College of Education

Beyond Provisional Certification

 

Beyond Provisional Teacher Certification 

Common Questions and Answers About Teaching Certification

Question: I have my Provisional Teacher Certificate. Now what?  The answer depends on your situation.

Answers: When you receive your Provisional Certificate from the Michigan Department of Education, you will notice your certificate will give the date of issuance, the expiration date, the certification level, and endorsement areas.

To move to the next level, the Michigan Department of Education requires teachers to accrue three consecutive years of effective teaching experience that reflects student growth (determine by school employer and within certificate area) and fulfill reading requirements. Effective July 1, 2009, an approved course in the diagnosis and remediation of reading disabilities and differentiated instruction, including field experience, is required before obtaining the Professional Certificate. To view approved reading courses click here.

Question: When I am ready, how do I apply for my professional certificate?

Answer: Upon completion of requirements, candidates must have a MEIS account and initiate the certification recommendation process by self-registering online through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). For instructions on how to create a MEIS account and apply for your professional, renewal, or endorsement, go to: www.michigan.gov/moecs

Note:Educators will be able to print their own electronic certificate and employers must verify the validity of the certificate via MOECS.

Question: If I don't have a full time teaching job, how can I gain my three years experience?

Answer: You will need to check with your school employer to determine if you meet the three years of effective teaching required.

Certification Options

The following are options for improving teacher quality. See the University catalog for more information.

Option 1. Master's Degree

Earning a master's degree from an approved teacher education institution, with quality graduate education programs, will enhance teacher skills at various levels. It is recommended you meet with an appropriate College of Education advisor to select a planned program that meets your needs.

Option 2. Additional Major or Minor

The applicant may earn additional endorsements consisting of at least 20 hours within the College of Education or in approved subject area majors or minors. Program advisors must approve all additional endorsements. Applicants must also pass Michigan Subject Area tests.

Option 3. Additional Certificate Level

This option is available for candidates who wish to become certified at a level other than that of their original certificate. An example: a secondary teacher who wants to become elementary certified.

Option 4. Professional Development

Candidates may choose professional development courses from the following areas and plan their program with a College of Education Advisor.

  • Courses in subject matter related to the applicant's teaching major and minor.
  • Courses in professional education such as administration, curriculum, guidance, methods, etc.

For further information contact:

COE Student Information and Services Center
101 Eberhard Center
301 West Fulton Street
Grand Rapids, MI 49504-6495
Telephone: (616) 331-6650
email: coeserve@gvsu.edu