3)

Certificate Level.

(a)

Requests for voluntary deletion of any field that resulted in an upgrade as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE will also result in the loss of the level associated with the field. The new level assigned will be determined by the rule(s) in effect at the time the previous level was awarded as defined by GaPSC Rules 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION and 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE.

(4)

Restoration of Deleted Fields. Any certificate field voluntarily deleted under the provisions of this rule will be restored only under the following conditions:

(a)	The educator applies to restore a voluntarily deleted field by submitting the appropriate form provided on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com;

(b)

The educator has satisfied the appropriate GACE content assessment(s) with a passing score at the professional level achieved after the date on which the voluntary deletion was approved. Any passing scores on content assessments in the field being restored taken prior to the date of deletion will not be accepted for restoration and re-verification of content knowledge; and

(c)	All other current Special Georgia Requirements have been completed at the time of application for restoring the field.

(5)	Resources. Specific application procedures as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES and document requirements may be found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.36 Renewal Requirements

(1)

Summary.

Georgia's renewable certificates are the Standard Professional, Performance-Based Professional, Advanced Professional, Lead Professional and Life certificates. Renewable licenses are Adjunct, Educational Interpreter, Non-Instructional Aide, Paraprofessional and Support Personnel. These certificates and licenses are valid for a five (5)-year period (except for the Life certificate), during which time the requirements outlined below must be met unless the most recent certificate or license issued is exempt from professional learning as outlined in section (8)(a) below.

(2)

Educators who work in schools, agencies, or other education organizations in Georgia.

(a)

Individuals employed by a Georgia LUA: certificate and license holders who are employed by a Georgia LUA in a position requiring certification at the time of renewal application must satisfy professional learning requirements as outlined below, with the exceptions noted in section 3 below. Employing LUAs shall document fulfillment of these requirements and verify their completion as part of the renewal application package:

1.	A criminal record check, unless exempted in section (4) below.

2.	Engaging in professional learning on a continuing basis by fully participating in the LUA's professional learning community as documented by the individual's supervisor and described in GaPSC Guidelines accompanying this rule.

3.

The following individuals employed by a Georgia LUA in a position requiring certification may renew their certificates without meeting the professional learning requirements outlined in this section:

(i)	Individuals who also hold valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification at the time of renewal in a field comparable to one held on their Georgia educator certificate.

(ii)

Individuals certified in the service fields of Speech and Language Pathology, Audiology, School Psychology, School Counseling and School Social Work who meet optional requirements associated with GaPSC-accepted state or national credentials as outlined in the appropriate GaPSC field rules as long as this is approved by the supervisor as appropriate for professional learning.

(iii)

Non-Instructional Aide, Support Personnel License, and Adjunct License holders shall complete professional learning as determined by the employing LUA.

(b)	Faculty of Georgia colleges/universities, and individuals who are no longer employed by Georgia LUAs in positions that require certification but are employed in Georgia education agencies or organizations, may renew certificates as described in Section (2)(a)(2) above.

(c)	Individuals employed at Georgia private schools may renew their certificates by completing the requirements outlined in Section (2)(a) above or by completing the requirements outlined in Section (3) below.

(3)

Educators who are not employed in schools, agencies, or other education organizations in Georgia.

(a)

Renewal requirements for certificates that are currently valid must have been completed during the validity period established on the certificate. Renewal requirements for expired certificates must have been completed within the five (5)-year period preceding the date of renewal application. Individuals may qualify for renewal through completion of one of the following:

1.

For individuals who have been employed by a Georgia LUA in a position requiring certification for at least one (1) school year during the most recent validity period of their certificate, and within five (5) years of the date of renewal application, submit documentation of completion of the professional learning requirements outlined in Section (a) above during at least one (1) qualifying year of employment beginning with the 2017-18 school year.

2.

Complete any combination of the following:

(i)

Six (6) semester hours of college course work.

(I)

College course work must be earned at an institution that meets the accreditation standards outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.31 GaPSC-ACCEPTED ACCREDITATION; VALIDATION OF NON-ACCREDITED DEGREES. Final course grades must be "B" or better. Developmental/Remedial studies courses and course work that is audited and/or exempted without credit shall not be accepted.

(ii)

Ten (10) Georgia Professional Learning Units (PLUs).

(I)	PLUs must be awarded by a State of Georgia education agency, a Regional Educational Services Agency (RESA), a Georgia LUA or a GaPSC-approved college or university. Only LUAs offering GAPSC-approved programs may offer PLUs for renewal purposes.

(iii)

Ten (10) Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

(I)

CEUs must be issued by a GaPSC-accepted accredited college or university or a provider authorized by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET). Ten (10) contact hours are the equivalent of one (1) CEU. These credits must be reflected on CEU transcripts or "certificates of completion" which include the name of the organization issuing the credits, the name of the educator receiving the credits, the title of the course, the date the course began and date of completion, and the number of CEUs being authorized.

(iv)

One hundred (100) hours BFTS-approved trainings.

(I)	BFTS-approved trainings may be found on the BFTS website at http://decal.ga.gov.

(v)	Hold valid National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification at the time of renewal in a field comparable to one held on their Georgia educator certificate.

3.

Have at least one (1) year of successful educator experience, as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS, while working in another state on a valid certificate issued by that state, or while working outside of the United States on a valid Georgia certificate in a position in which it is utilized.

4.	For individuals certified in the service fields of Speech and Language Pathology, Audiology, School Psychology, School Counseling and School Social Work, meet optional requirements associated with GaPSC-accepted state or national credentials as outlined in the appropriate GaPSC field rules.

5.

Re-take and pass the content assessment approved by the GaPSC at the time of renewal for the field(s) being renewed. This is not an option to renew fields for which there is no GaPSC-approved content assessment at the time of renewal. Only the field(s) for which the educator passes the appropriate assessment will be renewed.

(4)

Criminal Record Check.

(a)

The employing Georgia LUA is responsible for ensuring that the appropriate criminal record check is completed during the school year in which the certificate expires pursuant to O.C.G.A. 20-2-211.1 and GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE. The employer may apply for renewal after the criminal record check or FBI background check has been completed. Criminal record checks are subject to the following:

1.	A criminal record check shall be required for renewal of all certificates held by educators employed in a Georgia LUA including state chartered special schools and commission charter schools. This requirement does not apply to employees of state agencies.

2.

If the individual has not had an FBI background check (fingerprint) while employed in the present public school system, the FBI background check (fingerprint) is required for renewal. If the individual has satisfactorily completed an FBI background check (fingerprint) at the present public school system of employment, then a Georgia criminal history check will satisfy the renewal requirement. The Georgia criminal history check will satisfy the renewal requirement for private school, chartered special school, and commission charter school employees that do not require certification.

3.	A satisfactory criminal record check shall be denoted by the issuance of a Clearance certificate upon the request of an employing Georgia LUA with the exception of private schools (see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.42 CLEARANCE CERTIFICATE).

(b)	If an individual is not employed in a Georgia public school, private school, chartered special school, or commission charter school at the time of renewal, the individual is exempt from the background check requirement until such time as Georgia public or private school employment is resumed.

(5)

Renewal Cycle.

(a)

Georgia certificates usually have a beginning date of July 1 and an ending date of June 30. Valid certificates may be renewed from December 1 of the calendar year preceding the ending validity date to June 30 of the calendar year in which the certificate expires.

1.

To renew an expired certificate, the individual must meet all applicable renewal requirements outlined above, including any remaining Special Georgia Requirements, and submit an application packet with appropriate documentation to the GaPSC. Specific renewal application procedures for educators may be found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

2.

At the request of an employing Georgia LUA, an individual who meets the applicable requirements outlined above but has not met applicable professional learning requirements may be issued a one (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate to allow the individual time to complete all remaining renewal requirements.

3.	Individuals who hold more than one certificate field and/or type will be eligible to renew all certificate fields/types by completion of the renewal requirements for the field of placement during the renewal period.

(6)

Renewal Application Process.

(a)

Renewal of certificates held by individuals employed by a Georgia LUA in a position requiring GaPSC certification must be submitted electronically by the employing LUA according to procedures established by the GaPSC. Information about the online procedures is available to authorized school system personnel on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.org.

(b)	Individuals not employed by a Georgia LUA in a position requiring GaPSC certification may apply for renewal according to procedures outlined on www.gapsc.com.

(7)

Restrictions.

(a)

An individual who has received any combination of two (2) Unsatisfactory, Ineffective or Needs Development annual performance evaluations during the previous five (5)-year validity cycle that have not been satisfactorily remediated by the employing Georgia LUA shall not be entitled to any certificate except for a Waiver in any field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.43 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION). Waiver certificates must be requested by an employing Georgia LUA and are issued at the discretion of the GaPSC (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.13 WAIVER CERTIFICATE).

(b)

Performance-Based Professional certificate requirements:

1.

To maintain the Performance-Based designation an individual must earn a minimum of three (3) Proficient or Exemplary annual performance ratings on the Teacher Assessment on Performance Standards (TAPS) component of the statewide evaluation system, Teacher Keys Effectiveness System (TKES), within five (5) years of the renewal date.

(i)

Performance-Based Professional certificates will be renewed as Standard Professional certificates if the educator has earned fewer than three (3) Proficient or Exemplary TAPS performance ratings within five (5) years of the renewal date, and has no more than one (1) unremediated unsatisfactory, needs development, or ineffective performance rating(s).

