Application Information. for an Independent School Teaching Certificate

Transcription

1 Application Information for an Independent School Teaching Certificate May 2014

2 Table of Contents About the BC Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch... 3 Introduction... 4 Requirements for a Certificate... 5 Required Forms and Documents... 9 Application Process Application Status Fee Information The Standards

3 About the Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch About Us The Teacher Regulation Branch is a part of the Ministry of Education. Its mandate is to regulate educators and is empowered through the Teachers Act to ensure that educators who work with students in BC classrooms are competent and suitable for the important role they play in society. No other occupation spends as much time with their clients as do educators. Parents entrust their children to the care of educators for seven hours a day, five days a week, 40 weeks a year, for 13 years. This intense interaction has an immense impact on children's intellectual, emotional and physical development. The Branch works to ensure that educators are well-educated and prepared for their important work with children and the responsibility they share with parents to raise strong, healthy and informed citizens. The Branch came into being in 2011 under the Teachers Act to assess applicants for certification, issue certificates of qualification (including independent school teaching certificates), conduct reviews of certificate holders and suspend or cancel certificates when necessary. These responsibilities were formerly held by the BC College of Teachers, which existed from January 1, 1988 to January 9, 2012, and the Office of the Inspector of Independent Schools. Certificate holders include classroom teachers, vice-principals, principals, directors and superintendents in the public, independent and First Nations school systems in BC. To learn more about the Teacher Regulation Branch, visit us at Office Location BC Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch W Broadway Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Canada Contact Information Telephone: Toll-Free (within Canada and the United States): Fax: Website: 3

4 Introduction This package contains information about applying for a certificate that will enable you to teach in a specific area(s) in the BC kindergarten to grade 12 independent school system. To apply for a certificate that enables you to teach in all BC kindergarten to grade 12 schools (public, independent and First Nations schools), you need to have completed an approved teacher education program. For more information, please see the General Application Package or visit the Becoming a Teacher section of our website. If you are interested in pursuing a teacher training program in BC, please visit the Teacher Education section of our website. The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPPA) and the Teachers Act The information we collect as part of the application is in compliance with FOIPPA. The Teachers Act authorizes our collection of the personal information we request. Please contact our office if you have questions about the information we request. Regarding your documents All documents we receive as part of your application become the property of the Ministry of Education. We will not return any documents to you, nor will we send them to other individuals and organizations. Fitness to teach You must be a person of a good and moral character to qualify for a certificate. We use the following to evaluate your suitability or "fitness" to teach: the confidential character reference forms the criminal record check results in some cases, the results of a fingerprint search 4

5 Requirements for a Certificate Independent School Teaching Certificate Types and Requirements The Teacher Regulation Branch issues three types of Independent School Teaching Certificates. Please note that this is a general introduction to our certificate types and requirements. We will not be able to tell you what you may need to do to obtain a certificate until we evaluate your complete application. System Restricted Teaching Certificate (SYR) This certificate restricts the holder to teaching within a BC Independent Montessori or Waldorf School. A certificate can be further restricted to kindergarten depending on the program completed. Eligibility criteria include: 120 or more semester hour credits of relevant post-secondary education from a recognized institution. The above-noted 120 semester hour credits of post-secondary education must include a teaching credential from a recognized institution that provides teacher training solely within the Montessori or Waldorf philosophical, educational, or pedagogical perspective. For certificates restricted to Montessori Education, the Teacher Regulation Branch is currently only recognizing programs that are accredited through the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), American Montessori Society (AMS), or the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE). These bodies are recognised in North America as accrediting programs that adhere to the Montessori principles and carry out regular inspections of the programs they accredit. Programs completed internationally will be evaluated on a case by case basis. For certificates restricted to Waldorf Education, the Teacher Regulation Branch is currently only recognising Waldorf education programs completed in North America that are accredited through the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN) or the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA). Programs completed internationally will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Programs that are completed entirely by distance/online education are unlikely to be recognised by these bodies and are therefore not currently recognised by the Teacher Regulation Branch. The Montessori/Waldorf method and philosophies are inherently practical and therefore only teacher education programs that contain significant on-campus education and supervised practicum will be recognised. Proof of language proficiency is required where the first language is not English or French. The minimum scores required on an English proficiency test are as follows: IELTS Academic Listening 6 Reading 6 Writing 7 Speaking 7 Overall 6.5 TOEFL ibt Reading 23 Listening 23 Speaking 27 Writing 25 Total 98 5

6 Requirements for a Certificate For French language proficiency, a minimum of B1 is required on the French Language Appraisal for Placement of Teacher Candidates offered by the University of British Columbia. System Restricted Certificates are non-expiring upon issue due to the fact that recognized Montessori and Waldorf programs contain practicum that is supervised and evaluated. Subject Restricted Teaching Certificate (SR) This certificate restricts the holder to teaching subject(s) within the BC Independent School System that are directly related to his/her post-secondary subject concentrations. Eligibility criteria include: A degree and 120 or more semester hour credits of relevant post-secondary education from a recognized institution. 18 credits of upper level (third and fourth year) academic course work or 30 credits of any level academic course work in the following core teachable areas. Art * Biology Business Education Chef Instructor Chemistry Computer Science Dance * Drama * Earth Science English ** First Nations Education French General Science *** Geography German History Home Economics Italian Japanese Korean Library Mandarin Mathematics Music * Physical Education Physics Punjabi Russian Social Studies **** Spanish Special Education Technology Education Note: SR Certificates must be restricted to one or more teachable areas. Therefore, they are not issued to elementary generalists. The above list of teachable areas is not exhaustive. Exceptions can be made for certain languages and Religious Studies/Education. * At least six credits in a fine and performing arts teaching area must be studies in theory (i.e. non-studio). ** Subject Restricted Certificates are not issued for English as a Second Language (ESL). *** General Science should include courses from a combination of the following disciplines: Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Physical Geography, Geology/Earth Science, Ocean Science, Environmental Science and Astronomy. 6

