Approval Process for Traditional Certification Programs of Study
The Educator Preparation Program Review Board (EPPRB) is a seven-member board established by the WVBE. Among its many duties and responsibilities, the EPPRB is charged with reviewing all initially proposed programs in order to submit or withhold a recommendation for program approval to the WVBE. The EPPRB is also charged with reviewing all proposed substantive changes to existing WVBE-approved programs and submitting or withholding a recommendation for acceptance of such changes to the WVBE. Finally, the EPPRB reviews reports from accreditation boards to recommend institutions’ programs for continuing program approval.
Guide for New Program Proposals
Guide for Proposing Revisions to Existing WVBE-Approved Programs
Programs must be reviewed and approved in accordance with WVBE Policies 5202 and 5100.
EPPRB Calendar
2023 EPPRB Dates
| Date: | Description |
| January 9, 2023 | Letter of intent to submit a program proposal for review, due to the WVDE. Letters of intent may be submitted via e-mail to Jodi Oliveto at joliveto@k12.wv.us. |
| February 8, 2023 | Submission of the program proposal, due to the WVDE. For information, please contact Jodi Oliveto at joliveto@k12.wv.us. |
| March 8, 2023 | EPPRB Meeting |
| May 2023 | If recommended, the program will be presented to the WVBE and considered for approval. |
| August 11, 2023 | Letter of intent to submit a program proposal for review, due to the WVDE. Letters of intent may be submitted via e-mail to Traci Tuttle at traci.tuttle@k12.wv.us. |
| September 11, 2023 | Submission of the program proposal, due to the WVDE. For information, please contact Traci Tuttle at jtraci.tuttle@k12.wv.us. |
| October 11, 2023 | EPPRB Meeting |
| December 2023 | If recommended, the program will be presented to the WVBE and considered for approval. |
Additional Resources:
Approval Process for Alternative Certification Programs of Study
WVBE Policy 5901 creates an alternative pathway means for a qualified person to earn a professional teaching certificate in areas of critical need and shortage. Program proposals must first be reviewed by the Alternative Certification Educator Preparation Program Review Board (ACEPPRB) in accordance with the timelines listed below for a recommendation to be made to the WVBE. Once an alternative certification program receives WVBE approval, school districts may begin program enrollment. Candidates must receive an Alternative Teaching Certificate to enroll into a state-approved program. Participants work to successfully complete the program and meet conversion criteria for a Provisional Teaching Certificate. As they continue to teach in West Virginia and engage in professional learning, the individuals work toward meeting the conversion criteria of a Professional Teaching Certificate. Interested applicants, please visit the WV K-12 Education Job Bank and contact your county of interest directly. School districts interested in program guidance or information please contact Robert Mellace at rmellace@k12.wv.us in the Office of Educator Development & Support.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Document
- Program Proposal Template (General Education or Special Education Program)
- Addendum for the Addition of a General Education Program Endorsement (General Education Program Only)
- Program Revision Proposal Document (General Education or Special Education Program)
ACEPPRB Timelines:
Spring 2023
| March 1, 2023 | ACEPPRB Meeting |
| April 2023 | If recommended, the program will be presented to the WVBE and considered for approval. |
Summer 2023
| March 21, 2023 | Letter of intent to submit a program proposal for review, due to the WVDE. Letters of intent may be submitted via e-mail to Robert Mellace at rmellace@k12.wv.us |
| April 21, 2023 | Submission of program proposal, due to the WVDE. For information, please contact Robert Mellace at rmellace@k12.wv.us |
| June 8, 2023 | ACEPPRB Meeting |
| July 12, 2023 | If recommended, the program will be presented to the WVBE and considered for approval. |
Fall 2023
| July 1, 2023 | Letter of intent to submit a program proposal for review, due to the WVDE. Letters of intent may be submitted via e-mail to Robert Mellace at rmellace@k12.wv.us |
| August 1, 2023 | Submission of program proposal, due to the WVDE. For information, please contact Robert Mellace at rmellace@k12.wv.us |
| September, 2023 on a date to be determined | ACEPPRB Meeting |
| October 11, 2023 | If recommended, the program will be presented to the WVBE and considered for approval. |