(c)	Advanced Professional and Lead Professional certificates may be renewed as Standard Professional certificates if the educator received one (1) annual performance rating below the Satisfactory or Proficient level during the most recent five (5) year validity period of the certificate.

(d)	Standard Professional certificates shall be renewed as Standard Professional should an educator not meet experience and/or other requirements for Performance-Based, Advanced, or Lead certification.

(8)

Renewal Credit Exemption.

(a)	For individuals whose most recent renewable certification and/or licenses expired between June 30, 2011, and June 30, 2017, renewal credit is not required for reinstatement. This does not apply to any outstanding Special Georgia Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS).

(9)

Retired Georgia Educators.

(a)

Retired Georgia Educators, as verified by the Teachers Retirement System (TRS) or other retirement systems utilized by private Georgia LUAs, who do not wish to meet the renewal requirements may apply for a Retired Educator Certificate as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUACATOR CERTIFICATE.

Rule 505-2-.37 [Repealed]

Rule 505-2-.38 Certificate Correction

(1)	Educator Responsibility. It is the responsibility of the individual educator to maintain an accurate, valid Georgia certificate.

(2)

Correction Procedures.

(a)

When a new certificate or correspondence is received by the educator, it should be examined carefully. Any questions should be addressed either with the employing local unit of administration (LUA) or the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). If an error is detected, the educator has forty-five (45) days to contact the GaPSC by submission of a letter of explanation. Appropriate corrective action will be taken by the GaPSC.

(b)

If the GaPSC discovers an error, it will take measures to make the necessary correction. A certificate issued in error to an ineligible applicant may be subject to recall (invalidation). Necessary corrections involving validity or certificate level dates will be retroactive to the date eligibility was established, but no earlier than the most recent July 1. Under certain conditions, as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.32 VALIDITY PERIODS AND DATING OF CERTIFICATES, the LUA superintendent or appropriate designee may request additional changes to the certificate level effective date.

Rule 505-2-.39 Certification Appeal

(1)

Summary. This rule creates a formalized system of tiered reviews that allows individuals to appeal certification decisions resulting from a staff analysis of application documentation. The decision at each tier is based solely on review of an individual's written appeal. There are two (2) tiers of appeal, which include:

(a)	Tier 1. A review by the Certification Appeals Committee with a written decision by the Chair of the Certification Appeals Committee of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).

(b)	Tier 2. A review and written decision by the Executive Secretary of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).

(2)

Appeal Procedures.

(a)	The individual must begin the appeal process at Tier 1 and a decision must be rendered before requesting a Tier 2 appeal. Individuals may not appeal the same issue after a final written tier 2 decision is determined.

(b)

The appeal must be in writing, sent by U.S. Mail, FedEx, UPS or another mail carrier.

1.	Appeals will not be received by phone, email, or delivered in person.

(c)

The written appeal must be sent to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, ATTN: Executive Secretary, and must contain the following information:

1.	Name (as listed in the individual's MyPSC account), certification identification number, mailing address, email address, and telephone number.

2.	The tier being requested (Tier 1 or Tier 2).

3.	A concise statement describing the nature of the appeal and why it should be granted.

4.	Supporting documentation that might constitute evidence that supports the appeal including transcripts, physician statements, etc.

(d)

The failure of an individual to request an appeal within sixty (60) calendar days is considered as a waiver of the right to appeal. Individuals are responsible for tracking the delivery of their appeal to the GaPSC.

1.	Tier I appeals must be received by the Executive Secretary of the GaPSC within sixty (60) calendar days of the date of the GaPSC notification letter or certificate issuance.

2.	Tier 2 appeals must be received by the Executive Secretary of the GaPSC within sixty (60) calendar days of the date of the GaPSC notification letter of denial of the Tier 1 appeal.

3.

Appeals must be received before the first day of the month in order to be reviewed during that month's meeting. If after initial review it is determined that additional information or documentation is needed, a subsequent review of the appeal will be completed during the next scheduled appeal meeting after the requested documentation is received.

(e)	When a Tier 1 or Tier 2 appeal is received, staff will send the appellant written verification of receipt by email and the scheduled date for review.

(f)	After a decision to grant or deny an appeal has been made, the appellant will receive correspondence posted to MyPSC detailing the decision.

(g)	The effective date of the certificate update based on an approved appeal will be the date the Certification Appeals Committee met and determined to honor the appeal request or the date the Executive Secretary reviewed and made a determination for the Tier 2 appeal.

Rule 505-2-.40 In-Field Assignment

(1)

Purpose. The assignment of educators to positions for which they have been prepared and certified (in-field) is essential for providing the best possible educational programs for the children and youth of Georgia. It is the responsibility of the local unit of administration (LUA) to assure that personnel assigned to certificated positions hold appropriate Georgia certification and are assigned only within the field (subject area) and grade level associated with the certificate held for each assignment during the school day.

(2)

Certification/Curriculum Assignment Polices (CAPS). All Georgia state-approved curriculum courses have been reviewed jointly by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) and the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) to determine the certificates which are considered in-field for each approved course. This information is available through the Certification/Curriculum Assignment Policies (CAPS) found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

(3)	Endorsements. Endorsements recognize additional expertise that supplements base certificates and enables the holder to be assigned in-field in these additional endorsement areas. Specific information on endorsements is found in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.14 ENDORSEMENTS.

(4)

Areas Not Requiring Specific Certificates. Several areas of assignment do not require a specific field in order to meet in-field requirements, although a certificate in some field is required. These fields include:

(a)

Computer Science - An optional Computer Science Endorsement (6-12) is available to provide strengthened and enhanced competency levels for teaching computer science skills in grades 6-12. However, at the discretion of the employing Georgia LUA, an educator with a professional, valid teaching certificate in any field is in-field to teach computer science in grades P-12. Note: This use of the term computer science relates to general computer labs, etc., but does not include the technology education courses associated with Career, Technical and Agricultural Education outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(b)

Hospital/Homebound - At the discretion of the employing LUA, an individual with a professional, valid teaching certificate in any field is in-field to teach hospital/homebound students in grades P-12. However, if a student is absent from school for twenty (20) consecutive days or more, a "highly qualified" teacher must be identified for the core academic subject(s) and must be available as the student's "teacher of record" for content instruction. The "highly qualified" teacher(s) must supervise content instruction through the use of a collaborative model.

(c)

In-School Suspension - Because in-school suspension is typically short term, the student's regularly assigned content teacher is considered the "teacher of record" and would be expected to supervise instruction through the use of a collaborative model. At the discretion of the employing Georgia LUA, a licensed Paraprofessional or an educator with a professional, valid certificate in any field is in-field to teach in-school suspension students in grades P-12.

(5)

Areas Not Requiring Any Certificate. For areas in which the GaPSC does not issue or require a specific certificate, LUAs may employ individuals without certification. Individuals who serve in positions of leadership over support functions in the local unit of administration must be appropriately certified. If a certificate is held in any field, the individual can be listed on the Georgia Department of Education Certified Personnel Information (CPI) Report.

(6)	Pre-Kindergarten Programs. Pre-kindergarten regular education programs are administered by Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (See http://decal.ga.gov/Prek/Teachers.aspx).

(7)

Discontinued Certificate Fields. Pre-existing certificate fields for permits and Career, Technical and Agricultural Education no longer issued by the GaPSC will continue to be valid and renewable. For certificate types discontinued on July 1, 2014, all requirements outlined at the time of issuance must be completed within the designated validity period. If all requirements are not completed by the expiration date, policies established by the current rules must be met. In-field educational services authorized by all certificates must meet guidelines established by current rules and the Certification/Curriculum Assignment Policies (CAPS) found on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.41 Privacy of Information

(1)	Background. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) is a federal law regarding an individual's right to privacy; the Buckley/Pell amendment (Privacy Act) sets extensive guidelines for the release and subsequent use of information from post-secondary education records.

(2)

Procedures.

(a)

Education records, once released by an institution, are the property of the student and may be released only for a specific purpose (i.e., employment or certification). The organization receiving the transcripts is responsible for protecting the document owner's privacy. The Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) will not, without the applicant's authorization, release any information not considered public record under federal and state law.

(b)	Information will not be released to the spouse, parent, sibling or children of an individual without specific authorization. Confidential information, such as test scores and grades on transcripts, will not be released.

(c)	The GaPSC, while maintaining microfilm and electronic copies of original transcripts, cannot copy or provide copies of transcripts to individuals or to other offices, agencies or institutions except in cases of criminal or GaPSC Ethics Division Investigation.

Rule 505-2-.42 Clearance Certificate

(1)

Summary. The Clearance certificate verifies that an individual employed in Georgia has successfully completed fingerprint and criminal background check requirements and has no convictions of any felony; any crime involving moral turpitude; any other criminal offense involving the manufacture, distribution, trafficking, sale or possession of a controlled substance or marijuana; or any sexual offense; and does not have a certificate or license that is currently revoked or suspended in Georgia or any other state. There are no academic requirements necessary to qualify for this certificate and it does not authorize the holder to be considered in-field for any position or allow experience earned while holding the certificate to be used toward certification. Employees of charter schools and charter systems must hold a Clearance certificate even if not required to hold any other certification. All holders of this certificate are subject to the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators (See GaPSC Rule 505-6-.01 THE CODE OF ETHICS FOR EDUCATORS).

