Subchapter B. CERTIFICATION OF GRADUATES FROM
COMMONWEALTH INSTITUTIONS
GENERAL PROVISIONS Sec.
49.71. Basic requirements.
49.72. Categories of certificates and letters of eligibility.
49.73. [Reserved].
INSTRUCTIONAL CERTIFICATES
49.81. General.
49.82. Instructional I.
49.83. Instructional II.
49.84. Collegiate credit acceptable for conversion of the Instructional I Certificate.
49.85. Limitations.
49.86. Accelerated program for Early Childhood and Elementary/Middle Level Certificate holders.
TEMPORARY TEACHING PERMITS
49.90. Criteria for eligibility.
INTERN CERTIFICATES
49.91. Criteria for eligibility.
49.92. Term of validity.
EDUCATIONAL SPECIALIST CERTIFICATES
49.101. General.
49.102. Educational Specialist I.
49.103. Educational Specialist II.
49.104. College credit acceptable for conversion of Educational Specialist I Certificate.
49.105. Limitations.
SUPERVISORY CERTIFICATES
49.111. Supervisory Certificate.
49.112. [Reserved].
ADMINISTRATIVE CERTIFICATES
49.121. Administrative Certificate.
49.122. [Reserved].
GENERAL PROVISIONS
§ 49.71. Basic requirements.
Applicants for a certificate shall have completed, in addition to all legal requirements, a program of educator preparation approved by the Department and shall have the recommendation of the preparing institution.
Source The provisions of this § 49.71 amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (329968).
§ 49.72. Categories of certificates and letters of eligibility.
(a) The following basic categories of certificates and letters of eligibility will be issued by the Department:
(1) Temporary Permit.
(2) Emergency and Substitute Permits.
(3) Intern Certificates.
(4) Instructional Certificates.
(5) Educational Specialist Certificates.
(6) Supervisory Certificate.
(7) Administrative Certificate.
(8) Program Specialist Certificate.
(9) Letters of Eligibility.
(10) Career and Technical Education Certificates.
(11) Exceptional Case Permits.
(12) Resource Specialist Permits.
(b) The Secretary annually will disseminate an approved list of official titles of all certificates and letters of eligibility which the Department has issued during the past fiscal year or proposes to issue in the ensuing year.
Authority The provisions of this § 49.72 issued under sections 1317 and 1319 of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § § 367 and 369) (Repealed).
Source The provisions of this § 49.72 amended through September 12, 1980, effective September 13, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 3665; amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (329968).
§ 49.73. [Reserved].
Source The provisions of this § 49.73 reserved January 9, 1976, effective January 10, 1976, 6 Pa.B. 47.
INSTRUCTIONAL CERTIFICATES
§ 49.81. General.
(a) The Department will issue instructional certificates to persons whose primary responsibility is teaching. Candidates for instructional certificates shall be able to help students achieve under Chapter 4 (relating to academic standards and assessment).
(b) Instructional certificates will be issued to candidates who meet the following standards:
(1) The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline the teacher teaches and can create learning experiences that make these aspects of subject matter meaningful for all students.
(2) The teacher understands how all children learn and develop, and can provide learning opportunities that support their intellectual, social, career and personal development.
(3) The teacher understands how students differ in their ability and approaches to learning and creates opportunities that foster achievement of diverse learners in the inclusive classroom.
(4) The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies, including interdisciplinary learning experiences, to encourage students’ development of critical thinking, problem solving and performance skills.
(5) The teacher uses an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning and self-motivation.
(6) The teacher uses knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal and media communication techniques supported by appropriate technology to foster active inquiry, collaboration and supportive interaction in the classroom.
(7) The teacher plans instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, students, the community and curriculum goals.
(8) The teacher understands and uses formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate and ensure the continuous intellectual, social and physical development of the learner.
(9) The teacher thinks systematically about practice, learns from experience, seeks the advice of others, draws upon educational research and scholarship and actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.
(10) The teacher contributes to school effectiveness by collaborating with other professionals and parents, by using community resources, and by working as an advocate to improve opportunities for student learning.
Source The provisions of this § 49.81 amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (227863).
§ 49.82. Instructional I.
