Alternative certification sessions draw 600-plus potential educators

More than 600 people have inquired about Oklahoma’s newest way to become a teacher.

After sessions in the state and online this summer, 650 people have requested more information from the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence, said Mike Holden, director of public relations for the group.

So far, 36 candidates have enrolled in the online program.

With the passage of Senate Bill 582, Oklahomans are now allowed to use the program to obtain a teaching certificate.

Bonnie Zuckerman, vice president of recruitment for the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence, said officials are encouraged by the response.

Most people request information and then take time to think about it because it is a career change, she said.

"The initial interest we’ve seen around our first set of information sessions has been great, and I only expect it to grow from here,” Zuckerman said.

"We’re very much looking forward to getting ABCTE (program) teachers into Oklahoma classrooms and making a difference.”

Holden said the organization will follow up, through phone calls or e-mail, with the people who expressed interest.

Candidates take classes online to obtain an alternative teaching certificate and have mentors during their first year of teaching.