(a)

Georgia statute requires all individuals employed on or after January 1, 2011, by a local unit of administration (LUA) in a position that would require certification without utilization of charter waivers to hold a valid Clearance certificate.

1.

The definition of 'educator' for this rule means teacher, school or school system administrator, or other education personnel who would, if not exempted pursuant to a charter, be required to hold an educator certificate, license or permit issued by the GaPSC and individuals who have applied for but have not yet received such certificate, license, or permit.

2.	The definition of Georgia 'local unit of administration (LUA)' for this rule has the same meaning as in Code Section 20-2-242 and also includes state chartered special schools and commission charter schools.

(2)

Requirements.

(a)

Issuance:

1.	Employed by a Georgia local unit of administration.

2.	Have satisfactorily completed fingerprint and criminal background check requirements, and have no open, pending or potential investigations with the GaPSC Ethics Division.

3.	Not hold a certificate or license that is currently revoked or suspended in Georgia or any other state.

4.	Complete the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment if GaPSC certification is exempted pursuant to a charter.

5.	Must be requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification and Application Procedures.

(b)

Renewal

1.	Employed by a Georgia local unit of administration.

2.	Verify completion of a Georgia (GCIC) criminal background check.

3.	Verify completion of professional learning requirements as outlined by the employing local unit of administration.

4.	Must be requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification and Application Procedures.

(3)

Classification.

(a)	The Clearance Certificate is not a professional educator certificate and is not part of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement.

(4)

Implementation.

(a)

As of January 1, 2011, educators holding a professional educator certificate who are already employed by a local unit of administration are not required to obtain a Clearance certificate until their professional certificate is renewed. To renew the professional certificate and add the Clearance certificate, the employing local unit of administration must conduct the required Georgia (GCIC) criminal background check. After the employing local unit of administration receives the criminal background results and the educator completes application procedures, the employer must submit the information electronically to the GaPSC and the certificate may be renewed and the Clearance certificate issued. No additional fingerprinting will be required for renewal of the Clearance certificate.

(b)	As of January 1, 2011, educators holding or eligible for positions, which would, if not exempted by charter, be required to hold certification, who are newly employed by a local unit of administration, are required to obtain a Clearance certificate meeting requirements in (2)(a) above.

(5)

Validity.

(a)

The Clearance certificate is valid for five (5) years.

1.	A Clearance certificate issued to an educator holding another unexpired certificate is only valid for the remaining validity period of the existing certificate.

2.	Should the Clearance certificate holder move to a different employing local unit of administration, it is not necessary to obtain a new Clearance certificate until expiration of the certificate. The new employing local unit of administration may still require fingerprinting for employment purposes.

(6)

Reporting Procedures.

(a)	Local units of administration must report the results of criminal background checks to the GaPSC through the appropriate procedures available to authorized personnel through www.gapsc.org.

(7)

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT).

(a)	Individuals holding a Clearance certificate do not meet certification in-field requirements.

Rule 505-2-.43 Annual Performance Evaluation

(1)

Purpose. Georgia Code 20-2-210 requires that all personnel employed by local units of administration (LUAs) shall have their performance reviewed annually. The purpose of this rule is to define the process for reporting "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective" and "Needs Development" annual performance evaluations for certificated personnel; the process for reporting successful completion of remediation plans; and the effect of two (2) or more unremediated "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective" or "Needs Development" annual performance evaluations in a five (5)-year period on certification eligibility, issuance and renewal.

(2)

Definitions.

(a)	Certificated personnel include all individuals holding any Renewable or Non-Renewable license or certificate issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC), including the Clearance certificate.

(b)	Unsatisfactory performance ratings include any annual summative performance rating of "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective," "Needs Development," or the equivalent.

(c)	Satisfactory performance ratings include any annual summative performance rating of "Satisfactory," "Proficient," "Exemplary," or the equivalent.

(3)

Requirements.

(a)

Each LUA shall report all unsatisfactory ratings of all annual performance evaluations.

1.	An educator who receives an unsatisfactory performance evaluation must be reported to the GaPSC by the employing LUA using the procedures established by the GaPSC and no later than June 30 of the academic year in which the annual performance evaluation was conducted.

2.

The employing LUA is responsible for establishing a remediation plan for an educator who receives an unsatisfactory annual performance evaluation. An evaluation component shall be part of the remediation plan and shall be used to assess performance during the time period since the evaluation. The remediation plan must also include a professional learning component.

(i)

An LUA that employs an educator who has received an unremediated unsatisfactory annual performance rating during the current validity period of his or her certificate is responsible for supervising the completion of that educator's remediation plan, even if the unsatisfactory rating was issued by a different employing LUA [see section (6) below]. If the educator successfully completes the remediation plan, as determined by the educator's supervisor, the performance evaluation is considered remediated. Remediation based on successful completion of a plan shall be reported to the GaPSC by the employing LUA using the established procedures and no later than June 30 of the academic year in which the remediation took place.

(ii)	It is the responsibility of the educator to complete the remediation plan to the satisfaction of his or her supervisor.

(iii)

An educator may also remediate an unsatisfactory annual performance rating without completing a remediation plan by receiving a satisfactory evaluation on a subsequent annual performance evaluation, subject to the following conditions:

(I)

The satisfactory performance rating must be earned while employed in a similar field to the one in which the unsatisfactory performance rating was earned. If the unsatisfactory rating was earned while working in a teaching field, a satisfactory rating earned while working in any teaching field within the same grade range (P-5, 4-8, or 6-12) is acceptable. If the unsatisfactory rating was earned while working in a leadership or service field, only a satisfactory rating earned while working in the same field is acceptable for remediation of the unsatisfactory rating;

(II)	A single annual satisfactory performance rating may be used to remediate only one (1) unsatisfactory annual performance rating; and

(III)

A remediation based on a subsequent satisfactory evaluation must be reported to the GaPSC by the employing LUA using the established procedures and no later than June 30 of the academic year in which the remediation took place.

(4)

Renewable Certificate Holders. An educator holding a Renewable license or certificate who has received two (2) or more unremediated unsatisfactory performance evaluations in the preceding five (5)-year certificate validity period will not be eligible for renewal.

(a)

At the request of an employing LUA, a Waiver license or certificate may be issued to an educator with two (2) unremediated unsatisfactory ratings in the preceding five (5)-year certificate validity period to allow for remediation of the performance deficiency. Upon successful remediation, the educator may apply for the Renewable license or certificate provided all other certification requirements are met. Upon issuance of the Renewable license or certificate, the validity period will be decreased by the length of time for which the Waiver license or certificate was held. An educator who has received three (3) or more unremediated unsatisfactory ratings in the preceding five (5)-year certificate validity period may not be issued any type of certificate, including a Waiver.

(b)

A Renewable license or certificate holder with one (1) unremediated unsatisfactory evaluation shall not be eligible for renewal until the performance evaluation has been remediated; or a "Satisfactory," "Proficient" or "Exemplary" evaluation has been earned on the current year's annual performance evaluation; or the employer attests that a second unsatisfactory performance evaluation was not earned in the renewal year; or the performance evaluation period has ended for the renewal year, and the LUA has attested that all unsatisfactory performance evaluations have been reported to the GaPSC for the renewal year.

(5)

Non-Renewable Certificate Holders. An educator holding a Non-Renewable license or certificate who has received two (2) or more unremediated unsatisfactory performance evaluations during the validity period of the certificate shall not be entitled to a Non-Renewable or Renewable license or certificate, with the following exception:

(a)

At the request of an employing LUA, a Waiver license or certificate may be issued to an educator with two (2) or more unremediated unsatisfactory ratings during the validity period of the Non-Renewable license or certificate to allow for remediation of the performance deficiency. Upon successful remediation and provided all other certification requirements are met, the educator may apply for Renewable certification. Upon issuance of the Renewable license or certificate, the validity period will be decreased by the length of time for which the Waiver license or certificate was held.

(6)

Remediation by a New Employing LUA. If an educator who has received one (1) or more unremediated unsatisfactory annual performance evaluations during the current validity period of his or her certificate is no longer employed by the reporting LUA, he or she may gain employment in another LUA willing to assist with the remediation process.

(a)	An educator may authorize the release of his or her individual performance data for remediation purposes.

(b)	At the request of an employing LUA, a Waiver license or certificate may be requested to allow for remediation of the performance deficiency.

(c)	The educator is responsible for disclosing their remediation plan to the new employer in order to pursue remediation of the unsatisfactory rating. The new employer may choose to revise the remediation plan.

(7)

Privacy. All local school systems and charter schools are required to report all unsatisfactory ratings of all annual performance evaluations to the Professional Standards Commission. The Commission is authorized to release such data provided it cannot be personally identified to any currently or formerly certificated individual.

(8)

Information Clearinghouse. The GaPSC shall maintain a central clearinghouse of information on Georgia educators receiving annual "Unsatisfactory," "Ineffective" or "Needs Development" performance evaluations and/or annual performance remediation. Each LUA is required to report this information to the GaPSC on or before June 30 of the academic year in which the evaluation or remediation occurred. The LUA superintendent or authorized official is responsible for ensuring that this information is provided in an accurate and timely manner, and shall attest to the completeness of reporting on or before June 30 of each academic year. If the information is not provided in an accurate and timely manner as established in this rule, the GaPSC reserves the right to report the superintendent or designee responsible for reporting performance to the Ethics Division.

