WSU: Regional Center for Emergency License Holders

Are you a Western Massachusetts educator teaching on emergency licensure and don't know what to do next?

Don't worry, we've got you covered! Westfield State University serves as a Regional Center providing essential support to emergency license holders within Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire County public school districts. Additionally, our partner MCLA will primarily be serving Berkshire County, ensuring comprehensive assistance for all emergency license holders in the region.

Our mission is to guide and assist educators in transitioning from emergency licenses to provisional or initial licenses, ensuring stability and excellence in our educational system.

Take the next step and start your journey today!

Complete the intake survey for emergency licensure holders.

Intake Survey

We felt it was really important to support emergency licenses in particular. The population of those who hold emergency licenses is much more diverse than the population being currently drawn into traditional programs, so it’s an opportunity for Westfield State to be a leader in this area. This is about community support.

Dr. Megan Kennedy, Ph.D.

Explore Our Licensure Programs

For individuals teaching under emergency licensure in Massachusetts, WSU provides two pathways to initial licensure: our post-baccalaureate teacher licensure program and our initial Master of Education programs. It is advisable for candidates to consult directly with our education department for guidance on selecting the most suitable path, considering their undergraduate coursework and any prerequisites required for the initial licensure M.Ed.

We prioritize working closely with students to streamline the licensure process, offering personalized advising to tailor the experience based on their previous coursework.

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Post-baccalaureate Programs

Our non-degree-bearing post-baccalaureate teacher licensure programs enable students to fulfill any missing coursework and practicum requirements for initial licensure in Massachusetts. We offer the following post-baccalaureate programs: art, early childhood, elementary, moderate disabilities, music, and physical education, as well as middle and/or secondary English, biology, history, and mathematics.

Post-baccalaureate Programs

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Master of Education Programs

Our Master of Education programs offer the opportunity to complete graduate coursework and practicum requirements for initial licensure in Massachusetts while earning a Master of Education degree. These programs cover early childhood, elementary, moderate disabilities, middle and/or secondary English, biology, history, and mathematics.

Master of Education Programs

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FAQ’s Licensure Support

Below is a list of the most frequently asked questions related to advancing, extending, or renewing your license. Please note that additional information can be found on the DESE website by visiting: Emergency Licenses - Office of Educator Licensure.

How can I contact DESE with specific questions about my current license(s)?

For answers to more in-depth applicant questions and concerns you can call the Customer Service Call Center at 781-338-6600 (M–F 9:00am - 1:00pm; 2:00pm – 5:00pm). For a complete and accurate evaluation of the license requirements you need to meet, submit a license application to the Office of Educator Licensure.

How do I renew an existing Emergency License?

Old Emergency License: In ELAR, individuals with an Emergency license can apply for an Emergency Extension (first extension) or an Emergency Extension II (2 nd extension). The final date that these old Emergency Licenses will be valid is June 30, 2025.

Cost for each extension is $25.
Someone with an EEII (Extension II) is not eligible for an additional extension. Must move to provisional or initial license.
Extensions will be granted as the individual is making progress since obtaining the Emergency license towards obtaining a license.

New Emergency License: The "new" Emergency license are licenses were issued between May 26, 2022 and November 7, 2023 and are valid for one calendar year from the date of issuance (i.e. May 26, 2023 and November 7, 2024).

These Emergency licenses can be extended up to two times, each for a period of 12 months.
Cost for each extension is $25.
Extensions will be granted as the individual is making progress since obtaining the Emergency license towards obtaining a license.

More specific information can be found here: Emergency Licensure Renewal Overview.

Which MTELs do I need to take to move from an Emergency to Initial License?

The links below provide general information on the MTEL tests that are currently offered to meet the subject matter test requirement for each license. Additional requirements for a license, such as passing the Communication and Literacy Skills test or an approved alternative as part of the regulatory pilot, may need to be met.

General Information: Subject Matter Test Requirements - Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL)

Are there vouchers available for MTEL Tests?

Yes. Westfield State and MCLA have vouchers available for MTEL tests.

Are there resources or courses available to prepare for the MTELs?

Yes. There are a variety of resources and courses available to you including:

Free Practice Tests

Practice Tests

MTEL Test Information Guides

MTEL Test Information Guides

Test Preparation Courses and Materials List - Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL)

Does any of the teaching I’ve been doing on my Emergency License count toward coursework for a pathway to a provisional or initial license?

Prior coursework and teaching experience (pending a transcript review and enrollment) could potentially waive some coursework and/or a field placement.

Which Ed Prep Program should I enroll in to obtain a provisional or initial teaching license? Which courses should I take?

A transcript review is required prior to advising. Once you contact the Regional Center and/or enroll in a program where you will meet with an advisor who will discuss the most efficient pathway to licensure that meets your individual needs.

Can I complete the student teaching practicum while working in my current role?

Yes, as long as your current assignment matches the license you are pursuing.

Could I complete my practicum by the end of the 2024 school year?

No. A student teaching practicum is a full-time, full semester placement.

I’m not sure what the next steps should be or how to get started. Are there personalized supports to assist me in planning my next steps towards licensure?

Yes. From guidance in accessing the MTEL and personalized preparation sessions to navigating the licensure process, our support ensures you're equipped for success.

MTEL support, including registration guidance and information on alternative arrangements and assessments.
MTEL preparation, providing resources and sessions.
Tailored support in navigating and managing the licensure process.
Regular check-ins and personalized communication to support each candidate.
Wraparound services, including childcare provision when necessary, to ensure emergency license holders receive assistance aligned with their individual circumstances.
Personalized support and guidance provided to address the unique needs of each candidate.

How do I enroll in an Educator Preparation Program?

Our mission is to guide and assist educators in transitioning from emergency licenses to provisional or initial licenses, ensuring stability and excellence in our educational system.

Westfield State University

WesternMassRegionalCenter@westfield.ma.edu

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

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