Are you considering a fulfilling career in education and wondering about the application process for the teacher certification program at Eastern Connecticut State University (ECSU)? You’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about submitting your CARE program information at ECSU, ensuring you are well-prepared for your application.
Eastern Connecticut State University is an excellent choice for aspiring educators. The Committee for Admission and Retention in Education (CARE) oversees the teacher certification program, managing admissions, student progress, and program completion for all candidates—undergraduate, graduate, and post-baccalaureate. Understanding the CARE process is crucial for a smooth application experience.
This article will answer your key questions about applying to the Teacher Certification Programs at ECSU, focusing on where and how to submit your information effectively.
Understanding the CARE Application Process at ECSU
The CARE Committee plays a vital role in your journey to becoming a certified teacher through Eastern Connecticut State University. They ensure that all candidates meet the high standards of the program and are well-equipped for the challenges and rewards of a career in education. Let’s delve into the specifics of the application process.
How Do I Apply to the Teacher Certification Program?
All undergraduate applicants to ECSU’s Teacher Certification Programs must apply online using Tk20, a comprehensive electronic data management system. This online platform streamlines the application process and allows you to submit all required materials efficiently.
Undergraduate Application via Tk20 (Deadline: February 15)
The online application is user-friendly and free of charge. You don’t need to complete it all at once; you can save your progress and upload documents as you gather them. However, ensure your application is complete by the deadline for consideration.
ECSU offers various certification paths:
- Early Childhood Education (ECE): Pre-K to Grade 3 certification with a special education endorsement.
- Elementary Education (ELE): Grades 1-6 certification.
- Secondary Education (SEC): Grades 7-12 certification.
- Physical Education (HPE): Pre-K-12 certification.
What are the CARE Application Deadlines?
Being aware of the deadlines is crucial to ensure your application is considered for your desired semester.
For Fall Admission:
- February 15: General Deadline
- August 1: Transfer Students Only
For HPE Admission:
- August 1, October 1, December 1, February 15: Multiple deadlines throughout the year offer flexibility for Physical Education applicants.
Undergraduate applicants are typically eligible to apply once they have earned between 45 and 60 credits, usually during their sophomore year.
What Documents Do I Need to Submit for My CARE Program Application?
To complete your application, you’ll need to submit several supporting documents. Here’s a checklist to help you gather everything required:
- Unofficial Transcript from Eastern: Easily accessible through the Registrar’s Office at ECSU.
- Official Transcripts from Other Colleges/Universities (if applicable): Request official transcripts from any institutions you’ve previously attended.
- Praxis I, SAT, ACT, or GRE Score Report: Submit scores from one of these standardized tests to demonstrate basic skills competence. More details on score requirements are provided below.
- Three Recommendation Forms: These forms should be submitted to the Education Office in sealed envelopes. Provide these forms to your recommenders well in advance of the deadline.
- Service Clock Form (or Summary Form): Document your required service hours working with children.
Understanding the Service Hours Requirement
Gaining practical experience with children is a valuable part of preparing for a teaching career. ECSU’s Education Program requires applicants to complete at least 20 hours of service working with children before applying. This experience helps you confirm your passion for education and provides valuable insights into the profession.
Key points about service hours:
- The children you work with should be diverse and similar in age to the students you aspire to teach.
- Up to half of the 20 hours can be paid experience (e.g., camp counselor, daycare employee).
- The remaining hours should be voluntary (e.g., unpaid coaching, tutoring, volunteering in community programs like Big Brother/Big Sister).
- Babysitting does not count towards the service hour requirement.
Who Reviews My CARE Program Application?
Your application is thoroughly evaluated by the CARE Committee, composed of experienced faculty members from the Education Department representing all education programs. CARE ensures consistency and fairness in the admissions process, monitoring candidates throughout their program journey. Remember, CARE oversees the program but is not the program itself.
When Will I Hear About My Admission Decision?
The CARE Committee reviews applications shortly after each deadline and makes decisions on a rolling basis. As CARE meets monthly, it may take up to six weeks to receive an update on your application status. Patience is appreciated, and you will be notified as soon as a decision is made.
What About the Praxis I Test Requirement?
While the Connecticut State Department of Education (SDE) no longer mandates Praxis I for state certification, demonstrating basic skills competency through standardized testing remains a requirement for teacher candidates. You can fulfill this requirement by submitting scores from one of the following tests:
- Praxis I Core (5752): Minimum scores required for each section:
- Reading (5713): 156
- Writing (5723): 162
- Mathematics (5733): 150
- SAT: Minimum scores:
- Reading and Writing: 540
- Mathematics: 530
- ACT: Minimum subtest scores:
- Reading: 21
- English: 20
- Mathematics: 20
- GRE: Minimum subtest scores and combined score:
- Verbal: 150
- Mathematics: 144
- Writing: 4.5
- Combined Verbal/Math: 297
If you don’t meet the minimum scores, you have options:
- Retake the deficient section(s) of the test.
- Complete alternate courses at Eastern with a grade of “C” or better. These courses include the Stage 2 Writing requirement for Reading/Writing deficiencies and MAT 135, MAT 135P, MAT 139P, MAT 195, or MAT 243 for Math deficiencies. These courses must be completed before student teaching.
What If My Application to the Education Program is Not Accepted?
If you are not admitted to the undergraduate Education Program initially, you will receive feedback on areas for improvement. If applying as a sophomore, you can re-apply as a senior through the Early Start Option. Alternatively, you can apply to the traditional graduate program after graduating, which typically takes three semesters. Consulting with an Education Department faculty member is recommended to discuss your best path forward.
Exploring the Early Start Option
The Early Start Option is designed for students who decide to pursue teaching later in their undergraduate studies. It allows seniors to begin introductory education courses in the spring semester of their senior year. After graduation, you’ll transition to graduate-level coursework over the summer and continue as a full-time graduate student in the fall. This pathway culminates in a Master of Education degree and eligibility for certification in the spring.
Applying to the Early Start Option still requires acceptance into the Education Program. Application deadlines align with Fall Semester deadlines, with priority admission considered for applications submitted by October 1st.
Expanding Your Credentials with Cross-Endorsement Options
ECSU supports educators in expanding their expertise. Numerous cross-endorsement opportunities are available after earning your initial certification, including in high-demand areas like Secondary English, Mathematics, History/Social Studies, Biology, and Earth Science, as well as PreK-12 Art, Music, Special Education, and TESOL.
For detailed information on cross-endorsement requirements, contact Dr. Mark Fabrizi or explore available resources. Remember, applying for additional endorsements is the student’s responsibility, and consulting with the CT State Department of Education is advised to ensure proper coursework alignment.
ECSU’s recognition as a College of Distinction highlights its commitment to high-quality education programs, including teacher certification.
Conclusion: Submitting Your CARE Program Information with Confidence
Navigating the application process for teacher certification can seem daunting, but Eastern Connecticut State University and the CARE Committee are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. By understanding the application requirements, deadlines, and submission procedures outlined in this guide, you can confidently prepare and submit your CARE program information and take a significant step towards your rewarding career in education. Remember to utilize the provided links and resources, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the Education Department for any further assistance.