7 Requirements for a Certificate **** Social studies should include courses from a combination of the following disciplines: History, Geography, Canadian Studies, Political Science, Sociology, Anthropology and Economics. Proof of language proficiency is required where the first language is not English or French. The minimum scores required on an English proficiency test are as follows: IELTS Academic Listening 6 Reading 6 Writing 7 Speaking 7 Overall 6.5 TOEFL ibt Reading 23 Listening 23 Speaking 27 Writing 25 Total 98 For French language proficiency, a minimum of B1 is required on the French Language Appraisal for Placement of Teacher Candidates offered by the University of British Columbia. Subject Restricted Certificates are interim certificates, initially valid for up to 60 months. To upgrade to a non-expiring certificate, the certificate holder must demonstrate successful teaching in an acceptable BC Independent School for at least 1.5 years full time (or equivalent part time). Teacher-on-call experience (substitute teaching) is not accepted to upgrade to a non-expiring certificate. School and Subject Restricted Teaching Certificate (SSR) This certificate restricts the holder to teaching only at the sponsoring authority seeking to employ the applicant, and in one or more subjects related to the holder s specialized postsecondary training, unique life skills or practical experience. SSR certificates may also be grade-restricted, depending on the applicant s credentials, training and experience. Proof of language proficiency is required where the first language is not English or French. The minimum scores required on an English proficiency test are as follows: IELTS Academic Listening 6 Reading 6 Writing 6 Speaking 6 Overall 6 TOEFL ibt Reading 20 Listening 20 Speaking 23 Writing 20 Total 85 For French language proficiency, a minimum of B1 is required on the French Language Appraisal for Placement of Teacher Candidates offered by the University of British Columbia. 7

8 Requirements for a Certificate All SSR applications are approved by the Director of Certification at the Teacher Regulation Branch in consultation with the Inspector of Independent Schools. An SSR-1 designation normally requires post-secondary training in a teachable subject area, and is typically limited to grades K-9; An SSR-2 designation normally requires post-secondary training and credential completion (certificate, diploma, etc.) and is typically needed for instruction of electives at the Graduation Program level. SSR certificates are not normally issued for core provincially regulated subjects commonly taught in the BC school system such as Drama, English, Fine Art, French, Math, Music, Science (including Biology, Chemistry and Physics), Social Studies (including History and Geography), Physical Education, and Technology Education. Applications for SSR Certificates in Special Education will not be considered. Applications for SSR Certificates in the areas of Drama, Fine Art, and Music may be considered depending on a School Authority s specific school or community identity. SSR applications in teaching areas that are difficult to fill (e.g. Foreign Languages, Industrial or Technology Education) will also be considered. Applications for the SSR in Religious Studies/Education or in Board Authority Approved (BAA) authorized courses are well suited. Because areas such as Drama, Fine Art, French (as well as other languages), Music, Industrial or Technology Education are considered core provincially regulated subjects, these applications may be denied depending on particular circumstances. If this is the case, the Director of Certification may suggest that an application for a Letter of Permission (LOP) be made jointly by the individual and the School Authority. If an employer has an individual teaching on an LOP (who has been denied the SSR), the employer will be required to post and advertise the position again in the following school year. If the employer is still unable to fill this position with a certified teacher, the Director of Certification, in consultation with Inspector of Independent Schools, will consider the issuance of an SSR to the individual. This ensures that the School Authority continues to advertise the job in an attempt to find a certified individual to fill the position. School and Subject Restricted Certificates are interim certificates, initially valid for up to 60 months. To upgrade to a non-expiring certificate, the certificate holder must demonstrate successful teaching in an acceptable BC Independent School for at least 1.5 years full time (or equivalent part time). Teacher-on-call experience (substitute teaching) is not accepted to upgrade to a non-expiring certificate. 8

9 Required Forms and Documents Checklist of Application Items Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate form Application fee of $245 (includes the $20 CRRA fee) Consent to a Criminal Record Check form Statement(s) of Professional Standing Teaching report (if you have taught in a K-12 school) Secondary school graduation diploma Official transcripts of all post-secondary studies Distance teacher education program details Verified copies of degrees (if not indicated on transcripts) Two Confidential Character Reference for Authorization to Teach in BC forms Language proficiency Verified copies of your identification document(s) * Some additional documents are required for SSR applications. Please refer to page 13. Verified copy: If we have indicated that we require a verified copy, you will need to contact a notary public or lawyer to have true copies made from your original document. We will also accept photocopies that have been verified by any person who has current, valid certification with the BC Ministry of Education. On the photocopy, he/she must write his/her full name, certificate number and signature. 1. Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate form Please complete all four pages of this form and mail it to us. You must answer all of the questions on the form, and you must sign and date the Declaration of Professional Commitment on page 4. If you have a criminal record, this does not automatically make you ineligible for a certificate. However, you may not qualify if you make false statements or do not tell us about a criminal record. 2. Application fee You must include a non-refundable application fee with your application. We will not open a file for you or review any of your documents until you have paid the application fee. Please see the section on Fee Information for fee amounts and payment options. 3. Consent to a Criminal Record Check form Please complete the Consent to a Criminal Record Check form and submit it to us with your application form. We will forward your information to the Criminal Records Review Program of the Ministry of Justice. In turn, they will send the results directly to us. Once you become certified, you will need to undergo a criminal record check every five years. Criminal record check results are confidential. We cannot accept previous criminal record checks you have completed, and we cannot provide you with a copy of the results of this criminal record check. 9

