The OCPS alternative certification program, known as Professional Learning Certification Program (PLCP), is designed to offer non-education majors, who hold at least a bachelor's degree in a subject for which a professional certificate may be issued, the opportunity to be trained as an educator. The OCPS PLCP philosophy is based on a deep commitment to intense focus on student achievement by building a high-performing and dedicated team of teachers through a quality competency-based program. The goal of the PLCP is to expand the pool of educators to include non-education majors committed to making a positive impact on student achievement and providing quality educational opportunities.

In order to qualify for the OCPS PLCP, an applicant must:

• Be an instructional employee of OCPS in a teaching assignment related to and in a subject matter and grade level setting that are covered by the certification.

• Hold or be eligible for a temporary teaching certificate from the Florida Department of Education.

• Hold at least a bachelor's degree, meet the subject area requirements in a subject area for which a professional certificate may be issued or pass the state subject area exam, and be certified for the teaching assignment.

• Obtain the signature of the school-based support team including the hiring principal on the PLCP Application.

• Sign the PLCP Application as an agreement of participation.

After PLCP completion, the candidate may seek a professional certificate.
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