Everything You Should Know About Certification

This presentation, "Everything You Should Know About Certification," by Michelle Gaines, Bureau Chief for Educator Certification at the Florida Department of Education, provides a comprehensive overview of the educator certification process in Florida. The session begins with Gaines sharing her personal experiences with and passion for educator certification. She emphasizes the importance of having qualified and certified educators in every classroom to ensure that students have access to a quality education.

The presentation then delves into the legislative changes to educator certification statutes and rules for 2024. Gaines discusses updates to athletic coaching certification, the new classical education certificate, and the temporary teacher internship certification pathway. She also covers the adjunct teaching certificate and the temporary teacher internship certificate.

Gaines also discusses the two new certification fee waivers for educators who add certain subject areas to their certificates. She also reviews the existing waivers for retired first responders and military personnel and their spouses. The presentation also covers the new inactive status certificate, which allows educators to place their certificates on hold for up to a year.

The presentation concludes with a review of the pathways for demonstrating mastery of the general knowledge exam, including the use of SAT, ACT, and CLT scores in addition to the GRI. Gaines also reviews some of the changes from the 2023 legislative session, including updates to the rules for reading and educational leadership endorsements.

Attendees will leave with a comprehensive understanding of the educator certification process in Florida, including the latest legislative changes and available pathways. The presentation provides valuable information for school leaders, administrators, and aspiring educators seeking to navigate the certification process successfully.