The Career Technical Education (CTE) Teacher Certification Program helps industry professionals earn their teaching certification, allowing them to teach in the West Virginia public education system. By completing the steps outlined below, you will become eligible to receive your certification and begin your journey as a certified CTE educator.
Candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements prior to earning a CTE Certificate.
Step 1: Meet Industry Qualification
Meet the specific requirements established for the endorsement area, including holding a valid, current industry credential and/or meeting required assessment guidelines.
Step 2: Verify Industry Experience
Document a minimum of two years of relevant experience in the endorsement area. Experience types may be combined to meet the requirement and may include:
Industry experience in the endorsement field.
Teaching experience in the endorsement area (while properly certified).
Relevant post-secondary coursework in the endorsement area. When this option is used, a bachelor’s degree is required.
Step 3: Complete an Educator Preparation Program
Successfully complete an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP). We offer an EPP designed to support individuals transitioning from industry into teaching. This program provides a structured pathway for candidates to earn a CTE Certificate through a combination of pedagogical training, supervised practice, and a portfolio.
Step 4: Pass an Instructional Assessment
Pass an approved pedagogy assessment (e.g., PLT or approved equivalent to be determined by the Office of Certification). If you have already passed an approved pedagogy assessment, you are not required to retake it.
You must have verification of industry experience, which is completed at the district level. If you are not currently seeking CTE employment, industry experience and supporting documentation may be verified by any West Virginia county school district for certification purposes. No candidate may be assigned to a classroom in a CTE endorsement area without approved documentation and issuance of the required Department permit.