The Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP) is a State Board of Educator Certification approved alternative route to teacher certification coordinated by Education Service Center, Region 20. Alternative routes to certification in Texas were authorized in 1984 by the 68th Legislature in House Bill 72. TOPP began providing services in 1986 and maintains a high reputation.
 
The mission of the Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program is to prepare qualified individuals for a successful career as a professional educator in the 21st century by providing research-based learning experiences. Individuals who meet specific requirements may be eligible to pursue certification in one of the following areas:
 
EC-Grade 6 Generalist
EC-Grade 6 Bilingual Generalist
Grades 4-8 Generalist

Grades 4-8 Bilingual Generalist
Grades 4-8 Dual Subject (Language Arts/Social Studies and Math/Science)
Grades 4-8, 8-12 Single Subject (Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, English Language Arts, Reading, Technology Applications)
Grades 8-12 Single Subject (Computer Science, Speech, Journalism, Physical Science/Mathematics/Engineering, and Dance)
Languages other than English (LOTE)(Spanish, French, German, Latin and Russian and Japanese)

Business Education, Family and Consumer Science, and Technology Education
Generic Special Education EC-12
Grades EC-12 (Physical Education, Art, Music, Health, Theatre Arts, Technology Applications)
 
Other certification areas will be considered, based on applicant qualifications and personnel vacancies in public, charter, and TEA approved private schools in the region.
 
The program is field-based and concentrates on integrating theory with practice. It includes:
 
Three online book studies facilitated by practicing educators
Classroom Field Experience
Content preparation and professional development sessions (evenings, Saturdays, and two consecutive weeks daily during the summer prior to internship)
One-year paid internship at a participating public school district, charter school, or TEA approved private school
Professional development assignments
Classroom support and feedback opportunities