(9)	Correction of Reporting Errors. Erroneously reported unsatisfactory annual performance evaluations and/or remediation will be removed upon request from the reporting LUA using the procedures established by the GaPSC.

Rule 505-2-.44 Retired Educator Certificate

(1)	Purpose. The Retired Educator certificate is a renewable certificate that allows retired Georgia educators to maintain certification for the purposes of substitute teaching or other educational activities for which GaPSC educator certification is not required but may be desirable.

(2)

Requirements. The Retired Educator certificate may be issued to an educator who meets the following requirements:

(a)	Has previously held a GaPSC renewable, professional educator certificate;

(b)

Is a retired Georgia educator as verified by:

1.	Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS);

2.	Comparable Georgia private school system; or

3.	Comparable public or private college or university retirement system; and

(c)	Does not hold any other valid Georgia educator certificate.

(3)

Validity.

(a)	An initial Retired Educator certificate is valid for thirty (30) years;

(b)	A renewed Retired Educator certificate is valid for ten (10) years (See section (4) below); and

(c)	A Retired Educator certificate is invalidated upon issuance of any other Georgia educator certificate.

(4)

Renewal.

(a)	An initial Retired Educator certificate may be renewed for subsequent ten (10)-year validity periods; and

(b)	Renewal of a Retired Educator certificate requires submission of application documents outlined on www.gapsc.com and the application fee (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.28 CERTIFICATION FEES), but does not require completion of professional learning or renewal credit.

(5)

In-Field Statement.

(a)	Retired Educator certificate holders shall be placed in the highest priority group on substitute teaching lists for Georgia local units of administration (LUAs), as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.20 SUBSTITUTE TEACHING.

(b)	Retired Educator certificate holders may not serve in any position requiring GaPSC educator certification. Retired educators who are hired in positions requiring certification must meet requirements to renew their expired professional certificates.

Rule 505-2-.45 Montessori Certificate

(1)

Summary: Montessori education has over 100 years of history and is practiced in more than 500 public schools across the United States. Both child-centered and highly structured, Montessori education has been shown to increase student achievement while reducing the impact of economic inequity. The Montessori certificate is part of a modified tiered teacher certification system that provides a statewide structure to recognize Montessori teachers, and ensure students in Montessori classrooms have access to fully-implemented Montessori education.

(2)

Definitions.

(a)

Montessori Accreditation Counsel for Teacher Education (MACTE) is the international standard setting and accrediting body for Montessori teacher education. The Montessori teacher education program, not the college, school, department, or other administrative unit of the institution, receives MACTE accreditation. MACTE is a member of the Association of Specialized and Professional Accreditors (ASPA) and is recognized by the United States Department of Education (ED).

(b)

Acceptable Montessori credentials:

1.	Professional certificate issued by another state, country or jurisdiction that has signed the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement.

2.	Montessori certificate or credential issued by a MACTE-accredited education program provider.

3.	Verification letter from a MACTE-accredited program documenting credential level, teacher education program, and date of completion.

4.

Letter of Equivalency is issued to an individual by a MACTE-accredited teacher education program and verified by MACTE, confirming after a review of the candidate's transcripts and records that the individual's Montessori teaching credential is equivalent to the credential offered by the MACTE-accredited program issuing the letter. A letter of equivalency may be submitted by a Montessori teacher whose credential was earned before the Montessori teacher education program was accredited.

(3)

Montessori Fields.

(a)	Infant Toddler (ages birth - 3)

(b)	Preschool- K (ages 2 1/2 - 6)

(c)	Elementary I Grades 1^st- 3^rd (ages 6 - 9)

(d)	Elementary I- II Grades 1^st - 6^th (ages 6 - 12)

(e)

Secondary I Grades 7^th - 9^th (ages 12 - 15)

1.	Secondary I Language Arts & Social Studies

2.	Secondary I Science & Mathematics

(f)

Secondary I - II Grades 7^th- 12^th (ages 12 - 18)

1.	Secondary II English

2.	Secondary II Social Studies

3.	Secondary II Science

4.	Secondary II Mathematics

(4)

Provisional Requirements (For Individuals Transitioning to a Career in Montessori Education).

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution.

2.	Pass the GaPSC Program Admission Assessment or meet exemption criteria outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.26 CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE ASSESSMENTS.

3.	Pass the GACE content assessment.

4.	Pass the Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment.

5.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

6.	Have the employing Georgia local unit of administration request the certificate according to procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

7.

The Provisional certificate is valid for three (3) years with the following exceptions:

(i)

Provisional certificates will be issued for one (1) year pending verification of enrollment into a MACTE-accredited Montessori teacher preparation program leading to certification in the Provisional certification field held by the individual. Once enrolled in a MACTE-accredited program, the certificate may be extended for two additional years if requested by the employing local unit of administration (LUA) and following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(I)

Individuals who are not enrolled in a MACTE-accredited Montessori teacher preparation program after the initial one-year validity period may be issued a certificate for an additional year upon the request of the employing local unit of administration (LUA). In order to qualify for the remaining year of eligibility, an individual must be enrolled in an approved program. Once enrolled in a MACTE-accredited program, the certificate may be extended for a third year if requested by the employing local unit of administration and following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES. Should an individual not be enrolled by the third year, a waiver certificate must be requested by the employing local unit of administration (LUA).

(b)

Conversion.

1.	Complete a MACTE-accredited Montessori teacher preparation program in the field of issuance;

2.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(ii)	Have passed the Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment.

(iii)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

3.

Earn three years of successful experience while holding the Provisional certificate.

(i)	If less than three years of experience is earned at the time all other conversion requirements are met, the individual may convert to the Five (5)-Year Induction certificate.

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(5)

Induction Requirements.

(a)

Five (5)-Year Induction (For Individuals Lacking Experience to Qualify for Professional).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution.

(ii)	Complete a MACTE-accredited program and submit verification of the credential or letter of equivalency from the preparation program.

(iii)

Pass or exempt the GACE content assessment.

(iv)	Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(v)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(I)	Individuals applying by reciprocity may be issued the certificate and must complete the requirement in order to convert the certificate.

(vi)	Have less than three (3) years of successful experience as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS.

(vii)

Apply following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)

Earn three (3) years of successful experience while holding the Induction certificate, as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(I)

For individuals applying based on reciprocity, meet the following requirements:

A.	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

B.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(ii)	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Three (3)-Year Induction (Teaching Out-of-Field):

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold a valid Five (5)-Year traditional or Montessori Induction certificate in any teaching field at the bachelor's level or higher.

(ii)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Complete a MACTE-accredited program and submit verification of the credential or letter of equivalency from the preparation program.

(ii)	Pass the GACE content assessment.

(iii)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iv)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(v)	Apply following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(c)

One (1)-Year Induction (Issued to Individuals Who Have Met All Requirements For the Five (5)-Year Induction Certificate but Have Not Passed the Content Exam).

1.

Issuance.

(i)

Issued to individuals meeting all requirements for the Five (5)-Year Induction certificate with the exception of the GACE content assessment.

(I)	Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(II)	Must be requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification and Application Procedures.

2.

Conversion

(i)	Pass or exempt the required GACE content assessment.

(ii)	Apply following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification and Application Procedures.

(d)	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based Montessori certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(e)	The Induction Montessori certificate is not issued for service fields (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-.140 -.149 ) or leadership fields (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.153 EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP).

(6)

Professional Requirements (For Individuals with Three or More Years of Educator Experience).

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution.

2.	Complete a MACTE-accredited program and submit verification of the credential or letter of equivalency from the preparation program.

3.	Pass or exempt the required GACE content assessment.

4.

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(i)	Individuals applying by reciprocity may be issued the certificate and must complete the requirement in order to convert the certificate.

5.	Have a minimum of three (3) years of successful experience as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS.

6.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

7.	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Renewal.

1.	Meet requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS.

2.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

3.	For individuals who received certification based on reciprocity must satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

4.	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(c)	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based Montessori certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(7)

Non-Renewable Requirements.

(a)

One (1)-Year Non-Renewable Professional Montessori Certificate may be issued at the request of a Georgia local unit of administration to an individual who holds an expired Georgia Professional Montessori certificate but has not met standard renewal requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS.

(b)	One (1)-Year Non-Renewable Professional Montessori Certificate may be issued request of a Georgia local unit of administration to an individual who meets requirements for the Professional certificate but have not passed the content exam.

(c)

Three (3)-year Non-Renewable Professional Issued to individuals who hold a valid professional (non-Montessori) certificate and are assigned to teach out-of-field.

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold a valid Five (5)-Year Professional certificate.

(ii)	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 Certification Application Procedures.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Complete a MACTE-accredited program and submit verification of the credential or letter of equivalency from the preparation program.

(ii)	Attain a passing score on the GACE content assessment.

(iii)

Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iv)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(v)	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(8)

To Add the Field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD).

(a)

To add a Montessori teaching certificate to a Professional certificate, an individual must meet the following:

1.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC accepted accredited institution.

2.	Complete a MACTE-accredited program and submit verification of the credential or letter of equivalency from the preparation program.

3.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

4.	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

5.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

6.	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(9)

Implementation.

(a)	Individuals currently employed in a public Montessori classroom must hold a valid Montessori certificate by July 1, 2021.