10 Required Forms and Documents 4. Statement(s) of Professional Standing A Statement of Professional Standing is a letter that states you are a teacher in good standing and that your teaching license has never been revoked, cancelled or suspended for any disciplinary reasons. Statement(s) of Professional Standing must be mailed directly to the Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch from all certification bodies where you hold or have held a teaching certificate. This is required even if you have never taught in the jurisdiction and even if the certificate has expired. If you have taught in a jurisdiction where you do not hold a teaching certificate, you need to ask the employer to send us a brief letter stating whether or not there were any concerns about your conduct or competence. It must be signed, dated, written on letterhead, and sent directly to us from the employer by mail, fax, or as a scanned attachment. 5. Teaching report If you are currently teaching or have previously taught in a K-12 school, please ask the most recent employer to write a teaching report on your behalf. The report must state the name and address of the employer and indicate the start and end dates of your employment. The content of the report should be comprehensive and address your overall competency as an educator. The areas generally described in a teaching report include planning, organization, lesson delivery, classroom management, assessment, interaction with parents, etc. 6. Secondary school graduation diploma If you are applying for an SSR certificate, a verified copy of your secondary school graduation diploma is required. If you are applying for an SR or SYR certificate, a verified copy of the diploma is required only if you completed secondary school outside North America. If your diploma is not available, we will accept a letter from the secondary school stating when you completed your studies. O-level and A-level certificates meet this requirement. 7. Official transcripts of all post-secondary studies Please ask each of the post-secondary institutions you have attended to mail an official transcript directly to us. We do not accept transcripts by fax or . We do not accept transcripts sent by applicants even if the transcripts are sealed or notarized. It is important that we receive a transcript for every college and university you have attended. We do not accept reports completed by ICES in lieu of transcripts. Each course is relevant to our evaluation and we will recognize only courses for which we have an official transcript. Transcripts should show: the dates you were enrolled, the name of each course you took at that institution, the grades you received, and the number of credits granted or lecture hours completed for each course. If the transcripts do not include all of the information we require, we may ask for additional details, such as an outline or program syllabus. If transcripts arrive in languages other than English or French, we will send a copy to you for translation. See the section on Translations for more information. 10

11 Required Forms and Documents 8. Distance teacher education program details If you completed any part of your teacher education program by distance or online education, please ask your Faculty of Education to send details about your program directly to us. The details must state what courses you completed face-to-face and what courses you completed by distance or online. They must also provide the number of lecture hours you attended for each on-campus course and indicate how many days of practicum you completed in a classroom. This information is required only for the studies you completed within your teacher education program. We do not require this information for academic courses you took outside the Faculty of Education. 9. Verified copies of degrees Most transcripts show the degree or qualification you completed. If your transcripts do not provide this information, please send us a verified copy of your degree or qualification. You can also ask the post-secondary institution to send us a letter confirming the qualification awarded. 10. Confidential Character Reference for Authorization to Teach in British Columbia forms Please complete page 1 of each reference form. You will need to ask two referees who have known you for at least two years to complete page 2 and submit the forms directly to us. Your referees do not need to have observed you in any teaching capacity. However, we will not accept forms completed by referees that are too closely related to you, such as relatives, partners, spouses or equivalents. We will not accept letters of reference as a substitute for the reference forms. 11. Language proficiency BC s languages of instruction are English and, in French immersion schools, French. To teach in BC, you need to be able to read, write and speak English or French at an advanced level. Applicants whose first language is not English or French and have completed any part of their education in countries where English or French is not the only official language must meet our language proficiency requirements. We need language proficiency results before we can evaluate your application or tell you of any coursework you may need to complete. It is highly recommended that applicants meet the language proficiency requirements before submitting an application to the Teacher Regulation Branch. Applicants who do not meet our minimum language proficiency requirements will not be issued any certificate until this requirement has been met. English language proficiency We will accept English proficiency results from one of the following: Test of English as a Foreign Language ( institution code: 8693), or International English Language Testing System ( Test results must be mailed directly to us from the testing agency. We will accept results from tests taken within the last two years. 11

12 Required Forms and Documents French language proficiency If you teach in French, you will need to submit proof of French proficiency. We will accept French proficiency results from one of the following: the French Language Appraisal for Placement of Teacher Candidates offered by the Department of Language and Literacy Education at the University of British Columbia, or a written assessment from a Faculty of the French Department of a Canadian university approved by the Teacher Regulation Branch. 12. Verified copies of your identification document(s) We require a verified copy of your birth certificate, as well as proof of any other names appearing on your documents (verified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce certificate or change of name certificate). If you do not have your birth certificate and you were born: in Canada, you need to obtain a replacement from the Vital Statistics department in the province or territory where you were born. outside of Canada, you must have a notary public or lawyer prepare a statutory declaration in which you swear to your date of birth, your full name at birth, your birthplace and the fact that you do not have a birth certificate. You must attach a verified copy of your passport, permanent resident papers or a Canadian citizenship card to the statutory declaration. 12

