Initial Certification Overview
Initial certification requires verification from an accredited institution that the candidate has completed an approved education program.
Five-Year Certificate
To receive a five-year certificate candidates must:
- Have completed a teacher preparation program,
- Have completed six transcripted credits obtained in the past five years, and
- Passed all required Praxis II tests
Candidates not meeting the credit or Praxis test requirement can apply for a one-year certificate.
Additional Coursework Requirements
Educators must also complete a human relations course and South Dakota Indian studies course. If eligible for certification, educators may have additional time to complete this coursework.
Application Process
The application process requires:
- Online initial application and fee
- Official transcripts showing the education degree and additional credits completed
- University sign-off verifying completion of the teacher education program
Additional documentation may be required:
- Copy of Praxis II test scores
- Copy of certificates candidate has from other states
- Verification of teaching experience in another state
- Documents supporting legal alien status for non-citizenship
- Copy of legal documents required for any criminal offense declared through the online initial application
- International academic credentials must be evaluated to insure they are recognized in the US.
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