Program Background

The Career Switcher Alternative Route to Licensure Program was created in response to a resolution agreed to by the 1999 General Assembly. The General Assembly requested the Board of Education to study alternative licensure programs and models in other states and develop an alternative pathway to teaching for individuals who have not completed a teacher preparation curriculum but have considerable life experiences, career achievements, and academic backgrounds that are relevant for teaching in pre-K through grade 12. During the 2000 session of the General Assembly funds were appropriated to develop and pilot the first Career Switcher Program. In the summer of 2000, the Board of Education implemented the first Career Switcher Program for military personnel who were interested in becoming teachers. The program was later expanded to individuals in other professions interested in pursuing a career in education.

The Licensure Regulations for School Personnel (PDF) that became effective September 21, 2007 provide a complete description of the alternate route to licensure.