13 Required Forms and Documents Sample Statutory Declaration To Whom It May Concern I, Johanna Alexandria Doe of Main Street, Anytown, British Columbia, hereby declare the following statements to be true and correct: 1. That I do not have a birth certificate. 2. That the name given to me at birth was Johanna Alexandria Doe. 3. That I was born on the 30th day of September That my place of birth was Sometown, Anycountry. 5. That I am a citizen and attached hereto as Exhibit "A" is a true copy of my passport, which expires on the 19 th day of April And I make this solemn declaration, conscientiously believing it to be true and knowing that it is of the same force and effect as if made under oath. Declared and signed before me at Anytown in the province of British Columbia this day of AD 20. Signature of Declarant Signature and Seal of Notary Public Additional items required for School and Subject Restricted (SSR) applications only: School Authority Form Verified copies of post-secondary certificates earned in your area of expertise Four letters of recommendation 13. School Authority Form Please ask the school authority that is endorsing your application for a School and Subject Restricted Certificate to complete a School Authority Form. Send the completed form to us along with your Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate form. 14. Verified copies of post-secondary certificates earned in your area of expertise Please send us verified copies of any post-secondary certificates you have earned in your area of expertise. These may include participation certificates or certificates that confirm completion of a course or program. If your area is Physical Education, you need to include evidence of a 16- hour First Aid training course. 13

14 Required Forms and Documents 15. Four letters of recommendation We require four detailed sealed letters of recommendation verifying your expertise in your subject area and suitability to teach children. These letters must be from the following: a. Authority (chair or member of the board) b. Principal of the school c. A member of the immediate school community (exclusive of a. and b.) d. Member of the community at large Translations Please ensure that your name is in alphabetized form so that we can match the documents to your file. Documents sent to the Teacher Regulation Branch must be in English, French or the institution s official language. If we require a translation, we will keep the original and send you a copy. You must have the documents translated by one of the sources below and returned to us: Society of Translators and Interpreters of BC: a translator licensed through a federal or provincial government in Canada (phone for more information) a document translation service pre-approved by the Teacher Regulation Branch (for example, MOSAIC Interpretation and Translation Services) the consulate, high commission or embassy in Canada of the country that issued the documents the Canadian embassy, consulate or high commission in the country from which you emigrated Translations must include a statement from the translator that states all of the following: that the translation is accurate and authentic, that the translator is one of the sources listed above (the translator should include his/her identification number and/or seal, name, address and telephone number), and the full name in uppercase letters and signature of the translator. If you already have a translation of the document, you can provide the translation to us. We will determine whether or not the translation is acceptable. 14

15 Application Process Please follow these steps to apply for your Independent School Teaching Certificate: 1. Mail us the following: the Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate form the School Authority Form if you are applying for an SSR certificate the Consent to a Criminal Record Check form the application fee any other documents you can, except for those that must be sent directly to us 2. Contact the institutions and individuals who must send documents directly to us. If we receive these documents before your application form, we will keep them until we receive your application. When we receive your application form, we will: 1. create a file for you and you within five to seven business days to tell you your file number, and 2. add your file to the evaluation queue and append additional documents as they arrive. Once an evaluator has reviewed your file, we will send you a letter listing any documents that are still missing. When we have received all of the required documents, an evaluator will complete the evaluation of your file. This takes approximately five to seven weeks. We will notify you of your evaluation results by mail. If you are eligible, we will send you a Letter of Eligibility telling you the annual fee amount we need to issue your certificate. If you are not eligible for an Independent School Teaching Certificate, we will explain what you need to do to qualify. Our evaluation letter will describe what requirements must be met before we can issue you a certificate. This letter will be valid for five years. Tips about the application process To ensure that your application is processed as smoothly and quickly as possible: Make sure all of the documents you submit are complete and clear. Contact the institutions and individuals that need to send documents directly to us as soon as possible. This is the most time-consuming part of the application process. Do not attempt to take courses before you receive your results. We will not know what courses you may need to take until we have completed the evaluation. Apply to us six months to one year before you arrive in BC. If you must meet some additional requirements, it will be to your advantage to know about these in advance. Ensure that your transcripts are up to date and show that credit has been granted for all completed coursework. Please be patient and prepared for the unexpected. Sometimes documents fail to arrive or more information is needed. 15

16 Application Status How to find out the status of your application We cannot tell you what documents are missing from your application until you receive a letter which will list these items for you. You may contact us to ask whether or not we have received specific documents. We will respond to you within one to two business days. us at [email protected]. Please quote your file number in the subject line. Phone us at or toll-free within Canada and the United States at

17 Fee Information You must pay a non-refundable application fee to begin the application process. If you are eligible for a certificate, you will also need to pay your annual fee to receive your certificate. Non-refundable application fee Please include your payment of $245 with your application form. We cannot create a file for you until the application fee is paid. Annual fee If you qualify for a certificate, we will notify you in writing to tell you how much you will need to pay for the first year of your annual fee. This amount is based on the date we issue your certificate. Certificates issued June 1 November 30 $ 80 Certificates issued December 1 March Certificates issued April 1 May * * Includes $40 pro-rated fee for the remainder of the current school year plus the full $80 annual fee for the following school year. Payment options You can pay by personal cheque, money order or bank draft payable to the Minister of Finance and send it to the Teacher Regulation Branch of the Ministry of Education. You can also pay by Visa, MasterCard or American Express by completing the credit card authorization portion on page 1 of the Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate form. Keep your BC certificate valid Once you receive your BC teaching certificate, it is important to pay your annual fee and keep your certificate valid, even if you are not teaching in BC. The annual fee is due by May 31 each year. If you do not pay this fee, your certificate will be cancelled for non-payment of fees and you will need to reapply. We will complete a new evaluation based on the requirements at that time. 17