(a) The Instructional I Certificate is valid for 6 years of teaching in public schools or in eligible provider settings (as defined in § 405.2 (relating to definitions)) in this Commonwealth in the area for which it applies. It may be converted to an Instructional II Certificate as provided by § 49.83 (relating to Instructional II).
(b) The Instructional I Certificate will be issued to applicants who:
(1) Possess a baccalaureate degree.
(2) Present evidence of successful completion of a Department-approved teacher preparation program.
(3) Present evidence of satisfactory achievement in assessments prescribed by the Department under § 49.18(a) (relating to assessment).
(4) Receive recommendation for certification from the preparing college or university or alternative program provider.
Authority The provisions of this § 49.82 issued under sections 202, 408.1, 1302 and 1317—1320 of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § § 62, 118.1 (Repealed), 352 and 367—370 (Repealed)).
Source The provisions of this § 49.82 amended through January 25, 1985, effective June 1, 1987, 15 Pa.B. 245; readopted May 29, 1992, effective May 30, 1992, 22 Pa. B. 2824; amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (404330).
Notes of Decisions The three-year period of validity of Instructional I Certificate is three years of active teaching rather than three calendar years from the date of its issue. Pointek v. Elk Lake School District, 360 A.2d 804 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1976).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 49.1 (relating to definitions); 22 Pa. Code § 49.2 (relating to inactivity and invalidity); and 22 Pa. Code § 49.18 (relating to assessment).
§ 49.83. Instructional II.
The Instructional II Certificate will be issued to an applicant who has completed:
(1) A Department-approved 2-year induction program.
(2) Three years of satisfactory teaching on an Instructional I Certificate attested to by the chief school administrator of the approved public or nonpublic school entity in which the most recent service of the applicant was performed.
(3) Twenty-four credit hours of collegiate study or its equivalent in credits from the Department, a Pennsylvania intermediate unit or any combination thereof. The Department will publish a ‘‘Certification and Staffing Policy Guideline’’ that establishes up to the equivalent of six specific course credit hour requirements for each new Instructional I Certificate issued by the Department after September 22, 2007.
(4) Present evidence of satisfactory achievement in assessments prescribed by the Department under § 49.18(a) (relating to assessment).
Authority The provisions of this § 49.83 issued under sections 202, 408.1, 1302 and 1317—1320 of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § § 62, 118.1 (Repealed), 352 and 367—370 (Repealed)).
Source The provisions of this § 49.83 amended through January 25, 1985, effective June 1, 1987, 15 Pa.B. 245; readopted May 29, 1992, effective May 30, 1992, 22 Pa. B. 2824; amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended September 21, 2007, effective September 22, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 5150; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (404330) to (404331).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 49.18 (relating to assessment); 22 Pa. Code § 49.82 (relating to Instructional I); and 22 Pa. Code § 405.64 (relating to teacher induction plans and evaluations).
§ 49.84. Collegiate credit acceptable for conversion of the Instructional I Certificate.
(a) College credit acceptable for conversion to the Instructional II Certificate shall be earned at a State-approved associate degree-granting institution, baccalaureate or graduate degree granting institution.
(b) Credits earned in programs designed to prepare for professional fields such as law, medicine or theology, when relevant to the area of certification, will be considered acceptable for purposes of renewing or converting the Instructional I Certificate.
(c) Credits shall be earned subsequent to the conferring of the baccalaureate degree. Graduate credits earned prior to obtaining the Instructional I Certificate are considered acceptable for purposes of converting the Instructional I Certificate.
Source The provisions of this § 49.84 amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (404331).
§ 49.85. Limitations.
(a) Instructional certificates issued before January 1, 2013, remain valid for the term of the certificate for the grade spans and age levels outlined in items paragraphs (1)—(6). For instructional certificates issued before January 1, 2013, the grade level limitations shall be the following:
(1) Early childhood (prekindergarten, kindergarten, grades one through three or ages 3 through 8).
(2) Elementary (kindergarten, grades one through six or ages 4 through 11).
(3) Middle level (grades six through nine or ages 11 through 15).
(4) Secondary (grades seven through twelve or ages 11 through 21).
(5) Specialized areas (prekindergarten through grade 12 or up to age 21).
(6) Special education (prekindergarten through grade 12 or up to age 21).
