Office of Accreditation & Teacher Quality

New certification rules allow for authorization as "teacher" or "instructor"

With new certification rules effective Sept. 1, 2000, the Department of Education now issues certificates based on professional preparation designating the individual as either a "teacher" or an "instructor."

Individuals who have completed an approved education program for teachers at an accredited four-year institution continue to be certified as "teachers." However, some individuals who have not completed such programs may be certified as "instructors."

Eligible "instructors" will initially be issued a two-year nonrenewable certificate, if they have been offered employment by an accredited school in South Dakota and have submitted a professional development plan (PDP) to be set up by the department in consultation with the employing school. After that, a five-year certificate may be issued with continued employment and a continuing PDP, if the requirements of the two-year PDP were completed.

This new method of certifying instructors covers people currently certified in vocational areas and American Sign Language, as well as teachers of Braille and Lakota language. It also applies to those who pursue alternative certification. It also expands eligibility to include certification as an "instructor" in driver education or junior ROTC.

In addition, individuals who have completed "unaccredited" or "unapproved" teacher education programs or alternative certification programs in other states may be issued certificates as "instructors." Individuals who have a bachelor’s degree with a major in a subject/area comparable to school subjects, but who have not completed a teacher education program, may also be certified as instructors for employment of up to one-quarter full time.

Any individuals eligible for certification as an instructor may remain certified in that manner with continuing employment and a PDP. If instructors want to become certified as teachers, they need to complete a PDP for alternative certification or an approved education program for teachers while employed.