(b)

A legacy period is provided to protect individuals currently employed in Georgia public Montessori classrooms prior to the initial effective date of the rule. In order to qualify for Montessori certification under this legacy provision, individuals must meet the following conditions prior to July 1, 2018:

1.	Employed in a public Montessori classroom while holding an acceptable GaPSC certificate.

2.	Earned one or more years of satisfactory Montessori teaching experience in a Georgia public school, as outlined in GaPSC RULE 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS.

3.	Completed a Montessori diploma program outlined by the employing school system and submit verification from the employing school system at the time of application.

(c)	Legacy Montessori teachers will not be required to complete a MACTE-accredited program but must meet all other eligibility requirements.

(d)

Qualifying individuals currently employed in a private Montessori classroom are eligible for the Montessori certificate. Experience earned to convert from an Induction Montessori to the Professional Montessori certificate must be earned from a school holding acceptable GaPSC-accreditation as outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.25 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS.

(10)

Additional Certificate Titles Issued in the Field.

(a)	International Exchange Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.11 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE).

(b)	Retired Educator (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUCATOR).

(11)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE).

(12)

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT). An individual holding the Montessori certificate is in-field to teach in the field and age group of issuance in a Montessori classroom. Holding the Montessori certificate is not in-field to teach in a traditional (non-Montessori) classroom.

Rule 505-2-.46 Military Support Certificate

(1)	Summary: The Military Support certificate identifies and supports transitioning military veterans and their spouses, allowing completion of certification requirements on a modified timeline. Once requirements are met, the appropriate certification will be issued to the individual.

(2)

Definitions.

(a)	The term veteran(s) is used to describe active, retired, and transitioning service members.

(b)	A Military spouse is an individual married to an active or transitioning service member.

(3)

Induction Requirements (See Rule 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE).

(a)	Military Support Induction certificates are not issued. Military members and military spouses must meet the requirements for issuance of an Induction certificate as outlined in the Induction Certificate rule.

(4)

Provisional Certificate Requirements (See Rule 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE). Individuals submitting documentation of meeting the veteran and military family member definition or those enrolled in the Troops to Teachers program have a modified timeline for completion of requirements:

(a)

Initial Issuance.

1.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution, unless Georgia does not require a bachelor's degree for the specific field. Minimum degree requirements are defined in the applicable teaching or service rule.

2.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

3.	Individuals seeking certification in Career and Technical Specializations must meet eligibility criteria outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

4.	Individuals seeking certification in Healthcare Science must meet eligibility criteria outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE.

(b)

Year Two Issuance.

1.

Attain a passing score on the GACE content assessment. If no GACE or other GaPSC-approved content assessment is available for the certification field requested, the individual is exempt from this requirement.

(i)

For Special Education certificates, the pre-requisite requirement is the special education academic content concentration(s), which must be verified through an academic degree major or the appropriate GACE content assessment(s). The appropriate Special Education GACE content assessment must then be passed before conversion to a Professional certificate.

2.	Verify enrollment in a GaPSC-approved or GaPSC-accepted educator preparation program leading to certification in the Provisional field held by the educator.

(c)

Year Three Issuance.

1.	Attain a passing score on the GaPSC Program Admission assessment or meet exemption criteria outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.26 CERTIFICATION & LICENSURE ASSESSMENTS.

(d)

Completion Requirements.

1.	Verify completion of a GaPSC-approved or GaPSC-accepted, state-approved educator preparation program in the field.

2.	Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics assessment.

3.	Complete any outstanding industry testing/licensure requirements for Career and Technical Specializations or Healthcare Science as outlined in the appropriate rules.

(5)

Professional Requirements (See Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)	The Standard Professional Military Support certificate is issued to individuals meeting the requirements outlined in (13)(b) below.

(6)

Non-Renewable Requirements (See Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

The Non-Renewable Professional Military Support certificate is not issued. Military members and military spouses may be issued a Non-Renewable Professional certificate at the request of an employing LUA to individuals meeting the eligibility criteria outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(7)

Implementation.

(a)	Teachers currently enrolled in the Troops to Teachers program and employed by a Georgia LUA must be issued a Military Support Induction certificate beginning October 15, 2018.

(8)

Certificate Upgrade.

(a)

Individuals holding Military Support certificates are eligible to upgrade their certificate with the exception of the Provisional certificate by meeting the requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE. Individuals holding a Provisional certificate are not eligible to upgrade to a higher certificate level until conversion to the Induction or professional certificate and meeting requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE. Initial issuance of the Induction certificate level will be determined as outlined GaPSC 505-2-.02 CLASSIFICATION.

(9)

Conversion.

(a)	Individuals holding the Military Support certificate may apply to convert the certificate to the professional certificate upon meeting all certification requirements.

(10)

Validity.

(a)	The Military Support Provisional certificate is issued with one (1)-year validity periods for completion of requirements.

(b)	The Military Support Professional certificate is valid for five (5) years.

(11)

Renewal.

(a)	The Military Support certificate is non-renewable.

(12)

Assessments.

(a)	The assessments required for the Military Support certification fields are outlined in Rule 505-2-.26 CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE ASSESSMENTS.

(13)

Call to Active Duty.

(a)

Any Georgia educator who holds a Military Support, Provisional, Induction, Non-Renewable Professional, Permit, or Waiver and is called to active duty while that certificate is valid shall have that previous certificate re-issued with new, full validity dates under the following conditions:

1.	The educator was employed by a local unit of administration (LUA) when called to active duty.

2.	The educator is employed by a Georgia LUA within the same year or the year following active military duty.

3.	The certificate is requested by a Georgia LUA.

(b)

Any Georgia educator who holds a renewable professional certificate and is called to active military duty while that certificate is valid shall have that previous certificate renewed for the full five (5)-year validity, even if renewal requirements have not otherwise been met, under the following conditions:

1.	The educator was employed by a Georgia LUA when called to active duty.

2.	The educator or an employing Georgia LUA applies for the renewal. The application packet must include a copy of the military orders showing start and end dates of the active duty period.

3.

If the certificate expired during the period of active duty, the new validity date shall be the first day of the month following the end of active duty, provided receipt of the renewal application and the end of active duty are within the same fiscal year (July 1 - June 30). If the renewal application is received after the end of the fiscal year in which active military duty ended, the renewed certificate will have a beginning validity date of July 1 of the fiscal year in which the application was received. If the certificate did not expire during the period of active duty, the new validity date shall be July 1 following the expiration date.

(14)

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT).

(a)

An individual holding the Military Support certificate is in-field to serve in positions as indicated by the certificate or license type and teach specified Georgia curriculum courses aligned to the field of certification. Each state-approved curriculum course, with specified certificate fields that are designated as in-field, may be found under Certification/Curriculum Assignment Policies (CAPs) on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.47 Reserved

Rule 505-2-.48 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.49 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.50 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.51 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.52 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.53 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.54 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.55 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.56 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.57 Teaching Fields

(1)	Summary: This rule lists the certification teaching fields offered in the state of Georgia to qualified individuals and outlines how to locate requirements and procedures to qualify for certification.

(2)

Areas of Specialization. The following teaching fields are offered:

(a)

Early Grades Education (B-5).

1.	Birth Through Kindergarten (B-K)

2.	Elementary Education (Grades P-5)

(b)

Middle Grades Education (Grades 4-8).

1.	Middle Grades Language Arts

2.	Middles Grades Math

3.	Middle Grades Reading

4.	Middle Grades Science

5.	Middle Grades Social Science

(c)

Secondary Education (Grades 6-12).

1.	Behavioral Science

2.

Biology

3.

Chemistry

4.	Earth/Space Science

Economics

English

Geography

History

9.	Mathematics

10.

Physics

11.	Political Science

12.

Science

13.

Speech

(d)

Career, Technical and Agriculture Education.

1.	Agriculture (Grades 6-12)

2.	Business (Grades 6-12)

3.	Career and Technical Specializations (Grades 6-12)

4.	Computer Science (Grades P-12)

5.	Engineering and Technology (Grades P-12)

6.	Family and Consumer Sciences (Grades 6-12)

7.	Healthcare Science (Grades 6-12)

8.	Marketing (Grades 6-12)

(e)

Foreign Languages (Grades P-12).

1.	American Sign Language

2.

Arabic

3.	Chinese (Mandarin)

4.

Farsi

5.

French

6.

German

7.	Greek (Classical)

Hebrew

Hindi

Italian

Japanese

Korean

Latin

14.	Portuguese

Russian

Spanish

Swahili

Turkish

Urdu

Montessori Fields.

1.	Infant Toddler (Birth - 3)

2.	PK2 - K (Ages 2 ½ - 6)

3.	Elementary I Grades 1^st - 3^rd (Ages 6-9)

4.	Elementary I-II Grades 1^st - 6^th (Ages 6-12)

5.

Secondary I Grades 7^th - 9^th (Ages 12-15)

(i)	Secondary I Language Arts & Social Studies

(ii)	Secondary I Science & Mathematics

6.

Secondary I-II Grades 7^th - 12^th (Ages 12-18)

(i)	Secondary II English

(ii)	Secondary II Mathematics

(iii)

Secondary II Science

(iv)	Secondary II Social Science

P-12 Fields.

Art

Dance

Drama

4.	English to Speakers of Other Languages

5.

Gifted

6.

Health

7.	Health and Physical Education

8.

Music

9.

