Career Switcher Teacher Licensure Program

This information is presented in response to numerous inquiries about our program.  It is current, but subject to change.  Please use contact information at the end of this document for additional details.

We accept applications on a continual basis until all slots are filled for upcoming cohorts.  Deadline for fall cohort (starting in Sept.) is Aug. 1st; deadline for spring cohort (starting in Feb.) is Dec. 1st.

WVPEC Career Switcher - Dates and Information

The required 160 hours of instruction is delivered during Saturday sessions (8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. at a central site) and a two-week intensive session (daily 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Mon. through Fri. during the last two full weeks of June at Radford University or other designated place).  Please contact (540) 831-6399 or deena.stowers@wvpec.org for location changes.
 

Please contact us to inquire about housing options, if needed.  Housing and meal expenses are not included as a part of the program fee (participants are responsible for making their own arrangements).

Additional Information

Career Switcher instruction includes 160 hours of classroom "seat time" plus 20 hours of field experience (participant's responsibility).  After completing Level I instruction (end of June) and all program requirements, participants will receive an eligibility license, which will provide the professional credentials to obtain a teaching position.  We will certainly be as helpful as possible, but job search is the "switcher's" responsibility!

Upon securing a teaching position, participants are assigned a mentor during the first year of employment, required to participate in five (5) Saturday seminars throughout the school year, submit weekly reflections and required to develop a professional portfolio.  After successful completion of all program requirements (including one year as a full-time teacher in the licensed content area) and upon WVPEC's and your division superintendent's recommendation, your name will be submitted to the Va. Dept. of Education for a 5-year renewable teaching license.

Cost is $3,850.00 payable by check to "Western Va. Public Education Foundation" (due at first class session).

For application information or further details:

Western Virginia Public Education Consortium
P.O. Box 7035
Radford, VA 24142
Email: jsellers@wvpec.org  or deena.stowers@wvpec.org

Phone: (540) 831-6399       Fax: (540) 831-6414 (not automatic)