All Michigan teachers should be aware of changes that will affect state requirements for renewing their teaching certification, as well as advancing from the Provisional Certificate to the Professional Certificate. All changes become effective Sept. 1, 2013.

Under the new administrative rules, teachers no longer have to earn 18 credits in a planned program to qualify for the Professional Certificate. They may now meet that portion of their requirements with six credit hours at an approved teacher preparation institution or the equivalent number of hours in state continuing  education or district-provided professional development (or a combination thereof).

In addition, teachers will no longer need a recommendation from a teacher preparation program to apply for renewals or upgrades to their certification. Instead, they will apply directly to the state Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Visit education.msu.edu/certification/certification-update for more information about the new rules.

If your certificate expires before Sept. 1, 2013, you must meet requirements under the current rules. Information about current requirements can be found on our website at education.msu.edu/certification/certification-overview.asp and education.msu.edu/certification/teachers-administrators.

The College of Education at Michigan State University offers several advanced degree programs for educators who want to expand their knowledge and experiences while updating their certification along the way. Visit education.msu.edu/academics/masters.

Tags: certification, policy, Teacher education, teachers