The Region 12 Teacher Preparation and Certification Program is accepting applications. The alternative certification program provides an opportunity for individuals with a bachelor's degree to obtain a Texas teaching certificate, even if they do not have a degree in education.

In addition, individuals who have a degree in education but do not have teaching certification in Texas may obtain a valid Texas certification through the program.

The program is offered in Nolanville and Waco, with class cycles to begin Sept. 1 and Feb. 1, 2010. Participants will attend three evening classes during the week and two scheduled Saturdays. Upon completion of three months of instruction, participants can intern with local school districts for the following school year.

The program offers certification training in elementary education (early childhood through grade six), intermediate education (grades four through eight), secondary composite science, secondary composite social studies, secondary content areas, generic special education, elementary and intermediate bilingual education, and English as a Second Language education.

A $75 non-refundable application fee is required to establish eligibility for the program. Qualifications for each specialization vary, but all participants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a grade-point average of 2.5 or above, or pass the PACT test prior to acceptance in the program. Further, a minimum score of 230 in math, 250 in reading and 220 in the writing sections of the Texas Higher Education assessment also is required, or Texas State Initiative exempt or completed.

For more information or directions to ESC Region 12 offices, call (254) 297-1191 in Waco or (254) 698-2243 in Nolanville. Applications may be submitted to either office.

Education Service Center Region 12 provides professional training and technical assistance for the purpose of improving student performance. Based in Waco with offices in Corsicana, Hamilton, Hillsboro, Nolanville and Teague, the ESC Region 12 service area includes Bell, Bosque, Coryell, Falls, Freestone, Hamilton, Hill, Lampasas, Limestone, Mills, McLennan and Navarro counties.