18 Independent School Teacher Conduct & Competence Standards april 2013 Introduction Pursuant to section 30 of the Teachers Act, the Director of Certification may issue an independent school teaching certificate to a person who meets the certification requirements and the independent school teaching certificate standards. These standards apply to holders of system restricted, subject restricted, and school and subject restricted certificates, which account for less than four percent of the total number of BC Ministry of Education certificates issued. As per section 5 of the Independent School Act, the Independent School Teaching Certificate Standards Committee (ISTCSC) is charged with establishing these standards. It should be noted that independent schools and their communities may have developed particular codes and standards of conduct that serve their particular faith, educational philosophy or community standards. Breach of such local community standards may not be a breach of the standards of conduct and competence for independent school teaching certificate holders. The Purpose and Meaning of the Standards in Practice Standards are not detailed descriptors of teaching competency or conduct but are specific statements of principle. Standards should be succinct and convey to the reader an overall sense of the work that educators do (competencies) and the ways in which they behave (conduct). The Standards are intended to honour and advance the work of educators by highlighting the complex and varied nature of their work. They articulate the knowledge, skills and attitudes that educators shall possess as well as the responsibilities that accrue to them as certificate holders who hold the public trust. In doing so, the Standards contribute to a safe and high-quality learning environment for students and provide a basis for attaining and assessing both competency and conduct. Taken together, the Standards define the attributes and expertise that educators employ for the benefit of children and society. Educators who embody these Standards must be able to relate intellectually, pedagogically and ethically with children. Standards are a way of communicating to certificate holders and the public the description of the work of educators what they know, what they are able to do, and how Definitions: aboriginal includes all Aboriginal peoples, especially First Nations, Inuit & Métis authority a society incorporated under the Society Act, or a corporation incorporated under the Business Corporations Act or a private Act, or a person designated, by regulation, as an authority that operates or intends to operate an independent school community all those in the local area and those served by the independent school competence having the knowledge & skills to carry out the duties of an educator conduct the actions or omissions of an educator including such actions or omissions both within and outside of an educator s professional role they conduct themselves as they serve the public. The Standards provide the foundation and stability on which educators can grow, articulating both the values and characteristics that distinguish the work of educators. The Standards have the following applications: Establish commonly held standards of practice and conduct that guide the teaching practice and ongoing professional growth, Communicate to the public the standards that educators hold, and Establish a framework that guides the ISTCSC and the Ministry of Education in setting requirements and making decisions related to the certification of applicants, fitness to practice and discipline. Commitment to the Standards These standards are intended to be a positive force for independent school educators that will honour their work and benefit the children and people of BC through supporting student academic success and social development and by developing an informed citizenry. As new educators become certified to teach in BC, they will be required to sign a commitment that their practice will be governed by the ethics and principles as outlined in the Standards. By agreeing to abide by these Standards, an educator makes a commitment to the public whereby parents can confidently send their children into an educator s care. educator certified teacher as defined by the Independent School Act minor child or youth under the age of 19 parent (in respect of a student or of a child): the guardian of the person of the student or child the person legally entitled to custody of the student or child the person who usually has the care and control of the student or child student a person enrolled in a K-12 education program provided by an independent school authority or a band operating an independent school and for whom an educator has responsibility

19 Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch W. Broadway Vancouver, BC V6J 1Z6 Canada t toll free f bcteacherregulation.ca 11. Educators value and care for all students and act in their best interests. Educators are responsible for fostering the social, emotional, intellectual, and vocational development of students. Educators are responsible for the emotional and physical safety of students. Educators treat students with respect and dignity. Educators respect the diversity in their classrooms, schools and communities. Educators have a privileged position of power and trust. They respect confidentiality unless disclosure is required by law. Educators do not abuse or exploit students or minors for personal, sexual, ideological, material or other advantage. 22. Educators are role models who act ethically and honestly. Educators act with integrity, maintaining the dignity and credibility of the profession. They understand that an individual educator s conduct contributes to the perception of the profession as a whole. Educators are accountable for their conduct while on duty, as well as off duty, where that conduct has an effect on the education system. Educators have an understanding of the diversity within the education system in BC and the law as it relates to their duties. 33. Educators understand and apply knowledge of student growth and development. Educators are knowledgeable about how children develop as learners and as social beings, and demonstrate an understanding of individual learning differences and special needs. This knowledge is used to assist educators in making decisions about curriculum, instruction, assessment and classroom management. 44. Educators value the involvement and support of parents, guardians, families and communities in schools. Educators understand, respect and support the role of parents as primary educators and the role of the community in the education of students. Educators communicate effectively and in a timely manner with parents and consider their advice on matters pertaining to their children. 55. Educators implement effective practices in areas of classroom management, planning, instruction, assessment, evaluation and reporting. Educators have the knowledge and skills to facilitate learning for all students and know when to seek additional support for their practice. Educators thoughtfully consider all aspects of teaching, from planning through reporting, and understand the relationships among them. Educators employ a variety of instructional and assessment strategies. 66. Educators have a broad knowledge base and understand the subject areas they teach. Educators understand the curricular, conceptual and methodological foundations of education and of the subject areas they teach. Educators must be able to communicate effectively in English or French. Educators teach students to understand relevant curricula in a Canadian, Aboriginal, and global context. Educators convey the values, beliefs and knowledge of our democratic society. 77. Educators engage in career-long learning. Educators engage in professional development and reflective practice, understanding that a hallmark of professionalism is the concept of professional growth over time. Educators develop and refine personal philosophies of education, teaching and learning that are informed by theory and practice. Educators identify their professional needs and work to meet those needs individually and collaboratively. 88. Educators contribute to the profession. Educators support, mentor or encourage other educators and those preparing to enter the profession. Educators contribute their expertise to activities offered by their schools, districts, independent school authorities, professional organizations, post-secondary institutions or contribute in other ways. p r i n t e d i n c a n a da

