Classified Staff Pursuing a Teaching License

After understanding that a license is required, review your education and work history to see how close you are to meeting requirements.

Ask yourself:

• Have you completed an associate degree or some college credits toward one?
• Have you taken prerequisite courses (like math, English, or education foundations) that could count toward a degree?

Visit the TSPC Approved Oregon Programs list to identify eligible programs.

As you explore programs, use the following fillable checklist to take notes and help keep you organized:

NCSD Exploring TSPC-Approved Programs Checklist
 

Reach out directly to the program contact and attend any program information sessions they may offer to gain deeper insight and ultimately select the program you’d like to attend.

These sessions will help you understand the program structure, expectations, and how to succeed.

After selecting a program, carefully review the requirements so you understand what will be expected from enrollment through licensure.

Find out the following:

• Required coursework and credit hours
• Program length and anticipated completion timeline
• Required content area tests and when they should be completed
• Practicum and student teaching requirements, including the number of hours or weeks required
• Whether student teaching will require you to step away from your current NCSD position
• Any GPA, prerequisite, background check, or other program requirements
• Requirements you must complete to be recommended for Oregon teacher licensure after finishing the program

Teacher preparation programs can be a significant financial investment, so explore all available funding opportunities before determining how you will pay for your program.

Research the following:

• Tuition assistance/reimbursement opportunities offered through NCSD Professional Development Tuition Reimbursement Funds
• Federal and state financial aid, including completing the FAFSA
• Scholarships and grants specifically for future educators
• University or program-specific scholarships
• Scholarships or incentives for candidates pursuing high-need teaching areas
• Payment plans offered by the college or university
• Whether your program qualifies for any loan forgiveness or service-based financial assistance programs
• Additional expenses beyond tuition, such as books, testing fees, licensure fees, background checks, and student teaching costs

Be sure to submit your application before the deadline.

• Ensure all required materials—transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and test scores—are accurate and ready.
• Double-check application requirements and deadlines, and consider having a mentor or advisor review your materials before submission.
• After you apply, keep track of your confirmation and follow up if you don’t hear back in a few weeks.
   

After you’ve enrolled in the program, let your building administrator know as soon as possible.

• Keeping them informed allows them to provide you with support as you balance coursework or preparing for student teaching down the line.
• Open communication ensures they can help you plan for success.

Begin thinking ahead to your student teaching or practicum experience. The earlier you plan, the smoother it will be...

• Fill out the Classified Staff Needing to Complete Student Teaching, Practicums or Internships form to notify HR that you’re enrolled in a program and will need a placement in the future.
• This helps us align with district needs and ensure we support you with a suitable placement when the time comes. 
• Additionally, in most cases, you will need to take a leave of absence from your position in order to complete your full time student teaching experience so it will be important to plan ahead for this.