Schoolcraft program code #PAC.0P313/PAC.00313
This program requires students to complete a specific list of requirements before being officially admitted into the program. Students are listed in a pre-program code while the application requirements are being met. Requirements are listed online at the Alternative Route to Interim Teacher Certification - Academics - Schoolcraft College or the Education - Elementary Education Alternative Route to Teacher Certification (PK-3, PK-6, and K-5) Program Application Information catalog page. Contact the Alternative Route to Teacher Certification department at arc@schoolcraft.edu for additional information.
The Alternative Route to Interim Teacher Certification (ARC) Program is a Michigan Department of Education-approved teacher preparation program allowing individuals to obtain initial certification in specific grade bands for elementary education or add endorsements to a current teaching certificate.
A Lower Elementary Education (PK-3) Interim Teaching Certificate (ITC) is earned upon completion of pre-certification coursework, CPR/First Aid certification, passing of appropriate MTTC, and successful background check. The ITC enables program participants to work as certified elementary classroom teachers in Michigan’s public, charter, and parochial classrooms. Upon completion of 3 years of successful teaching under the ITC, instructional support from Schoolcraft College (peer mentoring and instructional coaching), and meeting additional program requirements a Standard Teaching Certificate is earned.
Certification is available in the following areas:
- Elementary Education (Lower Elementary Education PK-3)
New cohorts of the ARC program begin each year in the fall, winter, and spring/summer semesters. ARC teacher candidates will complete the pre-certification courses in either one or two consecutive semesters. The pre-certification courses are offered remotely in the evenings.
Students enrolled in the Alternative Route for Interim Teacher Certification Program will be required to maintain an overall 3.0 GPA, with no individual course grade lower than 3.0, and complete all program requirements within five years.
The ARC program also recognizes the value of prior teaching experience. Applicants who are not currently working in a K-12 classroom are encouraged to spend time in classrooms as a substitute teacher or a volunteer, to become better acquainted with their content area and the classroom environments.
The requirements for admission to an Alternative Route Program are:
- Bachelor’s or graduate degree from an accredited college or university
- Minimum grade point average of 3.0 (4.0 point scale)
- Pass the applicable MTTC Subject Area Test(s)
- Pass the criminal background check (Fingerprinting may also be required by some school districts for fieldwork)
- Demonstrate the social, emotional, and professional behaviors consistent with those of professional educators
The Michigan Interim Teaching Certificate is recognized only while working under the supervision of the ARC program.
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