Certification Blog Posts

The Certification Journey: How Cohorts Make the Difference

Becoming a certified teacher is a challenge—it takes commitment, persistence, and heart. The ESC Region 13 Educator Certification Program (ECP) offers multiple pathways to certification, each designed to accommodate different learning styles, delivery methods, and schedules, allowing you to find the path that works best for you. As a new application cycle begins, we talked to some of our recently certified teachers about the paths they chose.

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Your Path To The Classroom: ECP Applications Open

The Education Service Center Region 13 Educator Certification Program (ECP) is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to start your journey toward becoming a certified Texas teacher, this is it! This article provides a detailed look at the three unique cohort models our program offers. Read more and choose the one that makes sense for you.

How to Teach in Texas While Getting Certified

So, you’ve decided to pursue a career in teaching but haven’t earned your certification yet? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many aspiring educators begin their journey before they’re officially certified. In Texas, some pathways allow you to interview and even secure a teaching position while working toward certification. Here’s how to confidently prepare for your interview and start strong in the classroom. Let’s look at ways to teach in Texas while getting certified.

Teacher Certification is Key to Student Achievement

Teaching is one of the most impactful professions, shaping the minds and futures of millions of students every year. However, as the data shows, many newly hired teachers across Texas enter classrooms without formal training from an Educator Preparation Program (EPP). This trend has significant implications for teacher retention and student achievement. In this article, you will read more about how teacher certification is a key to student achievement.

8 Tips for First Year Teachers

Embarking on your journey as a first-year teacher is both thrilling and daunting. The excitement of shaping young minds mingles with the pressure of managing a classroom and meeting curriculum standards all while fostering a positive learning environment. Add in balancing teacher certification and it’s natural to have a whirlwind of emotions as you approach the first days with students. With insights from recent graduates of Region 13’s Educator Certification Program (ECP) and tools from The Teacher Toolkit, here are eight practical tips to help teachers navigate their first year successfully

Bilingual Education Benefits

Did you know the state has approved six bilingual program models to support emergent bilingual students? According to TEA data, 1 in every 5 Texas students enrolled are Emergent Bilingual. Spanish-speaking students comprise 92% of students served in Texas schools and are the fastest-growing student population. For this reason, the importance of bilingual education to use research-based practices continues to grow.

What are Alternative Certification Programs?

Are you passionate about education but lack a traditional teaching or administrative certificate? Alternative certification programs offer a viable pathway for individuals to pursue careers in teaching, school leadership, and administration. Let’s explore what alternative certification programs entail and how they open doors for aspiring educators and leaders.

Every Child Deserves a Champion – Find an EPP that Champions You

When you’re considering transferring your past work experience or education into a rewarding career as one of Dr. Pierson’s education champions, you are often faced with the question: What do I do first?

How to Become a Paraprofessional in Texas

Are you considering a career in education? Becoming a paraprofessional, also known as an educational aide, can be a fulfilling and impactful way to contribute to students’ academic success.

In Texas, becoming a certified educational aide could involve meeting specific requirements or passing required tests. Let’s examine the process in depth.

What is the Role of a Paraprofessional?

The education system has countless unrecognized champions who dedicate themselves to the pursuit of student success. These unsung heroes include paraprofessionals, often called “paras,” who play an essential role in classrooms nationwide. Learn more about their identity, roles and responsibilities, and why they are indispensable in education.

Teacher Certification Options: A Guide for HR Professionals

When filling vacancies in your district, navigating the variety of teacher certification options and requirements can be challenging. Our Educator Certification Program is here to guide and support you throughout the hiring process. In this post, we’ll provide an overview for district HR personnel of the various certification options, the different types of permits, and how ECP can help your teacher candidates become certified through our District Referral Program.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Alternative Teacher Certification in Texas

Are you considering a career change and want to become a teacher in Texas? Alternative certification is an excellent option for those who want to transition into teaching without returning to school for a traditional teaching degree.

In Texas, alternative certification is a flexible way to become a certified teacher, and this guide will help you navigate the process and achieve your goal.