Education Service Center Region 12 is accepting applications for its alternative certification program. With two locations in Nolanville and Waco, classes are scheduled to begin Feb. 1 and September 2010.

The program is open to those with a bachelor’s degree interested in obtaining a Texas teaching certificate, even if they do not have a degree in education. Additionally, individuals who have a degree in education, but do not have teaching certification in Texas, may obtain a valid certification through the program or obtain preparation in other subject areas.

The program offers certification preparation in several areas, including elementary and intermediate, secondary composite science and social studies, secondary content areas, generic special education, elementary and intermediate bilingual and English as a Second Language.

Participants will attend three evening classes during the week from 5:30-9:30 p.m., including two scheduled Saturday sessions.

After completing the four months of classes, participants may intern within school districts in the following school year and be eligible to receive pay as a firstyear teacher.

A $75 non-refundable application fee is required to establish eligibility upon entering the program.

For individuals wishing to pursue a future career as an educator, ESC Region 12’s alternative certification program will help prepare them to obtain teaching certification.

Additionally, those who register for classes beginning in Feb. 1 can be certified to teach beginning in the Fall 2010.

Qualifications for each specialization area vary. Applications may be submitted in person to either the Nolanville or the Waco offices.

For more information or directions, call (254) 297-1191 (Waco) or (254) 698-2243 (Nolanville), or visit www.esc12.net/teacherprep.