The Complexities of Middle-Level Teacher Certification: Status Report and Future Directions

• In Event: Poster Session 2
  In Poster Session: Division K Section 10 Poster Session: Teaching and Teacher Education Policy and Research

Abstract

In an effort to capture a snapshot of the status of middle level teacher certification throughout the United States, the purpose of this study is to explore the expectations and policies for middle level teacher certification at the individual state level and examine the different options available to obtain certification. Researchers analyzed certification documents from the 50 United States and District of Columbia. Results highlight the complexity of teacher certification at the middle level. Of the 50 states and DC, 30 offer stand-alone certification at the middle level, 15 offer a middle level endorsement, and 6 states do not grant middle level certification. Individual differences and similarities among states offering middle level certification are highlighted.

Authors

• Nicole C. Miller, Mississippi State University

• Nicole L. Thompson, The University of Memphis

• Chris Cook, Appalachian State University

• Penny B. Howell, University of Louisville

• Shawn A. Faulkner, Northern Kentucky University

• Margaret Rintamaa, University of Kentucky