(b) For instructional certificates issued on or after January 1, 2013, the grade level limitations shall be the following:
(1) Early Childhood (prekindergarten, kindergarten, grades one through four or ages 3 through 9).
(2) Elementary/Middle (grades four through eight or ages 9 through 14). Elementary/Middle Certificates permit instruction in any subject in grades four, five and six and in a core academic subject or subjects in grades seven and eight.
(3) Secondary (grades seven through twelve or ages 11 through 21).
(4) Specialized Areas (prekindergarten through grade twelve or up through age 21).
(5) Special Education—PK—8 (prekindergarten through grade eight (ages 3 through 14)). Applicants for this certificate shall also obtain certification in one of the following certificates:
(i) Early Childhood—in accordance with paragraph (1).
(ii) Elementary/Middle—in accordance with paragraph (2).
(iii) Reading Specialist—in accordance with paragraph (4).
(6) Special Education—7—12 (grades seven through twelve (ages 11 through 21)). Applicants for this certificate shall also obtain certification in one of the following certificates:
(i) Secondary—in accordance with paragraph (3).
(ii) Reading Specialist—in accordance with paragraph (4).
(7) Special Education Hearing Impaired, Visually Impaired and Speech/Language Impaired Certificates (prekindergarten, kindergarten, grades one through twelve or ages 3 through 21).
(c) Instructional certificates issued beginning January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2021, remain valid for the term of the certificate for the grade spans and age levels outlined in subsection (b) paragraphs (1)—(7).
(d) For instructional certificates issued on or after January 1, 2022, the grade level limitations shall be the following:
(1) Early Childhood (prekindergarten, kindergarten, grades one through four or ages 3 through 9).
(2) Elementary/Middle (grades four through eight or ages 9 through 14). Elementary/Middle Certificates permit instruction in any subject in grades four, five and six and in a core academic subject or subjects in grades seven and eight.
(3) Secondary (grades seven through twelve or ages 11 through 21).
(4) Specialized areas (prekindergarten through grade twelve or up through age 21).
(5) Special Education PK—12 (prekindergarten through grade 12 or under 21 years of age). Applicants for this certificate are not required to obtain any additional certificates.
(6) Special Education Hearing Impaired, Visually Impaired and Speech/Language Impaired Certificates (prekindergarten, kindergarten, grades one through twelve or a person 3 years of age and a person under the age of 21).
(e) The decision about staffing based on age or grade level rests with the school entity.
(f) The Secretary may grant exceptions to the grade and age level limitations between Early Childhood (subsection (b)(1)), Elementary/Middle (subsection (b)(2)), Special Education—PK—8 (subsection (b)(5)) and Special Education—7—12 (subsection (b)(6)) for individual teachers on a case-by-case basis. The school entity shall submit a written request to the Secretary that provides justification for the exception. The Secretary will set a time limit for each individual exception granted. The Secretary will issue guidelines that outline the circumstances under which exceptions will be granted.
(g) When a school district contracts with a community provider for the provision of prekindergarten services, prekindergarten teachers providing the services shall possess a certificate in early childhood as provided in subsection (a)(1) or subsection (b)(1) within the following time frame:
(1) For contracts in place prior to September 22, 2007, September 24, 2012.
(2) For first-time contracts, 5 years from the start of services.
(h) The Secretary may grant exceptions in response to shortages of certified personnel that apply Statewide to specific provisions of this section when it is necessary to facilitate transition to the revised provisions scheduled to become effective on January 1, 2022. Exceptions may be granted under the following conditions:
(1) The Secretary will provide a written certification to the Board that includes relevant information and justification of the need for the exception. If the Board does not disapprove the exception within 90 days of receipt of the certification, the exception will stand approved.
(2) The exception will be valid for a limited term not to exceed 3 years.
(3) The Secretary will report annually to the Board on the nature and status of exceptions made under this section.
Source The provisions of this § 49.85 amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended September 21, 2007, effective September 22, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 5150; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 22, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (404331) to (404332) and (372243).
