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The Initial School Counselor credential is a nonrenewable certification valid for three (3) years. Advancement to the Professional Certificate will depend on your employment status and experience. Once obtained, the Professional Certificate remains valid for five (5) years, expiring on June 30th of the final year of validity. To renew the Professional Certificate, you must accrue a minimum of 120 renewal credits within the five (5)-year validity period. For detailed information on renewal credits, please refer to the renewal credit matrix.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of the specific requirements and processes for advancing and renewing a School Counselor Certification in South Carolina:
In late July, the state automatically evaluates educators whose Initial certificates expire in June for advancement to Professional certification. This process requires no application from the educator. Advancement is contingent upon the school district’s submission of a “met” result for the ADEPT summative evaluation through the state’s educator evaluation data system. This evaluation must have been completed within the validity period of the expiring Initial certificate.
To renew a professional school counseling certificate, school counselors will need to complete a minimum of 120 renewal credits during the five (5)-year certificate validity period. Credits can be earned through various professional development activities listed in the State Board of Education (SBE) Renewal Credit Matrix.
Renewal Credit Matrix Options:
Additional Requirements:
For Employed Educators:
For Unemployed Educators or Those Not in a Public School District:
Proof of Renewal Credits:
Renewal of Expired Certificates:
Certificates Expired Over Ten (10) Years:
You can seek assistance with your renewal and advancement applications via phone at (803)-896-0325 or by email at certification@ed.sc.gov.