Certification is a professional obligation for teachers in the state of Pennsylvania. Like all public schools in the city of Philadelphia and state of Pennsylvania, we, as an organization, are obligated to ensure that our teaching force holds the appropriate qualifications and certifications to provide educational services to students. As a teacher here, you must actively be taking steps to get certified. Please see your Employee Handbook for more information RE: Certification Requirements. 

Uncertified teachers have access to ONE free set of vouchers and tuition reimbursement. Don't forget to use those perks!

UNCERTIFIED NEW STAFF

• Complete the New Hire Certification Survey asap

NEW & RETURNING STAFF DEADLINES for SY 25-26

• Procure your emergency certification BEFORE you start teaching (returners apply before you leave for the summer)

• ASAP: Determine what you need to be certified by reviewing cert plans here & the state's resources for new educators & out of state transfers.

• By October 31st 2025: Complete the Fall Progress Monitoring Survey to show proof of your progress towards certification (Survey will open October 17th 2025)

• By February 6th 2026: Complete the Winter Progress Monitoring Survey that determines if you are able to obtain an offer letter for the following school year (Survey will open January 23rd 2026)

• If you are a Gen Ed teacher with extenuating circumstances as to why you have not met the certification requirements, complete the exemption request survey by February 6th 2026 (Survey will open January 23rd 2026 & decisions come in March)

• Submit your tuition reimbursement request by June 15th.

• Before the last day of school, apply for your emergency certification OR full time cert