Notes of Decisions Preschool
A teacher who teaches preschool, special education classes administered by the Intermediate Unit and the Department of Education is covered by the certification provisions of this section and is entitled to use her previous 2 years in the preschool program for the purpose of obtaining the status of professional employe based merely upon having taught in a preschool environment. Haibach v. Northwest Tri-County Intermediate Unit No. 5, 471 A.2d 914 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1984).
Cross References This section is cited in 22 Pa. Code § 4.20 (relating to prekindergarten education).
§ 49.86. Accelerated program for Early Childhood and Elementary/Middle Level Certificate holders.
(a) The Department will establish standards consistent with the criteria outlined in subsection (d) for an accelerated program for Early Childhood and Elementary/Middle Level Certificate holders to be effective January 1, 2013.
(b) Early Childhood Instructional I or Instructional II Certificate holders may add the Elementary/Middle Level I Certificate through the successful completion of a Department approved accelerated program of study offered by an approved Commonwealth institution.
(c) Elementary/Middle Level Instructional I or Instructional II Certificate holders may add the Early Childhood Instructional I Certificate through the successful completion of a Department approved accelerated program of study offered by an approved Commonwealth institution.
(d) Accelerated programs must include appropriate level academic content aligned with State academic standards, child development and instructional practice appropriate for the developmental level covered by the certificate. Applicants shall demonstrate subject matter knowledge by passing the appropriate assessment under § 49.18 (relating to assessment).
Source The provisions of this § 49.86 adopted September 21, 2007, effective September 22, 2007, 37 Pa.B. 5150; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (372243) to (372244).
TEMPORARY TEACHING PERMITS
§ 49.90. Criteria for eligibility.
(a) The Department may make a one-time issuance of a Temporary Teaching Permit for service in a specific area of instruction for use in elementary, middle or secondary schools to applicants who, in addition to meeting the requirements of § 49.12 (relating to eligibility), hold a credential issued by a Board-approved National alternative certification program and completed any ancillary requirements agreed upon by the Department and the credentialing authority.
(b) The Temporary Teaching Permit will be valid for 1 calendar year from the date of issuance.
(c) The Department will issue an Instructional I Certificate when the prescribed courses or ancillary requirements are satisfied.
Source The provisions § 49.90 adopted July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (372244).
INTERN CERTIFICATES
§ 49.91. Criteria for eligibility.
(a) The Department may make a one-time issuance of an Intern Certificate for service in a specific area of instruction for use in elementary, middle and secondary schools to applicants who, in addition to meeting the requirements of § 49.12 (relating to eligibility), present evidence of satisfactory achievement on Department-prescribed assessments of basic skills and subject matter tests; are enrolled in and have completed appropriate professional education courses in an approved intern program, which may include an induction; and are recommended for certificates by the institution holding approval. Candidates for Elementary, K-12 Instructional and Early Childhood Certificates shall also be assessed in the area of general knowledge.
(b) The applicant will be issued an Instructional I Certificate upon completion of the approved intern program and satisfactory achievement on the assessment of professional knowledge and practice.
(c) Intern Certificate programs must provide flexible and accelerated pedagogical training to teachers who have demonstrated competency in a certification area, provided that the first year of teaching includes a minimum of one classroom observation each month by an approved college/university in this Commonwealth.
(d) An Intern Certificate is valid for 3 years of service. This professional certificate may be issued only to an applicant who is a graduate of an accredited 4-year college or university. During the first year, the applicant shall complete all tests, enroll in an authorized program and complete a minimum of nine credits per year. The certificate requires continuing enrollment in a State-approved teacher intern program. This certificate cannot be renewed.
Authority The provisions of this § 49.91 issued under sections 202, 408.1, 1302 and 1317—1320 of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § § 62, 118.1 (Repealed), 352 and 367—370 (Repealed)).
Source The provisions of this § 49.91 amended through January 25, 1985, effective June 1, 1987, 15 Pa.B. 245; readopted May 29, 1992, effective May 30, 1992, 22 Pa. B. 2824; amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; corrected October 8, 1999, effective October 9, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 5289; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (372244) to (372245).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 49.18 (relating to assessment); and 22 Pa. Code § 403.4 (relating to highly qualified teachers).
§ 49.92. Term of validity.
The Intern Certificate will be issued for the period of time necessary for the candidate to complete the approved intern program, but this time period will not exceed 3 years of service.
