Dr. Vicki Petzko, Coordinator
(423) 425-4542 or email at Vicki-Petzko@utc.edu
This program is designed for individuals who already hold the master’s level degree, have a teaching license and three successful years of teaching experience, and who wish to obtain a Tennessee Principal’s License (ILL-B). Individuals who wish to complete this license without completing the Ed.S., already hold the master’s level degree, have a teaching license and three successful years of teaching experience should refer to the School Leadership Post-Masters Certificate .
Coursework and field experience are aligned with Tennessee Instructional Leadership Standards and synthesized in the final practicum course. Although the field experience requirement is extensive, it is expected that students will complete the program and the field experience requirement while employed as a teacher. The certificate is in compliance with the 2009 “Tennessee Learning Centered Leadership Policy” and the successful program finisher will meet all requirements for a principal/supervisor endorsement in the state of Tennessee.
Admission to the program is based on the following:
A. Admission to the Graduate School
1. Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
2. Have a minimum 2.7 undergraduate grade point average
3. Submit the $30 domestic, $35 international non-refundable application fee.
B. Admission to the Ed.S. Program requires the following:
1. Successful completion of a master’s, specialist’s, or doctoral degree in education from a regionally accredited institution
2. A teaching certificate and three successful years teaching experience as required by the State for admission to principal licensure programs
3. In addition, candidates are required to submit a portfolio and participate in an interview as part of the admission process. Details and forms to be used may be found in the “Portfolio Completion Checklist” available in the Graduate School Office or from the program director (vicki-petzko@utc.edu)
The portfolio is to include the following:
1. A copy of the candidate’s most recent performance appraisal.
2. A current professional development plan.
3. A personal statement of career goals and how the preparation program would assist the candidate in reaching the stated goals
4. Successful completion of an interview which addresses learning strategies, human relations skills, data-driven decision making, and high ethical standards.
5. Two completed reference/recommendation forms (available in the Portfolio Completion Checklist) which confirm the following:
a. Evidence of ability to improve student achievement and also demonstrated leadership in coaching other teachers to raise student achievement
b. Evidence of knowledge about curriculum, instruction and assessment
c. Evidence that describes qualities of collaboration, cooperation and relationship building
d. Demonstration of effective oral and written communications skills.
