Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do we get set up to take the Praxis?

• Visit the Praxis Website and register for the Praxis test you need to take.  50% of the Praxis fees may be reimbursed.  

• To request possible reimbursement, complete and submit this form: Praxis Reimbursement Form 

Is there additional coursework to become a Special Education Teacher?

• • If you are getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, you can major in Special Education or get dual certified in one of the general education areas (Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary) and Special Education.  

  • If you have a Bachelor’s Degree and you are in a ACT or MAT program you would choose to get the ACT or MAT in Special Education and that will include all the course work you need. 

Are Title I schools able to have conditional special education teachers? 

• • Having all staff certified is a priority for Title I schools, so we do all we can to meet this priority.  Since the pandemic and the massive shortages, it has become more acceptable to take conditional employees given the lack of staff.  If teachers are not certified or conditionally certified, they must have a plan with HR that will verify their intent to pursue certification.

How do I apply for tuition reimbursement? 

• • All employees of SMPCS have $3,500 for tuition reimbursement for the 2023-2024 school year (FY24).  If you are taking classes to become a teacher, you will receive an additional $1,000 each year.

  • To access your tuition reimbursement, use this link: http://tuition.smcps.org.

  • Each reimbursement cycle starts on July 1st and ends on June 30th. Each July 1st, a new allotment of money is available.

  • Reference the EASMC-ESP Negotiated Agreement  for your guidance in determining eligibility for tuition reimbursement.

What are my employment options during student teaching?

• • Unfortunately, you aren’t able to work and student teach at the same time.  During student teaching, you are able to request a sabbatical, which will provide you with 50% of your pay and 100% of your benefits.  You will be guaranteed a position for which you are qualified when you return, however, it may be at a different location.  A written letter requesting a sabbatical and the reason should be submitted to Dr. Farrell in the Human Resources Department as soon as you know when you will be doing your student teaching.  

What is the pathway to becoming a Speech Pathologist?

• • Holds a master's degree from an accredited educational institution.

  • Completion of supervised clinical experience.

  • Completion of supervised postgraduate professional experience.

  • Passage of the national examination in speech-language pathology.

  • Demonstration of oral English competency

  • More information can be found here: ASHA

What content areas do I have to take tests in?

• • Teacher Candidates applying for certification in all academic content areas must demonstrate mastery of basic reading, writing, and math skills.  This is considered the Basic Skills Assessment Requirement:

    • Those teacher candidates who submit a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on their most recently earned degree are not required to submit a basic skills assessment.  Candidates who do not have an overall GPA of 3.0, must present one of these assessments.

  • Each area of certification (subject) also has testing requirements in addition to the Basic Skills Assessment Requirement. 

    • For more information about subject area tests, refer to this site: Subject Tests MSDE Site