From the panhandle to the tip of the Florida Keys, Florida's diversity spans both geography and demography. Likewise, Florida's 72 school districts reflect dramatic variety throughout the state. The diverse spectrum extends from remote agrarian communities where all directions begin from the stop sign at the one crossroad to densely populated metropolitan areas where languages from more than 50 different cultures can be heard throughout the school system. The varied resources and priorities of Florida's school districts mirror this stunning contrast.
To recognize and accommodate the diverse needs and characteristics of Florida's school districts, Florida's Alternative Certification Program offers flexibility within a sound educational structure. Each school district determines how to adapt the program to its own unique character. Some school districts may pool resources to co-implement the program as a consortium. Other districts may invite institutions of higher education to assist as collaborative partners. In school districts where the need to attract additional teachers is urgent and constant, the school board may decide to offer the on-the-job professional training program as a recruitment tool by incurring 100% of the implementation costs. School districts where the number of instructional staff is smaller and more stable, and where recruits from other professions are hired only occasionally, may collect all program costs from the participating teachers.
To help school districts identify key personnel, organize appropriate training, align implementation procedures with local policies, and determine program costs, a District Implementation Guide is provided. The District Implementation Guide directs school personnel who will coordinate Florida's Alternative Certification Program to key topics that are essential to effective results. These topics include:
- Initial Planning Steps
- Implementation Procedures
- Data Collection for Evaluation and Improvement
- Roles of Alternative Certification Program Personnel
- Explanation of Program Components
- Program Schedule and Process
- Program Completion
By offering Florida's Alternative Certification Program, Florida school districts invest in the future success of their students. With thoughtful planning, appropriate preparation, and enthusiastic implementation, our school districts can expect to reap the rewards of well-prepared teachers, long-term teacher retention, professional growth for accomplished educators, and - most important of all - enhanced student achievement.
If you would like to review the text books used in the alternative certification program, click here.
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