Reading

(h)

Special Education.

1.	Academic Content Concentrations (Cognitive Levels P-5, 4-8, and 6-12)

2.	Behavior Disorders (Grades P-12)

3.	Deaf Education (Grades P-12)

4.	Physical and Health Disabilities (Grades P-12)

5.	Special Education Adapted Curriculum (Grades P-12)

6.	Special Education General Curriculum (Grades P-12)

7.	Special Education General Curriculum/Elementary Education (Grades P-5)

8.	Learning Disabilities (Grades P-12)

9.	Special Education Preschool (Ages 3-5)

10.	Visual Impairment (Grades P-12)

(3)

Teaching Endorsements (See GaPSC Rules 505-2-159 to 505-2-.191 ).

(a)

The following teaching field endorsements are offered and may be used for placement in the field of instruction:

1.	Agriculture Education (Grades P-5)

2.	Birth through Five (B-5)

3.	Career Technical Instruction (Grades 6-12)

4.	Career Exploration (Grades 6-12)

5.	Computer Science (Grades P-12)

6.	Coordinated Career Academic Education (Grades 6-12)

7.	Culinary Arts (Grades 6-12)

8.	Dramatic Writing Micro-Endorsement (In-Field)

9.	Dual Immersion Elementary Education (Grades P-5)

10.	English to Speakers of Other Languages (In-Field)

11.	Gifted In-Field (In-Field)

12.	Reading (In-Field)

13.	Safety and Driver Education (Grades 6-12)

14.	Special Education Deaf Education (Grades P-12)

15.	Special Education Physical and Health Disabilities (P-12)

16.	Special Education Preschool (Ages 3-5)

17.	Special Education Visual Impairment (Grades P-12)

18.	Teacher Support and Coaching (In-Field)

19.	Work-Based Learning (Grades 6-12)

(b)

The following teaching field endorsements are offered for enhanced competency and not required for placement in the field:

1.

Dyslexia

2.

Coaching

3.	Intervention Specialist

4.	K-5 Mathematics

5.	K-5 Science

6.	Multi-Tiered System of Supports Facilitator

7.	Online Teaching

8.	Personalized Learning

9.	Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports

10.	Special Education Autism

11.	Special Education Transition Specialist

12.	STEM Education

13.	Teacher Leader

14.	Urban Education

(4)

Provisional Certificate (See GaPSC 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)	For Career and Technical Specialization fields see GaPSC 505-2-. 90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(b)	For the field of Healthcare Science see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE.

(c)	For Montessori fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.45 MONTESSORI CERTIFICATE.

(5)

Induction Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE).

(a)	For Career and Technical Specialization fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-. 90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(b)	For the field of Healthcare Science see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE.

(c)	For Montessori fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.45 MONTESSORI CERTIFICATE.

(6)

Professional Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)	For Career and Technical Specialization fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-. 90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(b)	For the field of Healthcare Science see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE.

(c)	For Montessori fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.45 MONTESSORI CERTIFICATE.

(7)

Non-Renewable Professional Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)	For Career and Technical Specialization fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-. 90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(b)	For the field of Healthcare Science see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE.

(c)	For Montessori fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.45 MONTESSORI CERTIFICATE.

(8)

To Add a Field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD).

(a)	For Career and Technical Specialization fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-. 90 CAREER AND TECHNICAL SPECIALIZATIONS.

(b)	For the field of Healthcare Science see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.87 HEALTHCARE SCIENCE.

(c)	For Montessori fields see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.45 MONTESSORI CERTIFICATE.

(9)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE).

(10)	Renewal Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

(11)

Additional Certificate Titles Issued for Teaching Fields.

(a)	Adjunct License see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.15 ADJUNCT LICENSE.

(b)	International Exchange Certificate see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.11 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE.

(c)	Life Certificate see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.12 LIFE CERTIFICATE.

(d)	Military Support Certificate see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.46 MILITARY SUPPORT CERTIFICATE.

(e)	Montessori Certificate see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.45 MONTESSORI CERTIFICATE.

(f)	Permit see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.10 PERMIT CERTIFICATE.

(g)	Pre-Service Teaching Certificate see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.03 PRE-SERVICE TEACHING CERTIFICATE.

(h)	Retired Educator Certificate see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE.

(i)	Waiver Certificate see GaPSC Rule 505-2-.13 WAIVER CERTIFICATE.

(12)

Exceptions.

(a)	In some cases, obsolete fields may continue to be renewed if previously held by an educator.

(13)

In-Field Statement. Individuals certified in teaching fields are in-field to teach specified Georgia curriculum courses in the grade levels identified by the teaching field. You may view individual in-field statements here. Each state-approved curriculum course, with specified certificate fields that are designated as in-field, may be found under Certification/Curriculum Assignment Policies (CAPs) on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.58 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.59 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.60 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.61 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.62 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.63 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.64 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.65 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.66 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.67 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.68 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.69 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.70 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.71 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.72 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.73 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.74 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.75 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.76 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.77 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.78 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.79 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.80 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.81 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.82 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.83 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.84 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.85 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.86 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.87 Healthcare Science

(1)	Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for issuance of a teaching certificate in Healthcare Science P-12, which allows individuals certified in this field to provide students the opportunity to explore careers in healthcare.

(2)

Provisional Requirements (For Individuals Transitioning to a Career in Education).

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Hold an associate's degree or higher from a GaPSC accepted accredited institution in a healthcare-related field.

2.	Hold a valid healthcare professional license, registration, or certification that relates to the healthcare field and has been issued by an appropriate governing or regulatory body, which may be found here.

3.	Have a minimum of two (2) years of occupational work experience in the healthcare field.

4.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

5.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

6.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

The Provisional certificate will be issued for one (1)-year pending verification of enrollment in a GaPSC-accepted educator preparation program leading to certification in the certification field held by the individual. Once enrolled in a GaPSC-approved or GaPSC-accepted program, the certificate will be extended for two additional years (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(c)

Conversion.

1.	Complete a GaPSC-accepted program in the field of issuance.

2.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iii)

Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(iv)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

3.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(d)	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(3)

Induction Requirements.

(a)

Five (5)-Year Induction (For Individuals Lacking Teaching Experience to Qualify for Professional Certification).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold an associate's degree or higher from a GaPSC accepted accredited institution in a healthcare-related field.

(ii)

Verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the field, hold a valid or expired professional certificate in the field from another state, or verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the field from another country.

(I)	For individuals who completed a GaPSC-approved program in the field, pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment is required.

(iii)

Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(iv)	Have less than three (3) years of successful experience while holding a professional certificate.

(v)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(vi)	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Earn three years of successful experience while holding a professional certificate;

(ii)

For individuals applying based on reciprocity or completion of a GaPSC-accepted program from another state or country, meet the following requirement.

(I)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iii)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iv)	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE

(b)

Three (3)-Year Induction (Teaching Out-of-Field).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold a valid five (5) year Induction certificate in any teaching field.

(ii)	Have a minimum of two (2) years of occupational work experience in the healthcare field.

(iii)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iv)	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Hold a valid healthcare professional license, registration, or certification that relates to the healthcare field and has been issued by an appropriate governing or regulatory body, which may be found here.

(ii)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(c)	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(4)

Professional Requirements (For individuals with Three or More Years of Educator Experience).

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Hold an associate's degree or higher in a healthcare-related field.

2.

Verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the field, hold a valid or expired professional certificate in the field from another state; or verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the field from another country.

(I)	For individuals who completed a GaPSC-approved program in the field, pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment is required.

3.	Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

4.	Have a minimum of three (3) years of successful experience while holding a professional certificate.

5.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

6.	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Renewal.

1.	Meet requirements outlined in the Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS.

2.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

3.	Individuals applying based on reciprocity or completion of a program out-of-state or out-of-country must satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better as part of renewal requirements.

(c)	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(5)

Non-Renewable Professional Requirements.

(a)

One (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional (Issued to Individuals Who Have Not Completed Renewal Requirements).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold an expired professional Georgia certificate in the field.

(ii)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Verify completion of requirements outlined in Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS.

(ii)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(b)

Three (3)-year Non-Renewable Professional. (Teaching Out-of-Field)

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold a valid Five (5)-Year professional certificate.

(ii)	Have a minimum of two (2) years of occupational work experience in the healthcare field.

(iii)

Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iv)	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Hold a valid healthcare professional license, registration, or certification that relates to the healthcare field and has been issued by an appropriate governing or regulatory body, which may be found here.

(ii)	Meet Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(6)	Permit (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.10 PERMIT).

(7)

To Add the Field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD).

(a)

To add Healthcare Science to a Professional teaching certificate, an individual must meet the following:

1.	Hold a valid healthcare professional license, registration, or certification that relates to the healthcare field and has been issued by an appropriate governing or regulatory body, which may be found here.

2.	Have a minimum of two (2) years of occupational work experience in the healthcare field.

3.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

4.	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

To add Healthcare Science to a Service or Leadership certificate when a (5)-year Induction or Professional teaching field has not been established, an individual must:

1.	Hold an associate's degree or higher from a GaPSC accepted accredited institution in a healthcare-related field.

2.	Complete a GaPSC-accepted program in the field of issuance.

3.	Hold a valid healthcare professional license, registration, or certification that relates to the healthcare field and has been issued by an appropriate governing or regulatory body, which may be found here.

