Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take for me to become a certified teacher?
The Inspired Teacher Certification Program is a 15-month program. Program participants begin at the end of June 2010 by participating in a 7-week summer training that involves coursework and practice teaching. In the fall, participants begin teaching in a DC public or charter school. During the first year of teaching, participants continue to take courses and are paired with an Inspired Mentor who will provide individualized support in the classroom. The following summer, participants take culminating coursework. Upon successful completion of all program requirements, typically in August of 2011, Center for Inspired Teaching will recommend program participants for full licensure to teach in the District of Columbia. Continued mentoring is available and strongly encouraged for alumni in DC schools. Learn more on the Program Overview page.
What kind of applicant is Inspired Teaching looking for?
Inspired Teaching is interested in attracting exceptional individuals from all walks of life to become outstanding teachers. The program is open to recent college graduates, mid-career professionals, early retirees, and anyone else with a bachelor's degree and the personal characteristics that will enable them to advance educational reform in their classrooms. Learn more on the Who We Want page. Can experienced, but uncertified, teachers apply to the program?
Yes. Anyone who meets the eligibility requirements is invited to apply.I have taken several college courses in education. Can I still apply?
Yes. Anyone who meets the eligibility requirements is invited to apply.What do I need to do before I come to the Summer Experience?
All accepted applicants are required to take and pass the Praxis I test and the Praxis II Content Area Knowledge test related to their certification area. Enrollment and placement as a teacher are contingent on successful completion of these tests. All candidates are required to have Praxis I scores and Praxis II: Content Area Knowledge scores on file by June 1, 2010. For more information about the Praxis test series, look here.Additionally, accepted candidates must complete two major assignments before the summer practicum. One involves observing children in a school setting. The other is based upon an assigned text to read. In addition, all accepted candidates will need to pass a background check by June 1, 2010. Upon being accepted to the program, you will receive additional details on the pre-practicum assignments and background check requirements.
Can I substitute other tests, such as the SAT or subject-area exams, for the Praxis I?
No. The Praxis I requirement is set by the state and we cannot offer applicants any flexibility regarding these tests.What does the Summer Experience entail?
The Summer Experience is an intensive, 7-week training designed to jumpstart candidates' learning about teaching. In addition to coursework, program participants teach students half a day for four weeks. Learn more here.Where will I be teaching in the fall?
The Inspired Teacher Certification Program is designed to place participants in DC's public schools, both traditional and charters. Although we believe that Inspired Teaching's reputation will greatly benefit new teachers in the hiring process, we cannot guarantee that you will be hired; in the end, finding a teaching job is the Fellow's responsibility. However, Inspired Teaching provides a great deal of support for candidates in job placement. For example, we work with administrators to identify schools that will have openings, actively market our candidates to principals looking to fill vacancies, and provide coaching and support throughout the interview and hiring process. Learn more about the Teaching Position.
Intensive mentoring is an essential component of the Inspired Teacher Certification Program. Inspired Mentors meet with Inspired Teaching Fellows weekly, observe their classes, and offer constructive feedback, coaching, and personal support. The mentoring is designed to be responsive to the needs of first year teachers and make the most of the Inspired Teaching coursework, integrating theory and practice.
Is my certification reciprocal in school districts beyond Washington, DC?
The Inspired Teacher Certification Program prepares candidates to be fully licensed by the District of Columbia. Most states offer some level of reciprocity for licenses from DC, but the details vary from state to state, and even from year to year. The policies of the 'receiving' state can generally be found on that state's department of education website.I'm applying from out of town--what does that mean in terms of arranging for a personal interview?
Unfortunately, we are not able to offer travel support or other accommodations for out-of-towners at this time. If selected for a personal interview, you will have a choice of dates to attend, with at least one week-end option. A personal interview is required for admission into the program.
