Provisional License Holders

If you have recently begun your career in teaching, we understand there's a steep learning curve and your new job can be tough.  Then you receive the license from VDOE with the lengthy document outlining all the things that need to be done to obtain your full license.  It's confusing and overwhelming.  Don't worry! Our team is here to help. 

VDOE strongly encourages Provisional license holders to complete approved licensure prep programs.  Here's why that's a good idea..... when a college/university works with VDOE to gain approval of their program, they outline the courses that will be offered to meet VDOE requirements and VDOE approves them.  In some instances they may satisfy more than one competency in a single class, which could mean fewer classes overall.  When you complete all requirements of an approved program, they complete what's called a College Verification Form (CVF).  If you've ever seen Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, think of the CVF as the golden ticket.  While we'll still have to submit transcripts to VDOE, the golden ticket tells them they don't need to review every course on the transcripts to ensure you've met the requirements.

If an approved program isn't the route you want to take......that's OK too.  There are many reasons you may not want to complete a "program" - perhaps you're only missing a couple of courses or you're on a provisional license for a Career & Tech Ed endorsement, so you only need 9 hours of coursework.   Whatever the reason, there are other options. Using this route, you won't have the "golden ticket" we mentioned above, so it will be critically important to make certain you're taking the right courses to satisfy the requirements.  The best way to do that is through our Licensure Specialist.   

Before you register for a class, it's always wise to check with licensure.  Email a copy of the course description with the specific competency you're hoping to satisfy to licensure@henrico.k12.va.us and we'll review the course and let you know if it's appropriate. The majority of the time we're able to make that decision in house.  If there's any question whether or not the course will satisfy the requirement, we have two options.....

1. We send the course description to our designated specialist at VDOE and request review.  Depending on the time of year and their workloads this can take anywhere from 6-8 weeks. 

2. We suggest a different course that we're certain will satisfy the requirements. 

Keys to Success

1. Start early!!  It's much easier to take one or two courses at a time.  Map out a plan for completion and stick to it!  The goal should be to complete all requirements by March in the year your license will expire.  This will give ample time to submit to VDOE and address any issues should they arise. 

2. If you've been cited for Classroom & Behavior Management make that one of the first classes you take.  A well organized & structured classroom will make all the difference in your teaching experience.  However, you don't know what you don't know.   Take this class early to learn the best practices in classroom management and you'll be better positioned for success!

3. Ask questions! If you have any questions throughout the process, reach out to the licensure office.  We're here to guide and support you through this process!