Summary

William Butler Yeats once said that “Education is not the filling of the pail, but the lighting of a fire.”  Those who are called to teach know this to be true.  Once the flame is ignited by the spark of learning there is no stopping the spread of the fire of knowledge.  For this reason, Texas A&M University-Texarkana has adopted an Alternative Teacher Certification Program for those who have heard the call and are involved in different careers.  This program is intended to be a fast track, high intensity program for those who have decided to become responsible for lighting a fire.

Be responsible for lighting a fire today….
TEACH!

Texas A&M University-Texarkana’s Alternative Certification Program is uniquely designed for those who have earned their bachelor's degree and seek a career change into the teaching profession.

The program spans approximately 15 months and is organized into three phases: Pre-Internship, Internship, and Post-Internship.

Pre-Internship coursework begins during the summer months prior to employment as Teacher of Record and provides intensive training introducing a variety of teaching strategies, classroom management skills, the basics of curriculum development, approaches to student motivation, and much more.

Internship marks the beginning of a career in teaching and extends throughout the public school year. The focus is continued professional development and the application of best teaching practices.

Post-Internship marks the conclusion of the program during the summer months following internship. This phase will assist you in gaining further meaning from teaching experiences and establish future professional goals.