4.	Have a minimum of two (2) years of occupational work experience in the healthcare field.

5.	Complete the Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment.

6.	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

7.	Meet Standards of Conduct.

8.	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(8)

Additional Certificate Titles Issued in the Field.

(a)	International Exchange Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.11 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE).

(b)	Retired Educator. (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUCATOR).

(9)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE).

(10)	Renewal Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

(11)

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT). Educators certified in Healthcare Science are in-field to teach specified Georgia curriculum courses in grades P-12. Each state-approved curriculum course, with specified certificate fields that are designated as in-field, may be found under Certification/Curriculum Assignment Policies (CAPS) on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.88 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.89 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.90 Career and Technical Specializations

(1)

Summary: Career and Technical Specializations are one part of the larger area of education curriculum known as Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE). Career and Technical Specializations certification is based on a combination of occupational experience, industry licensing and assessments, and formal study. Upon the receipt of a Provisional certificate, the individual must affiliate with and complete a GaPSC-approved program offered as New Teacher Institute (NTI) or Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy (GATAPP) program in order to convert to the Induction or Professional certificate.

(2)

Areas of Specialization. The following Career and Technical Specializations are offered:

a.	Architectural Drawing and Design

b.	Audio/Video Technology& Film

c.	Automotive Service Technology

d.

Aviation

e.

Barbering

f.	Collision Repair

g.	Computer Animation

h.	Construction

i.	Cosmetology

j.	Culinary Arts

k.	Distribution & Logistics

l.	Electronics Technology

m.

Esthetics

n.	Government and Public Administration

o.	Granite Technology

p.	Graphic Communications & Design

q.	Information Technology

r.	Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security

s.	Manufacturing and Engineering Sciences

t.	Marine Service Technology

u.

Nails

v.	Precision Machine Technology

w.	Sheet Metal

x.	Welding Technology

(3)

Provisional Requirements (For Individuals Transitioning to a Career in Education).

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Pass the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

2.

Have at least two (2) years of occupational work experience in the area of specialization.

(i)	The fields of Aviation-Flight Operations, Computer Animation and Electronics Technology have options that do not require occupational work experience. Please refer to the chart of licensure options HERE.

3.

Satisfy minimum degree requirements and industry testing and/or licensure, which may be found HERE.

(i)

With the exception of the specializations in (I) below, individuals meeting all other requirements except industry testing and/or licensure may be issued a Provisional certificate. For those who do not meet the licensure requirement, it must be satisfied prior to conversion of the Provisional Certificate.

(I)	The following fields require industry licensure for issuance of the initial Provisional Certificate: Barbering, Esthetics, Cosmetology, and Nails.

4.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

The Provisional certificate will be issued for one (1) year pending verification of enrollment in a GaPSC-accepted educator preparation program leading to certification in the area of specialization held by the educator. Once enrolled in a GaPSC-accepted program, the certificate will be extended for two additional years (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(c)

Conversion.

1.	Complete a GaPSC-accepted program in the area of specialization of issuance.

2.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment.

(ii)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iii)

Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

3.

Hold an associate's degree or higher.

(i)	If all requirements in (3)(c) above have been completed with the exception of the associate's degree, the local unit of administration may request a second Provisional certificate.

4.	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(d)	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(4)

Induction Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.04 INDUCTION CERTIFICATE).

(a)

Five (5)-year Induction (For Individuals Lacking Teaching Experience to Qualify for Professional Certification).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold the appropriate degree level from a GaPSC accepted accredited institution in the area of specialization, which may be found HERE.

(ii)

Verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the area of specialization, hold a valid or expired professional certificate in the field from another state; or verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the field from another country.

(I)	For individuals who completed a GaPSC-approved program in the field, pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment is required.

(iii)

Have passed the GACE Educator Ethics Assessment.

(iv)	Have less than three (3) years of successful teaching experience while holding a professional certificate.

(v)	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Earn three years of successful experience.

(ii)

For individuals applying based on reciprocity or completion of a GaPSC-accepted program from another state or country, satisfy the following requirement:

(I)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better.

(iii)

Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(b)

Three (3)-Year Induction (Teaching Out-of-Field).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold a valid Five (5)-Year Induction certificate in any teaching field.

(ii)	Hold the appropriate degree level from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution in the area of specialization, which may be found HERE.

(iii)

Have at least (2) years of occupational work experience in the field.

(iv)	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Satisfy an industry testing and/or hold licensure in the field, which may be found HERE;

(ii)	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(5)

Professional Requirements.

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Hold the appropriate degree level from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution in the area of specialization, which may be found HERE.

2.

Verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the area of specialization, hold a valid or expired professional certificate in the field from another state; or verify completion of a GaPSC-accepted program in the field from another country.

(i)	Have a minimum of three (3) years of successful experience while holding a Professional certificate.

3.	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

Renewal.

1.	Verify completion of requirements outlined in the renewal rule (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

2.	Individuals applying based on reciprocity or completion of a program out-of-state or out-of-country must satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better as part of renewal requirements.

(c)	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(6)

Non-Renewable Professional Requirements.

(a)

One-year Non-Renewable Professional (Issued to individuals who have not completed renewal requirements).

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold an expired professional Georgia certificate in the field.

(ii)	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Verify completion requirements outlined in the renewal rule. (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS)

(ii)	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(b)

Three (3)-year Non-Renewable Professional.

1.

Issuance.

(i)	Hold a valid Five (5)-Year Professional certificate.

(ii)	Meet the minimum education level required for the area of specialization, which may be found HERE.

(iii)

Have at least (2) years of occupational work experience in the area of specialization or the GaPSC-determined equivalent.

(iv)	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

2.

Conversion.

(i)	Satisfy an industry testing and/or hold licensure in the field, which may be found HERE.

(ii)	Apply for conversion following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

3.	The Standard Professional certificate or Performance-Based certificate will be issued based on meeting experience requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE.

(7)	Permit (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.10 PERMIT).

(8)

To Add the Field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD).

(a)

To add a Career and Technical Specialization to a renewable professional teaching certificate, the applicant must meet the minimum education level required for the area of specialization (which may be found HERE), hold the industry testing and licensure required for the area of specialization outlined in section (3)(a) above, and have at least two (2) years of occupational work experience in the area of specialization or the GaPSC-determined equivalent.

(9)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE).

(10)	Renewal Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

(11)

In-Field Statement. Individuals certified in Career and Technical Specializations are in-field to teach specified Georgia curriculum courses in grades 6-12. Each state-approved curriculum course, with specified certificate fields that are designated as in-field, may be found under Certification/Curriculum Assignment Policies (CAPs) on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

Rule 505-2-.91 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.92 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.93 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.94 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.95 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.96 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.97 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.98 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.99 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.100 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.101 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.102 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.103 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.104 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.105 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.106 Academic Content Concentrations

(1)

Purpose. To serve as a teacher of record in one of five (5) academic content concentrations, Special Education teachers must have the appropriate academic content concentrations designated on their Special Education Certificate. These content concentrations are:

(a)	Special Education Language Arts;

(b)	Special Education Mathematics;

(c)	Special Education Reading;

(d)	Special Education Science; and

(e)	Special Education Social Science.

(2)

Cognitive Levels. Each of the academic content concentrations shall be further designated at a specific cognitive level. The cognitive level appropriate for the educator's certificate is based on information contained in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). The cognitive levels are:

(a)

P-5;

(b)

4-8; and

(c)

6-12.

(3)	Academic Content Concentrations. Special Education academic content concentrations with designated cognitive levels shall be listed on the Georgia educator certificate one time only, but shall apply to all appropriate Special Education fields that are also designated on the certificate.

(4)	Approved Program Recommendation. GaPSC-approved program completers in designated Special Education fields will be recommended for the certificate with at least one academic content concentration at a designated cognitive level of 4-8.

(5)

To Add Content Concentrations.

(a)

To add an academic content concentration and cognitive level to an existing Special Education certificate, educators may do one of the following:

1.	Be recommended for the concentration by an GaPSC-approved program provider; or

2.	Pass the appropriate content assessment(s) in the content concentration. The appropriate assessments and corresponding cognitive levels are identified on the GaPSC web site at www.gapsc.com.

(b)

For educators who satisfied appropriate content assessment(s) prior to the implementation of this rule, passing scores (regardless of the date the test was taken) will be applied to Special Education academic content concentrations with an effective date on which the content assessment(s) were satisfied or the beginning of the fiscal year, whichever is more recent. For assessment(s) completed after the rule is in effect, the content concentration effective date will be the date on which the assessment requirements were satisfied.

(6)

In-Field Statement. Special Education teachers serving in a consultative role must have the appropriate base Special Education certificate issued as Consultative. To be in-field as a teacher of record for an academic content field, the educator's certificate must include the appropriate Special Education field and the appropriate Special Education academic content concentration issued at the appropriate cognitive level. The cognitive level appropriate for the educator's certificate is based on information contained in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Rule 505-2-.107 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.108 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.109 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.110 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.111 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.112 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.113 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.114 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.115 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.116 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.117 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.118 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.119 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.120 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.121 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.122 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.123 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.124 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.125 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.126 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.127 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.128 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.129 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.130 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.131 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.132 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.133 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.134 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.135 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.136 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.137 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.138 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.139 Repealed and Reserved

Rule 505-2-.140 Audiology

(1)	Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for issuance of the service certificate in Audiology P-12, which allows individuals certified in this field to identify and treat hearing, balance, tinnitus, and other auditory disorders in students to promote student achievement.