20 Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate PLEASE MAIL THIS FORM (ORIGINAL SIGNATURE IS REQUIRED) File # (if assigned): M F Title (Mr., Ms., etc.) Date of Birth (YYYYMMDD) Gender Given Names Surname Used Given Name Birth Surname Other Previous Surname Street Address/P.O. Box City/Town Province/State Country Postal Code/Zip Code Primary Address Home Phone Number Mobile Phone Number (include area code) Secondary Address Work Phone Number (include area code) Please indicate how you would like to receive updates about the status of your application. Note that if you do not specify, we will updates to you using your primary address. Mail Have you been hired by an Independent (non-public) School? Independent School Name City/Town Fulltime Parttime On Call Start Date (YYYYMMDD) I am applying for a restricted certificate in: (Note: you must indicate which type of restricted certificate you are applying for select one only) Waldorf Montessori School & Subject 1 School & Subject 2 If you are applying for a Subject Restricted Certificate, you must indicate the subject(s) in the space provided to the right. FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Subject Fee Enclosed: Yes No

21 Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate Page 2 ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS Secondary Education: Name of Diploma or Certificate Location Year Completed Y E A R Undergraduate Degree: Name of Degree Year Completed Y E A R Name of Institution Location Teacher Education: Name of Degree Year and Month Completed (YYYYMM) Y E A R M M Was any part of your teacher education program completed by distance education or online education? Yes No Graduate Degree: Name of Degree Year Name of Institution and Location All other Post-Secondary Institutions you have attended: 1. Name of Institution and Location Year 2. Name of Institution and Location Year 3. Name of Institution and Location Year Please ensure that the above institution(s) will send the Branch an official transcript. Official transcripts are also required from all other post-secondary institutions attended even if the credit has been transferred to another institution. We do not accept transcripts from applicants. Please list all jurisdictions where you hold, or have held, valid teaching certification EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE: (Begin with most recent; label T for teaching experience, E for other educational work, P for practica, and N for not related to teaching.) L a b e l Dates Location (School or Employer, City, Country) Grades and Subject(s) Taught (or description of employment)

22 Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate Page 3 PERSONAL INFORMATION All questions in this section must be answered. For every affirmative answer (yes), please attach a detailed written explanation, including dates and locations, and supporting documents if applicable. Yes No 1. Have you ever applied anywhere for authorization and/or certification to teach and had your application rejected? Yes No 2. Have you ever for any reason other than failure to pay fees voluntarily surrendered your authorization and/or certification to teach? Yes No 3. Have you ever, in advance of an investigation or disciplinary proceeding, either voluntarily or involuntarily restricted your teaching practice? Yes No 4. Have you ever been disciplined by an employing school district or independent authority, a university (as a student), or other educational organization? Yes No 5. Have you ever been found guilty of professional misconduct or been found to be incompetent or incapacitated as a member of the teaching or other profession? Yes No 6. Have you ever agreed to a settlement or a resignation to avoid any proceeding or disciplinary action with respect to your professional conduct, competence or capacity? Yes No 7. Has there ever been, or is there now, an investigation or proceeding in regards to your professional conduct, competence or capacity as an educator in another jurisdiction, or as a member of another profession? Yes No 8. Have you ever failed or voluntarily withdrawn from a teacher education program or from a practicum? Yes No 9. Have you ever been asked by a Faculty of Education to withdraw from a teacher education program or practicum? Yes No 10. Do you have any medical (physical or mental) condition that could affect your fitness to teach? Yes No 11. Have you ever been charged (including stays of proceeding), convicted of or given an absolute or conditional discharge or received a pardon or record suspension on a criminal offence? Yes No 12. Are there any outstanding criminal charges against you? Yes No 13. Has there ever been a peace bond or restraining order issued against you? Yes No 14. Are you currently the subject of a criminal investigation? Yes No

23 Application for an Independent School Teaching Certificate Page 4 DECLARATION OF PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENT I certify that all information given on this application is true, correct and complete to the best of my knowledge. I authorize any person, government, educational institution, police force, military authority, governing body or other organization enquired of under this authorization to provide the Teacher Regulation Branch all relevant information or documents requested by the Branch. I accept the responsibility for advising the Teacher Regulation Branch, in writing, of any change to any information contained in this application. I understand that if my suitability to teach is in question, the Director of Certification may conduct an investigation into my application. I understand that any information related to my conduct that occurred before my certificate was issued may be reviewed by the Director of Certification and my certificate may be rescinded based on this information. I understand that information related to my certification status may be shared with employers and education authorities and provided to the public on the online registry as per section 80 of the Teachers Act. I have read and I understand the Standards for the Education, Competence and Professional Conduct of Educators in British Columbia and/or the Independent School Teacher Conduct and Competence Standards. I solemnly declare that I shall uphold these standards in my professional practice. Applicant Signature Date Printed Name CERTIFICATE HOLDER RESEARCH REGISTER From time to time, the Teacher Regulation Branch receives requests from researchers to survey certificate holders or to invite them to participate in research projects. The Branch has established a research register for those certificate holders who would be willing to be contacted for the purpose of research. All contact is between the Branch and the certificate holder. Researchers are not permitted to contact certificate holders directly. In the event that we contact you about participating in a research project, you will have an opportunity to opt in or out at that time there is no obligation on your part to continue if you choose not to. If you are willing to put your name on the registry, please check the box below. I hereby agree to make my name available to the Teacher Regulation Branch for the purpose of research. SUBMISSION OF AN APPLICATION THAT IS MISLEADING OR FALSE IN WHOLE OR IN PART MAY LEAD TO DENIAL OF CERTIFICATION OR DISCIPLINARY ACTION BY THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION. The information contained on this application form is collected under the authority of the Teachers Act and is necessary for certification purposes. The Ministry of Education may disclose some information in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Questions regarding the collection of this information should be directed to our office. May 2015 Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

