National teaching credential vs. State (CA) credential.

Question

I'm wondering if someone has experience in knowing the time difference when you get your teaching credential at a statehood level versus a national level (preferrably with a Master's program either way). I have a BS in education related field.

Maybe the only difference is the test at the end? :)

I would like to know the coursework differences and the amount of time in school to get one or the other. I want my time spent most efficiently, but also giving the most freedom in the future.

Finally, does anyone have any suggestions for good online universities to obtain a national or CA state teaching credential 1 and 2 in elementary education.

Thanks!

Answer 1

You are thinking about it incorrectly.

National board certification is not the same as a state credential. in fact you cannot even apply for national boards untill you become a state certified teacher and have taught for three years. see here:

http://www.nbpts.org/become_a_candidate/...

The second area of difficulty is thinking you can get a credential online. There are no state approved programs that are online. Most credential programs are set up in cohort situations (teaching requires you to plan and coordinate with peers). In addition, I have been answering these types of questions for the last year the same - online programs cannot deal with student teaching - the large online programs cannot possibly mentor every teacher in far parts of the country while they do their classroom portion - states require that their mentor physically visit.

If you are going to be a teacher, you need to do your homework. go to the state website and learn the requirements - they even list all of californias approved programs. All the basic information is easily available to those who need it.

Answer 2

National accreditation is a big deal. Not only is the accomplishment amazing but it may also boost your pay in your district. Its a good thing to do if you plan on moving around a lot, because it provides certification in most states. It also contributes towards re-certification.

In order to qualify, you must have a bachelors, have 3 years teaching experience, and have a valid state issued license. So you couldn't get a national accreditation without a state level license.

You would have to complete four portfolio entries. Three are classroom based, and the fourth relates to work outside of the classroom and how it impacted student learning.

You would also have to complete 6 response exercises that relate to your certification. They are each 30 minutes long and are computer based.

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