ACE Overview and Mission

Educator preparation programs such as alternative certification programs began in the mid-1980’s as one way of minimizing the teacher shortage that was occurring across the nation.

In Texas, there are many factors that contributed to this shortage including a rising population growth, low recruitment and retention of teachers in the state’s educational system, and the large number of teachers retiring each year.

The term “alternative teacher certification” has been used to refer to non-traditional avenues to become licensed to teach.  (Traditional methods have included an associate’s degree leading to a four-year college or an undergraduate degree plan at a four-year university.)

The State Board of Educator Certification (SBEC) approved the Alternative Certification Program at Tyler Junior College.  The Board is guided by the philosophy that educators will create higher standards for preparation, practice, and conduct than others outside the profession, and that educators will rigorously uphold these standards. TJC is pleased to begin its first cohort of ACE students in February 2003.

The highlights of the Accelerated Certification for Educators include:

Early Childhood and Secondary level Texas teacher certifications in: 

• Bilingual Education
• ESL
• Generalist
• Life Science
• Math
• Physical Science
• Science
• Special Education

Comprehensive and fast-tracked curriculums:

• Cohort-based training
• Convenient location
• Small class sizes
• Variety of training schedules
• Student advising services
• Mentoring program with master teachers
  
  

Mission

The Accelerated Certification for Educators at Tyler  Junior College is dedicated to:

• preparing individuals seeking Texas state teacher certification.
• engaging in all students an understanding of teaching and its role in education.
• offering high quality instruction, training and mentorship to ACE students.
• serving the education community as a resource and initiative for collaboration between the ACE program, students, Region VII area schools including independent school districts, charter, private and parochial
• introducing the community to the Accelerated Certification for Educators  at TJC.

Information on web site may be subject to change without prior written notice.