24 Consent to a Criminal Record Check For working with children and/or vulnerable adults Schedule Type: B APPLICANT TO/CERTIFICATE HOLDER WITH MINISTRY OF EDUCATION Pursuant to the Criminal Records Review Act, all applicants to and certificate holders with the Ministry of Education must undergo a criminal record check, which includes a vulnerable sector check, every five years. The Teacher Regulation Branch of the Ministry of Education facilitates this requirement by collecting and submitting your consent to the Criminal Records Review Program of the Ministry of Justice who will perform the criminal record check. IMPORTANT: Please complete this form using a dark ink pen, printing clearly and carefully. There may be a delay in processing if the form is submitted incomplete or incorrectly, or if information cannot be read. When the form is completed and signed by you, please forward it to the Teacher Regulation Branch by mail, fax ( ), or as a scanned attachment ([email protected]). PART 1 APPLICANT/CERTIFICATE HOLDER INFORMATION File or Certificate Number (if assigned): Surname: Full First: Full Middle: Birth Date: Gender: Male Female Birth Place: (yyyy/mm/dd) (City, Province/State, Country) OTHER NAMES USED OR HAVE USED: (e.g. alias, maiden name, birth name, or previous married name) Surname: First: Middle: Surname: First: Middle: Surname: First: Middle: Mailing Address: City: Province: Country: Postal Code: Contact Phone: ( ) BC Driver s Licence Number: DL (Please leave blank if you don t have a BC Driver s Licence.) Address: PART 2 ORGANIZATION INFORMATION For Office Use Only Employer Name: Teacher Regulation Branch, Ministry of Education ID Number: 15/ Mailing Address: W Broadway City: Vancouver Province: BC Country: Canada Postal Code: V6J 1Z6 Office Phone: Fax: CONSENT FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I authorize the Ministry of Education to submit my information to the Criminal Records Review Program on an ongoing basis every 5 years. I understand that I may withdraw this consent at any time in the future and that the Teacher Regulation Branch of the Ministry of Education will notify me when my information is submitted. I have read and understand the Consent for Release of Information and Acknowledgements on the reverse. I hereby consent to the terms as indicated by my signature below. Signature: Date Signed: (yyyy/mm/dd) Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

25 Consent to a Criminal Record Check For working with children and/or vulnerable adults Page 2 CONSENT FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PURSUANT TO THE B.C. CRIMINAL RECORDS REVIEW ACT I hereby consent to a check for records of criminal charges and convictions to determine whether I have a conviction or outstanding charge for any relevant or specified offence(s) under the Criminal Records Review Act. I hereby consent to a check of all available law enforcement systems, including any local police records. I hereby consent to a vulnerable sector search* to check if I have been convicted of and been granted a pardon for any sexual offences of the Criminal Records Act. I understand a criminal record check under the Criminal Records Review Act is required at least once every five years. I hereby authorize the release to the Deputy Registrar any documents in the custody of the police, the court and crown counsel relating to an outstanding charge or conviction of any relevant or specified offence(s) as defined under the Criminal Records Review Act. Where the results of this check indicate that a criminal record or outstanding charge for a relevant or specified offence(s) may exist, I agree to provide my fingerprints to verify any such criminal record. The Deputy Registrar will notify me and my organization that I have an outstanding charge or conviction for any relevant or specified offence(s) and the matter has been referred to the Deputy Registrar; The Deputy Registrar will determine whether or not I present a risk of physical or sexual abuse to children and/or physical, sexual or financial abuse to vulnerable adults as applicable. The Deputy Registrar s determination will be disclosed to my organization and it will include consideration of any relevant or specified offence(s) for which I have received a pardon. If I am charged with or convicted of a relevant or specified offence(s) at any time subsequent to the criminal record check authorized herein, I further agree to report the charge or conviction to my organization and provide my organization, in a timely manner, with a new signed Consent to a Criminal Record Check form. * Go to the RCMP website for additional details on vulnerable sector checks: FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AND PROTECTION OF PRIVACY ACT (FOIPPA): The information requested on this form is collected under the authority of the Criminal Records Review Act section 4(1) and section 26(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPPA). The information provided will be used to fulfil the requirements of the Criminal Records Review Act for the release of criminal records information and is in compliance with the FOIPPA. If you have questions about the collection of your personal information, please contact the Policy Analyst, Criminal Records Review Program, PO Box 9217 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, BC V8W 9J1 or by phone at Visit the Criminal Records Review Program online at: May 2014 Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

26 Credit Card Payment Authorization Form Please use this form to authorize the use of a credit card for a fee payment. (Note: Certificate holders who are in default of paying the annual practice fee are subject to the addition of a $30 late fee if the fee is received between June 1 and June 30, and a $60 late fee if the fee is received between July 1 and October 31.) Applicant s/certificate Holder s name: File/Certificate #: Name of individual, agency or business as it appears on the credit card (please print): I authorize use of the credit card indicated to pay the fee(s) for the applicant/certificate holder named above. Total Payment Authorized $ Date (YYYY/MM/DD) In the event that we need to get in touch with you, please provide us with your contact information: Address: Home Phone: Work Phone: address: AUTHORIZATION FOR CREDIT CARD USE American Express Visa Master Card Card Number Expiry (MM/YY) / I authorize the Ministry to charge (Amount in CDN$) $ to the credit card number shown above. Printed name as it appears on credit card Cardholder s signature Please note: The credit card information provided on this form will not be retained. Upon authorization of the payment request, all credit card information will be destroyed. Credit card data should not be ed. Please fax to the Teacher Regulation Branch at or mail to the address below. The easiest and fastest way to pay your annual fee by credit card is by entering the secure Certificate Holders Area on our website. May 2015 Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

