Re: Transfering certification

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I recvieved my teaching lisence in Texas as well. My initial
certification was in EC-4 (generalist) after graduating in
2008 from TAMUCC. After this I took the exams for 4-8
(generalist) and ESL (EC-4) and was granted certifaction in
both areas. When I moved to Kansas in 2010, I submitted
transcripts from TAMUCC along with the application (and
fees). Though the fingerprinting is a national database, each
state has their own fingerprinting process and requires that
it be redone. Kansas issued me a B-3 initial lisence but
dropped off 4th grade because it was not within the area they
offer. They also dropped my 4-8 lisence because the 4-6
grades in Kansas require that you complete a degree program.
They also limited my ESL endoresment to "pull out" only. When
I looked into what classes I would need to regain my 4-8
endorsement I was told that it would require completing a
whole new program at a college/university in Kansas. Also, an
initial lisence is only valid for two years. Though it is
renewable, you have to complete a year long mentoring program
and apply for your professional lisence within 4 years (Unlike
Texas where it is valid for 5 years and remains the same type
of endoresement).

My advise: If you have to move . . .stick to Texas. I wish I
had never left. If you can't avoid an out-of- state move
contact the Department of Education in the new state and begin
the process as early as possible. Just don't expect it to be
easy OR inexpensive. States are using this relocation as a
means to draw revenue.

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