Applications for the 2008-2009 teaching cycle are currently being accepted. Specific entry requirements and updated program application deadlines can be found under the 2008-2009 tab. Deadline May 9, 2008.
Application Deadlines for 2009-2010 program cycle are:
Fall: Friday, August 15, 2008 Early Spring: Friday, December 5, 2008 Late Spring: Friday, January 9, 2009
The Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP) is a State Board of Educator Certification approved alternative teacher certification program coordinated by EducationServiceCenter, Region 20. Alternative certification programs 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 4 Generalist
EC-Grade 4 Bilingual Generalist
Grades 4-8 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)
Grades 6-12 Foreign Languages (Spanish, French, German, Latin and Russian), Business Education, Family and Consumer Science, and Technology Education
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 observations
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
Note: TOPP reserves the right to make program and/or acceptance requirement changes necessary to meet State requirements.
Documents indicated with the Adobe® Acrobat® icon or (PDF) are PDF format files. To view or print Portable Document Format (PDF) files, you must have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader software installed in your computer. If you do not have Adobe Reader®, click the Get Acrobat button to download a free copy from the Adobe Website.
For the best viewing experience, please use one of the following browsers:
