Alternative Pathways to Licensure Supports

Shenandoah County Public Schools provides a comprehensive system of supports for educators pursuing licensure through alternative pathways. These supports extend beyond financial assistance and include mentoring, instructional coaching, professional learning opportunities, testing preparation resources, tuition assistance options, and release time for study and licensure-related activities.

The Alternative Pathways to Licensure Supports framework is designed to ensure that participants receive the guidance, resources, and professional support needed to successfully complete licensure requirements and thrive in the classroom.

Alternative Pathways to Licensure
Layers of Support

LAYERS OF SUPPORT 

For Alternative Pathways to Licensure

Layer 4 — Release Time & Networking

Layer 3 — Tuition Reimbursement, Coursework, & Testing Supports

Layer 2 — Targeted Professional Learning & Coaching

Layer 1 — Foundational Mentor Program Supports

Layer 1 •  Foundational Mentor Program Supports

  • New teacher orientation and professional learning
  • Assigned mentor for one-on-one support
  • Regular check-ins and reflection opportunities

Layer 2 •  Targeted Professional Learning & Coaching

  • Instructional coaching cycles that include scheduled meetings, co-planning, and/or feedback

Layer 3 •  Tuition Reimbursement, Coursework and Testing Supports 

  • 26-27 Reimbursement - Due in May
  • Praxis and VRA prep courses: access to online prep platforms or division-led study sessions. The administrator should reach out to Monica Hinegardner to set up this support.
  • Access to Praxis prep materials. The administrator should reach out to Monica Hinegardner for test prep materials.
  • Praxis reimbursement: up to $500 toward required testing costs for licensure

Layer 4 •  Release Time (to access this support, teachers should receive admin approval and complete a PD form and list Title II IMPACT Mentor Program as the funding source)

  • Two substitute days (may be used in half-day increments) for study, preparation, and/or Praxis completion; participants work from a designated school or the central office with access to quiet space, materials, and mentors/coaches

These Title II–supported layers are provided to educators on alternative pathways to licensure, in addition to the division’s standard mentor program supports.