Source The provisions of this § 49.92 amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (372245).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 49.1 (relating to definitions); 22 Pa. Code § 49.2 (relating to inactivity and invalidity); and 22 Pa. Code § 403.4 (relating to highly qualified teachers).
EDUCATIONAL SPECIALIST CERTIFICATES
§ 49.101. General.
The Department will issue Educational Specialist Certificates to persons whose primary responsibility is to render professional service other than classroom teaching. The service shall be directly related to the personal welfare of the learner and may include service for the needs of other professional personnel working with learners. Candidates for Educational Specialist Certificates shall be able to help students achieve under Chapter 4 (relating to academic standards and assessment). Educational specialist certificates will be issued to candidates who meet the following standards:
(1) The educational specialist understands the central concepts, structures and delivery styles of the professional area in which the educational specialist practices and can foster learning experiences for all students.
(2) The educational specialist understands how all children learn and develop, and can contribute to the provision of learning opportunities that support their intellectual, social, career and personal development.
(3) The educational specialist understands how students differ in their ability and approaches to learning and creates opportunities that are adapted to diverse learners.
(4) The educational specialist understands and uses a variety of professional strategies to encourage students’ development of critical thinking, problem solving and performance skills.
(5) The educational specialist uses an understanding of individual and group motivation and behavior to create a learning environment that encourages positive social interaction, active engagement in learning and self-motivation.
(6) The educational specialist uses knowledge of effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques supported by appropriate technology to foster active inquiry, collaboration, and supportive interaction in and out of the classroom.
(7) The educational specialist plans professional services based upon knowledge of the professional field, students, the community and curriculum goals.
(8) The educational specialist understands and uses formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate and ensure the continuous intellectual, social and physical development of the learner.
(9) The educational specialist thinks systematically about practice, learns from experience, seeks the advice of others, draws upon educational research and scholarship and actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.
(10) The educational specialist contributes to school effectiveness by collaborating with other educators and parents, by using community resources, and by working as an advocate for change to improve opportunities for student learning.
Source The provisions of this § 49.101 amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (295074) and (260825).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 19.3 (relating to nonteaching professional employee effectiveness rating tool).
§ 49.102. Educational Specialist I.
(a) The Educational Specialist I Certificate is valid for 6 years of service in public schools in this Commonwealth in each area for which it is endorsed. It may be converted to an Educational Specialist II Certificate in any endorsement area as provided in § 49.103 (relating to Educational Specialist II).
(b) The Educational Specialist I Certificate will be issued to applicants who:
(1) Present evidence of successful completion of a Department-approved educational specialist preparation program or its equivalent.
(2) Present evidence of satisfactory achievement in assessments prescribed by the Department under § 49.18(a) (relating to assessment).
(3) Receive recommendation for certification from a college or university if completing a Department-approved educational specialist preparation program.
Authority The provisions of this § 49.102 issued under sections 1317 and 1319 of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § § 367 and 369) (Repealed).
Source The provisions of this § 49.102 amended September 12, 1980, effective September 13, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 3665; amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (260825).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 19.3 (relating to nonteaching professional employee effectiveness rating tool); 22 Pa. Code § 49.1 (relating to definitions); and 22 Pa. Code § 49.2 (relating to inactivity and invalidity).
§ 49.103. Educational Specialist II.
The Educational Specialist II Certificate will be issued to an applicant subject to the requirements of § 49.17(c) (relating to professional development) who has completed:
(1) A Department-approved induction program.
(2) Three years of satisfactory service on an Educational Specialist I Certificate attested to by the chief school administrator of the approved public or nonpublic school entity in which the most recent service of the applicant was performed.
(3) Twenty-four credit hours of collegiate study or its equivalent in credits approved by the Department, credits from an intermediate unit, or any combination thereof.
Authority The provisions of this § 49.103 issued under sections 1317 and 1319 of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § § 367 and 369) (Repealed).
Source The provisions of this § 49.103 amended September 12, 1980, effective September 13, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 3665; amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (260825) to (260826).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 19.3 (relating to nonteaching professional employee effectiveness rating tool); and 22 Pa. Code § 49.102 (relating to Educational Specialist I).
