A private school teacher who is not legally required to hold a state teaching certificate may receive board certification if she submits proof that the private school where she taught has state approval to operate. The two systems are difficult to compare because they are so different. In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements listed above, they must prepare a school-site portfolio including descriptions of their practice, student work, and videotapes of classroom activities. Then, during two days of assessment, they participate in structured interviews, work on collaborative activities with other teachers, take a written essay exam, and work on real-life problems that confront teachers. An initial certificate is valid for two years and may be reissued five times.
Professional certificates are valid for five years.
In addition to a teaching certificate, Connecticut teachers must get endorsements for their particular teaching areas. State regulations require particular coursework requirements for each endorsement. A list of Connecticut endorsements is enclosed. The states are Alabama, Alaska, California, Delaware, Georgia, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.