27 Confidential Character Reference for Authorization to Teach in British Columbia Page 1 Applicant, please complete this page. I, Full given names Applicant s legal surname Birth Surname: Date of Birth: YYYYMMDD Previous Surnames: Street Address/P.O. Box City/Town Province/State Country Postal Code/Zip Code hereby consent the following referee: (Please print referee s name) to provide the Ministry of Education with this confidential character reference as part of my application for authorization to teach in BC; and I acknowledge that this confidential character reference is not a teaching report. Date: Signature of Applicant: Notes: This two-page character reference form is to be provided by the applicant to a referee who shall complete page 2. The referee must not be a relative, partner or spouse (or equivalent) of the applicant and must have known the applicant for a minimum of two years. The referee must send the form directly to the Ministry of Education by mail, fax or scanned ([email protected]). This character reference will not be accepted as a teaching report. Delay in the receipt of this form will result in delay in the processing of the application. Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

28 Confidential Character Reference for Authorization to Teach in BC Page 2 Referee, please complete this page and send it directly to the Ministry of Education by mail, fax or scanned ([email protected]). Applicant s Name: 1. How long have you known this applicant? A referee must have known the applicant for a minimum of two years. 2. In what capacity have you known this applicant? A referee must not be a relative, partner or spouse (or equivalent) of the applicant. 3. Describe situation(s) in which you have observed the applicant working with children or youth. If you have not observed the applicant working with children or youth, what characteristics and/or qualities have you seen the applicant exhibiting that would be valuable in working with young people? 4. Explain why you consider the applicant to be a fit and proper person to be working with students. 5. Do you have any reason to believe the applicant should not be granted authorization to teach? No Yes. If Yes, please explain. Name of Referee: (Please print full name) To the best of my knowledge the above information is complete and correct. Signature of Referee: Date: Address: Telephone: (H) (W) Should the applicant, under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, request a copy of this reference, do you consent to its release? No Yes Delay in receipt of this form will result in delay in the processing of the application. This is a character reference only and may not be used as a teaching report or professional evaluation. Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

29 Confidential Character Reference for Authorization to Teach in British Columbia Page 1 Applicant, please complete this page. I, Full given names Applicant s legal surname Birth Surname: Date of Birth: YYYYMMDD Previous Surnames: Street Address/P.O. Box City/Town Province/State Country Postal Code/Zip Code hereby consent the following referee: (Please print referee s name) to provide the Ministry of Education with this confidential character reference as part of my application for authorization to teach in BC; and I acknowledge that this confidential character reference is not a teaching report. Date: Signature of Applicant: Notes: This two-page character reference form is to be provided by the applicant to a referee who shall complete page 2. The referee must not be a relative, partner or spouse (or equivalent) of the applicant and must have known the applicant for a minimum of two years. The referee must send the form directly to the Ministry of Education by mail, fax or scanned ([email protected]). This character reference will not be accepted as a teaching report. Delay in the receipt of this form will result in delay in the processing of the application. Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

30 Confidential Character Reference for Authorization to Teach in BC Page 2 Referee, please complete this page and send it directly to the Ministry of Education by mail, fax or scanned ([email protected]). Applicant s Name: 1. How long have you known this applicant? A referee must have known the applicant for a minimum of two years. 2. In what capacity have you known this applicant? A referee must not be a relative, partner or spouse (or equivalent) of the applicant. 3. Describe situation(s) in which you have observed the applicant working with children or youth. If you have not observed the applicant working with children or youth, what characteristics and/or qualities have you seen the applicant exhibiting that would be valuable in working with young people? 4. Explain why you consider the applicant to be a fit and proper person to be working with students. 5. Do you have any reason to believe the applicant should not be granted authorization to teach? No Yes. If Yes, please explain. Name of Referee: (Please print full name) To the best of my knowledge the above information is complete and correct. Signature of Referee: Date: Address: Telephone: (H) (W) Should the applicant, under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, request a copy of this reference, do you consent to its release? No Yes Delay in receipt of this form will result in delay in the processing of the application. This is a character reference only and may not be used as a teaching report or professional evaluation. Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile:

31 School Authority Form (School and Subject Restricted applications only) PLEASE MAIL THIS FORM (ORIGINAL SIGNATURE IS REQUIRED) File # (if known): AUTHORITY Authority Name School Name AUTHORITY INFORMATION CHAIRPERSON Title (Mr., Ms., Dr., Rev., Rabbi, etc.) Given Names Surname Street Address/P.O. Box City/Town Province/State Country Postal Code/Zip Code Addresses Home Phone Number Work Phone Number Mobile Phone Number (include area code) PERSON RECOMMENDED FOR THE POSITION Title (Mr. Ms., etc.) Given Names Surname Subject to be taught: School and Subject 1 School and Subject 2 Is this person presently employed or hired for a position in your BC independent school? No Yes, full-time Yes, part-time AUTHORITY DECLARATION I hereby declare the above information to be correct. Signature of Authority representative Date SUBMISSION OF AN APPLICATION THAT IS MISLEADING OR FALSE IN WHOLE OR IN PART MAY LEAD TO DENIAL OF CERTIFICATION OR DISCIPLINARY ACTION BY THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION. The information contained on this form is collected under the authority of the Teachers Act and is necessary for certification purposes. The Ministry of Education may disclose some information in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Questions regarding the collection of this information should be directed to our office. December 2013 Ministry of Education Teacher Regulation Branch Mailing Address: Telephone: West Broadway Toll Free: Vancouver BC V6J 1Z6 Facsimile: