Where can I get fingerprinting done?

You can get this done at most police stations.  Please refer to the suggested fingerprint location document.

Why does OTE ask graduates to complete surveys?

We contact all candidates from licensure programs after program completion to follow up on employment status within their first year of teaching. Such reporting is required for state reports, accreditation and institutional data review as part of our continuous improvement of teacher preparation programs. 

Where do I get a lanyard for my field experience?

Lanyards are available from your program area. After fall 2022, OTE no longer provides lanyards to teacher candidates during their clinical field experiences.  

Can I hand deliver my licensure application to Minnesota Department of Education's Professional Educator Standards and Licensing Board (PELSB)?

Yes,  you can hand deliver your license application packet to PELSB.  Make sure to print the email you received from the OTE that contains signed licensure documents and transcripts, and include it in your license application packet.   Licensure documents that are submitted without the email indicating they have been forwarded from the teacher preparation provider will not be accepted by PELSB.  

How long will it be to get my license?

This depends on the Professional Educator Standards and Licensing Board (PELSB).  OTE processes and emails license documents back to you within a few days of receipt.   Once you submit your license application packet to PELSB,  processing depends on PELSB's timeline. PELSB makes every effort to complete the process within 30 days of receiving complete paperwork and your background check. 

Do you know my upcoming placements for Student Teaching?

This depends on your content area, faculty, and advisor. We work hard to place students in schools and districts that meet state requirements for the placement and fit (to the best of our ability) the school partner and candidate's needs. The OTE Clinical Partnerships team will notify you as soon as we finalize placements. 

How can I get and M <3 Teacher t-shirt?

We only raffle M <3 Teacher t-shirts at the annual MEA Conference, which usually takes place in mid-October. We hope to see you there!