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School Counselor Certification Renewal and Advancement
To obtain and renew a school counselor certification in Tennessee, the process involves several steps, including the initial application, renewal, and advancement of the license (see Overview of Licensure for Current Educators). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specific requirements, application processes, background checks, documentation, and fees:
Practitioner License Renewal
Requirements:
- Approved Educator Preparation Program: Completion of an approved program.
- Assessments: Passing scores on required content and pedagogical assessments as defined in the Professional Assessments for Tennessee Educators Policy.
- TN Literacy Success Act: Compliance with the act’s requirements through qualifying training or assessment, if applicable.
Application Process:
- Login to TNCompass: Go to https://www.tncompass.org/Account/Login.
- Submit Application: Select “Renew a License” and follow the prompts to complete the renewal process.
- Deadlines: Must be renewed on or before the expiration date. If expired, there is a grace period until October 1st of the expiration year to submit a reactivation request.
Advancing from Practitioner to Professional License
Pathway 1:
- Professional Development Points (PDPs): Acquire 30 PDPs during the most recent validity period or obtain a recommendation from the Director of Schools.
- Experience: Complete twenty-five (25) months of qualifying school service experience.
- Educator Preparation Program: Completion of an approved program, if required for the endorsement area.
- Assessments: Submit passing scores on all required content assessments as defined in the Professional Assessments for Tennessee Educators Policy.
Pathway 2:
- Out-of-State License: Hold an active out-of-state professional-level school service personnel license.
Application Process:
- Login to TNCompass: Go to https://www.tncompass.org/Account/Login and select “Advance a License.”
- PDP Verification: Indicate whether advancing is based on PDPs or a school director’s recommendation.
- Experience Verification: Select the “Experience” tab and verify completion of the required job experience (see Experience Requirements for Licensure Advancement).
Professional License Renewal
Requirements:
- PDPs or Experience: Submit sixty (60) PDPs earned within the validity period or complete two (2) years of qualifying experience.
- TN Literacy Success Act: Compliance with the act’s requirements through qualifying training or assessment, if applicable.
Application Process:
- Login to TNCompass: Go to https://www.tncompass.org/Account/Login.
- Submit Application: Select “Renew a License” and follow the prompts to complete the renewal process.
For additional assistance, please call the licensure department at (615)-741-1346 during normal business hours or access their website.