Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher (ECCAT) Authorization
Summary of Requirements
Use this form to obtain or renew a temporary Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher (ECCAT) Authorization or obtain a permanent ECCAT Authorization. Temporary authorizations are valid for one (1) year. Permanent authorizations have no expiration date.
Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teacher (ECCAT) Authorizations may be issued to individuals hired and assigned to an ECCAT position in a WV public school or to those who have completed all requirements for a permanent authorization.
Applicant Requirements
You may be issued an ECCAT Authorization based on one of the following conditions.
You are hired and assigned as an ECCAT in the West Virginia public school system
You have completed all requirements for a permanent authorization.
Be physically, mentally, and emotionally qualified.
Hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
Employment and Recommendations
You must be employed to obtain a temporary ECCAT Authorization.
You must have an official recommendation from the County Director or Superintendent of the county you are employed by.
Permanent ECCAT Authorizations do not require employment.
Initial Application Requirements
If you are employed in the public school system, you must pass the current state competency exam for aides developed pursuant to W.Va. Code ยง18A-4-8e. If you are not employed in the public school system (for example, if you work for a community program), you may not need to take the competency exam. Check with your employer to confirm what they require.
Renewal Requirements
You must complete one specialized training after your previous authorization was awarded.
Permanent Requirements
Speak to your employer to help you determine your eligibility.
Literacy-Science of Reading, Numeracy, Child Development, and Special Needs Inclusion are the four (4) e-Learning courses required for permanent PK-3 ECCAT authorization.
English - completion of a college-level English course (100 level course or higher) may be substituted for Literacy.
Math - completion of a college-level Math course (100 level course or higher) may be substituted for Numeracy.
College courses must be on an official transcript.
If you have a valid CDA credential, completed the 4 semesters of ACDS, completed a Career Technical Education ECCAT program of study, or completed an approved Community & Technical College ECCAT program, you may be eligible for permanent ECCAT PK-3 authorization.
Fill in the applicant information and the Disclosure of Background Information.
Mail all supporting documentation to the Office of Certification:
West Virginia Department of Education Office of Certification Building 6, Suite 550 1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East Charleston, WV 25305-0330
If this is your initial application, you will receive an email with a code to make an appointment for a background check after your application has been received.