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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Certification

    ​English as a Second Language Program Specialist

    English as a Second Language (ESL) is a term for the use or study of the English language by non-native speakers in an English-speaking environment.  PDE offers a program specialist certification in ESL.

    Requirements to obtain an ESL Program Specialist certificate include:

    • Holding a PA Instructional I or II certificate or a valid out-of-state ESL certificate that is comparable to a PA Instructional I or II certificate, and
    • Completion of a state-approved ESL certification preparation program that includes a field experience/student teaching with ESL students.  Out-of-state ESL programs will be reviewed according to the Pennsylvania ESL Specific Program Guidelines.

    Candidates must apply in TIMS to have their certificate and coursework officially evaluated.