§ 49.104. College credit acceptable for conversion of Educational Specialist I Certificate.
(a) College credit acceptable for conversions to the Educational Specialist II shall be earned at a State-approved baccalaureate or graduate degree granting institution.
(b) Credits earned in programs designed to prepare for professional fields such as law, medicine or theology, when relevant to the area of certification, will not be considered acceptable for purposes of converting the Educational Specialist I Certificate.
(c) Credits shall be earned subsequent to the conferring of the baccalaureate degree. Graduate credits earned prior to obtaining the Educational Specialist I Certificate are considered acceptable for purposes of converting the Educational Specialist I Certificate.
Source The provisions of this § 49.104 amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (372248).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 19.3 (relating to nonteaching professional employee effectiveness rating tool).
§ 49.105. Limitations.
The grade level limitations of educational specialist certificates shall be specified in the standards stated for the respective preparation programs of certification.
Source The provisions of this § 49.105 amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (256383).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 19.3 (relating to nonteaching professional employee effectiveness rating tool).
SUPERVISORY CERTIFICATES
§ 49.111. Supervisory Certificate.
(a) The Department will issue Supervisory Certificates for positions in the schools of this Commonwealth to persons who:
(1) Have completed 5 years of satisfactory certified experience in the area in which the Supervisory Certificate is sought.
(2) Have completed an approved graduate or approved alternative program preparing the applicant for the responsibilities of supervising in the program area and of directing the activities of certified professional employees.
(3) Present evidence of satisfactory achievement in assessments prescribed by the Department under § 49.18(a) (relating to assessment).
(4) Are able to help students achieve under Chapter 4 (relating to academic standards and assessment).
(5) Meet the following standards:
(i) The supervisor understands the central concepts of organizational leadership, tools of research and inquiry and principles of teaching and learning that make supervision effective and efficient.
(ii) The supervisor understands how all children learn and develop and configures resources to support the intellectual, social and personal growth of all students.
(iii) The supervisor knows and understands effective instructional strategies and encourages and facilitates employment of them by teachers.
(iv) The supervisor uses an understanding of individual and group motivation to create a professional development environment that engages teachers to develop and apply effective instructional techniques for all students.
(v) The supervisor is an effective communicator with various school communities.
(vi) The supervisor organizes resources and manages programs effectively.
(vii) The supervisor understands and uses formative and summative assessment strategies to gauge effectiveness of people and programs on student learning.
(viii) The supervisor understands the process of curriculum development, implementation and evaluation and uses this understanding to develop high quality curricula for student learning in collaboration with teachers, administrators, parents and community members.
(ix) The supervisor possesses knowledge and skills in observation of instruction and conducting conferences with professional staff that are intended to improve their performance and enhance the quality of learning experiences for all students.
(x) The supervisor thinks systematically about practice, learns from experience, seeks the advice of others, draws upon educational research and scholarship and actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.
(xi) The supervisor contributes to school effectiveness by collaborating with other professionals and parents, by using community resources, and by working as an advocate to improve opportunities for student learning.
(b) Notwithstanding the requirements of subsection (a), and excluding Special Education Supervisory Certification, the Department may issue additional Supervisory Certificate areas to individuals who already hold a valid State Supervisory Certificate if they demonstrate competency in the requested supervisory area by one of the following:
(1) complete 12 Department-approved credits of collegiate study in the supervisory area sought, or
(2) achieve a passing score on the applicable content test.
(c) For Supervisory Certificates issued under paragraph (b), 5 years of service in the area is not required.
(d) A Supervisory Certificate for either Curriculum and Instruction or Pupil Personnel Services will be issued to persons who:
(1) Have 5 years of satisfactory professional certified service in the school program area for which the comprehensive certificate is sought.
(2) Have completed an approved graduate or approved alternative program preparing the applicant for the broad area, districtwide supervisory functions specified by the endorsement area of the certificate.
(3) Present evidence of satisfactory achievement in assessments prescribed by the Department under § 49.18(a).
Authority The provisions of this § 49.111 issued under sections 1317 and 1319 of The Administrative Code of 1929 (71 P.S. § § 367 and 369) (Repealed).
Source The provisions of this § 49.111 amended September 12, 1980, effective September 13, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 3665; amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (372249) to (372251).
