Certification Success Tips

Tip #1: Save your TEA ID. Your TEA ID number will be required throughout the certification process.

Tip #2: Save the deadlines. Add deadlines to your calendar or agenda. Missing a deadline could lead to additional expenses.

Tip #3: Check your certification checklist routinely. Bookmark your certification checklist and check it once a month.

Tip #4: Budget money for your certification expenses. Allocate at least $25 a month towards certification expenses. This money will cover the cost of tests, study resources, workshops, and applying for your certification.

Tip #5: Budget time for your certification responsibilities. Completing your certification items such as studying for an exam or completing a workshop requires dedicated time with little to no distractions. Most certification tests require many hours of studying. Budget regular hours a week to work consistently to meet your goals and deadlines.

Tip #6: Confirm certification requirements with your school leader/hiring district. School leaders or hiring districts may operate on an accelerated timeline and/or have additional certification requirements for employment. Examples include passing the content test prior to the Relay deadline or requiring an ESL Supplemental certification in Year 2. Checking with your employer will ensure you are on track for both Relay and your school.

Tip #7: Study! To prepare for a certification test:

• Identify your study style
• Develop a study plan with mini goals or benchmarks
• Identify or create your dedicated study space
• Dedicate at least 3 hours per week to studying

Tip #8: Utilize your campus resources:

• your faculty advisor
• your campus operations staff
• campus office hours
• library days
• support@relay.edu

Tip #9: Find your support network. In addition to your supporters at Relay,

• Invest your friends and family in your teaching and certification goals.
• Find others to study with.
• Trade tutoring services. Teach a friend a subject you are strong in, and have a friend teach you another subject in return.

Tip #10: Create a certification goal. When the combined responsibilities become overwhelming, it is important to stay motivated by reminding yourself of your “why?”. Why is it important to become a certified teacher?