(2)

Professional Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

Issuance.

1.

An individual is eligible for a Standard Professional certificate in the field of Audiology based on meeting one of the following requirements:

(i)	Completion of an American Speech, Language and Hearing Association (ASHA)-approved master's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution in Audiology;

(ii)	Completion of a state-approved certification preparation program in Audiology at the master's degree level - level five (5) - or higher;

(iii)

Submission of a valid State of Georgia Audiologist license issued by the Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Office of the Secretary of State, O.C.G.A. Title 43; or

(iv)	Submission of a valid Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology from the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).

2.	Meet Standards of Conduct; and

3.	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(3)

Non-Renewable Professional Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

A One (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate in the field of Audiology may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) to an individual holding an expired Georgia Clear Renewable or Standard Professional certificate in Audiology who has not met renewal requirements outlined in section (7) below.

(4)

Additional Certificate Titles Issued in the Field.

(a)	Retired Educator (See CERTIFICATION RULE 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUCATOR).

(5)

To Add the Field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD).

(a)	To add Audiology to an existing certificate in any field, an individual must complete the requirements for an initial Audiology certificate outlined in (2)(a), to include all applicable Special Georgia Requirements.

(6)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE).

(7)

Renewal Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

(a)

To renew a Professional Audiology certificate, an individual must meet one of the following options:

1.	Complete renewal requirements outlined in GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS;

2.	Submission of a valid State of Georgia Audiology license issued by the Professional Licensing Boards Division of the Office of the Secretary of State, O.C.G.A. Title 43; or

3.	Submission of a valid Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology from the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).

(8)

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT).

(a)	Individuals certified in Audiology are in-field to serve as an Audiologist in grades P-12.

Rule 505-2-.141 Curriculum and Instruction

(1)	Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for issuance of the service certificate in Curriculum and Instruction P-12, which allows individuals certified in this field to have enhanced knowledge and competency in curriculum, teaching, learning, and teacher education.

(2)

Professional Requirements.

(a)

Issuance.

1.

An individual is eligible for an Induction or Professional certificate in the field of Curriculum and Instruction based on meeting the following requirements:

(i)	Hold a level four (4) or higher Induction or Professional certificate in any field;

(ii)	Complete a state-approved certification preparation program in Curriculum and Instruction at the master's degree level - level five (5) - or higher;

(iii)

Meet the Special Georgia Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS) applicable to the field of Curriculum and Instruction; and

(I)	Pass the GACE content knowledge assessment; and

(II)	Standards of Conduct.

(iv)	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(3)

Non-Renewable Professional Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

A One (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate in the field of Curriculum and Instruction may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) to an individual holding an expired Georgia Clear Renewable or Standard Professional certificate in Curriculum and Instruction who has not met renewal requirements outlined in section (7) below.

(4)

Additional Certificate Titles Issued in the Field.

(a)	Retired Educator (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE).

(5)

To Add the Field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD).

(a)	To add Curriculum and Instruction to an existing certificate in any field, an individual must complete the requirements for an initial Curriculum and Instruction certificate outlined in (2)(a), to include all applicable Special Georgia Requirements.

(6)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE).

(7)	Renewal Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

(8)

Restrictions.

(a)	The field of Curriculum and Instruction may not be added or used to upgrade a Provisional certificate or previously issued Induction Pathway 4 certificates or the equivalent.

(9)

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT). An individual holding the Curriculum and Instruction certificate has strengthened and enhanced competency levels to perform the following duties:

(a)	Design, implement, and evaluate curriculum that promotes student learning.

(b)	Plan, implement, and evaluate instruction to facilitate student learning.

(c)	Demonstrate advanced depth and breadth of knowledge and skills in the academic discipline and pedagogy.

(d)	Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the student as influenced by cognitive, physical, emotional, social, cultural, environmental, and economic factors.

(e)	Promote student learning and contribute to the teaching profession by applying research.

(f)	Use multiple sources of assessment for maximizing student learning.

(g)	Model high standards of professional practice.

Rule 505-2-.142 Instructional Technology

(1)

Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for issuance of the service certificate in Instructional Technology P-12, which allows individuals certified in this field to provide instruction, training, and resources to students, teachers and administrators in order to facilitate the use of technology in the classroom to promote student achievement.

(2)

Professional Requirements.

(a)

Issuance.

1.

An individual is eligible for an Induction or Professional certificate in the field of Instructional Technology based on meeting the following requirements:

(i)	Hold a level four (4) or higher Induction or Professional certificate in any field;

(ii)	Complete a state-approved certification preparation program in Instructional Technology at the master's degree level - level five (5) - or higher;

(iii)

Meet Special Georgia Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS) applicable to the field of Instructional Technology; and

(I)	Pass the GACE content knowledge assessment; and

(II)	Standards of Conduct.

(iv)	Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION AND APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(3)

Non-Renewable Professional Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

A One (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate in the field of Instructional Technology may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) to an individual holding an expired Georgia Clear Renewable or Standard Professional certificate in Instructional Technology who has not met renewal requirements outlined in section (7) below.

(4)

Additional Certificate Titles Issued in the Field.

(a)	Retired Educator (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.44 RETIRED EDUCATOR CERTIFICATE).

(5)

To Add the Field (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.34 ADD A FIELD).

(a)	To add Instructional Technology to an existing certificate in any field, an individual must complete the requirements for an initial Instructional Technology certificate outlined in (2)(a), to include all applicable Special Georgia Requirements.

(6)	To Upgrade the Level (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.33 CERTIFICATE UPGRADE).

(7)	Renewal Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.36 RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS).

(8)

Restrictions.

(a)	The field of Instructional Technology may not be added or used to upgrade a Provisional Certificate or previously issued Induction Pathway 4 Certificate or the equivalent.

(9)

In-Field Statement (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.40 IN-FIELD ASSIGNMENT). An individual holding the Instructional Technology certificate has strengthened and enhanced competency levels to include:

(a)	Visionary Leadership: The individual demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to inspire and lead the development and implementation of a shared vision for the effective use of technology to promote excellence and support transformational change throughout the organization.

(b)

Teaching, Learning, & Assessment: The individual demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to effectively integrate technology into his/her own teaching practice and to collaboratively plan with and assist other educators in utilizing technology to improve teaching, learning, and assessment.

(c)	Digital Learning Environments: The individual demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to create, support and manage effective digital learning environments.

(d)	Digital Citizenship & Responsibility: The individual demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to model and promote digital citizenship and responsibility.

(e)

Professional Learning & Program Evaluation: The individual demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to conduct needs assessments, develop technology-based professional learning programs, and design and implement regular and rigorous program evaluations to assess effectiveness and impact on student learning.

(f)	Candidate Professional Growth & Development: The individual demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to engage in continuous learning, reflect on professional practice, and engage in appropriate field experiences.

Rule 505-2-.143 Media Specialist

(1)

Summary: This rule outlines the requirements and procedures for issuance of the service certificate in Media Specialist P-12, which allows individuals certified in this field to collaborate, plan, and design with school personnel in areas such as information literacy and assessment, while also providing supplemental curriculum material to bridge the digital divide.

(2)

Professional Certificate Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.05 PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

Issuance.

1.

An individual is eligible for a Standard Professional certificate in the field of Media Specialist based on meeting the following requirements:

(i)	Completion of a state-approved certification preparation program in Media Specialist at the master's degree level - level five (5) - or higher;

(ii)

Meet the Special Georgia Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.24 SPECIAL GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS) applicable to the field of Media Specialist; and

(I)	Pass the GACE content knowledge assessment;

(II)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better; and

(III)

Standards of Conduct.

(iii)

Apply for certification following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(3)

Provisional Certificate Requirements (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

Issuance.

1.	Hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution;

2.	Pass or exempt the GACE Program Admission Assessment;

3.	Pass the GACE content assessment;

4.	Meet Georgia's standards of conduct; and

5.	Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(b)

The Provisional certificate will be issued for one (1) year pending verification of enrollment in GaPSC-accepted educator preparation program leading to certification in the field of Media Specialist. Once enrolled in a GaPSC-accepted program, the certificate will be extended for two additional years (See RULE 505-2-.08 PROVISIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(c)

Conversion.

1.	Complete a GaPSC-accepted program in the field of Media Specialist; and

2.

Meet the following Special Georgia Requirements:

(i)	Satisfy the Special Education requirement with a grade of B or better;

(ii)	Meet Standards of Conduct; and

(iii)

Have the certificate requested by the employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) following procedures outlined in Rule 505-2-.27 CERTIFICATION APPLICATION PROCEDURES.

(4)

Non-Renewable Professional Certificate (See GaPSC Rule 505-2-.09 NON-RENEWABLE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE).

(a)

Non-Renewable Professional certificate in the field of Media Specialist may be issued at the request of an employing Georgia local unit of administration (LUA) in the following scenarios:

1.	One (1)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate in the field of Media Specialist may be issued to an individual who holds an expired Georgia Clear Renewable or Professional Media Specialist certificate but has not met renewal requirements outlined in section (8) below.

2.	Three (3)-year Non-Renewable Professional certificate in the field of Media Specialist may be issued to an individual who currently holds a renewable professional certificate in any field at a level four (4) or higher for completion of the options outlined in (2)(a).

(5)

Full Name:
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