Notes of Decisions Professional Employee
Person who had been certificated as a teacher but not as a supervisor and who wished to contest her ‘‘demotion’’ from a supervisory position to a teaching assignment was not a ‘‘professional employee’’ for purposes of requiring a hearing under section 1151 of the Public School Code of 1949 (24 P. S. § 11-1151). School District of Philadelphia v. Brockington, 511 A.2d 944 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1986); appeal denied 523 A.2d 1132 (Pa. 1987).
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 19.3 (relating to nonteaching professional employee effectiveness rating tool); 22 Pa. Code § 49.161 (relating to Supervisor of Career and Technical Education); and 22 Pa. Code § 49.163 (relating to Career and Technical Administrative Director).
§ 49.112. [Reserved].
Notes of Decisions Person who had been certificated as a teacher but not as a supervisor and who wished to contest her ‘‘demotion’’ from a supervisory position to a teaching assignment was not a ‘‘professional employee’’ for purposes of requiring a hearing under section 1151 of the Public School Code of 1949 (24 P. S. § 11-1152). School District of Philadelphia v. Brockington, 511 A.2d 944 (Pa. Cmwlth. 1986); appeal denied 523 A.2d 1132 (Pa. 1987).
Source The provisions of this § 49.112 amended September 12, 1980, effective September 13, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 3665; reserved September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (256384).
ADMINISTRATIVE CERTIFICATES
§ 49.121. Administrative Certificate.
(a) The Department will issue Administrative Certificates to persons who have a minimum of 3 years of satisfactory instructional or student support experience completed in a public or private PK—12 school or accredited institution of higher education and have completed an approved program of graduate study, approved alternative program, or completed the alternative route in accordance with section 1207.1(d) of the act (24 P.S. § 12-1207.1(d)) preparing the applicant to direct, operate, supervise and administer the organizational and general educational activities of a school. Applicants shall be recommended by the preparing institution or alternative program provider in which the program was completed. Candidates for Administrative Certificates shall be able to help students achieve under Chapter 4 (relating to academic standards and assessment).
(b) Certificates may be issued for any administrative area for which program approval has been granted by the Department.
(c) The Department will issue Administrative Certificates to persons who present evidence of satisfactory achievement on assessments prescribed by the Department under § 49.18(a) (relating to assessment).
(d) The Department will issue Administrative Certificates to persons who meet the following standards:
(1) The administrator demonstrates instructional leadership which provides purpose and direction for the achievement of all students.
(2) The administrator demonstrates the organizational skills to implement plans of action efficiently and effectively for student achievement.
(3) The administrator, in collaboration with students, faculty, staff and parents, creates a school climate that fosters student achievement.
(4) The administrator gathers information from, and communicates effectively to students, faculty, parents, staff and the community to facilitate student achievement.
(5) The administrator understands the importance of a clear, detailed vision and an explicitly stated philosophy in shaping a coherent curriculum and in fostering an effective school.
(6) The administrator makes systematic use of data to assess the needs and accomplishments of students, faculty and staff.
(7) The administrator thinks systematically about practice, learns from experience, seeks the advice of others, draws upon educational research and scholarship, and actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally.
Source The provisions of this § 49.121 amended September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954; amended July 14, 2006, effective July 15, 2006, 36 Pa.B. 3655; amended April 22, 2022, effective April 23, 2022, 52 Pa.B. 2451. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (372251) to (372252).
Notes of Decisions Experience Requirements Mandatory
Applicant was not entitled to administrative certificate as secondary principal pursuant to experience requirements established by the Department of Education which is authorized to issue administrative agency interpretative policies and directives. Davenport v. Department of Education, 850 A.2d 802, 803 (Pa. Cmwlth. 2004)
Cross References This section cited in 22 Pa. Code § 19.3 (relating to nonteaching professional employee effectiveness rating tool); and 22 Pa. Code § 49.163 (relating to Career and Technical Administrative Director).
§ 49.122. [Reserved].
Source The provisions of this § 49.122 amended September 12, 1980, effective September 13, 1980, 10 Pa.B. 3665; reserved September 24, 1999, effective September 25, 1999, 29 Pa.B. 4954. Immediately preceding text appears at serial page (227869).
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