Lesley University Policy for MA Tests for Educator Licensure

2008-2009 MTEL Policy [pdf]

NEW MTEL POLICY Approved by the Deans and the Provost of Lesley University July 31, 2009

The goal of this policy is to provide students with early identification of issues that potentially could affect their ability to be licensed to teach or work in schools. The University is committed to providing students with resources based upon needs that are identified by the results of this test or by other evaluative tools in place in the academic programs. The policy was developed after reviewing the experiences of past test-takers and considering the most effective times for providing necessary interventions. The ultimate goal for Lesley University is to comply with State licensure requirements and to provide students with the skills, guidance, and supports to become successful classroom teachers or school personnel.

For all graduate programs leading to Initial Licensure:

• Beginning September 1, 2009, all NEW applicants seeking admission to an initial license program must submit evidence of having taken, or registered for, the Communication and Literacy Skills MTEL.
  
• Effective Fall 2010, all students seeking a first Initial License must pass ALL portions of the MTEL(s) required for their licensure program to be eligible for student teaching or practicum.

For all undergraduate Lesley College programs leading to Initial Licensure:

• Students must pass ALL portions of the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) required for their license in order to be eligible for Senior Student Teaching. A general timeline for taking the MTEL is outlined in the Requirements for Progression in Education Majors.

Massachusetts Licensure

The educational programs at Lesley University fulfill the Massachusetts teacher licensure regulations instituted by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE). Students completing the Lesley University master's program in each licensure area will be eligible for initial license and/or a Professional license. Candidates for Professional licensure programs are required to show evidence of the appropriate MA Initial license, or sign a non-licensure agreement.

To become licensed, a candidate must take and pass both the Communication and Literacy Skills Test and the appropriate subject test(s) for each certificate sought. Mandated by the Education Reform Act, the purpose of the tests is to ensure that each licensed teacher has the necessary skills and knowledge to teach in Massachusetts public schools. Information about the tests can be obtained from Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education or the MTEL test vendor, Evaluation Systems.

Although Lesley Certification Office has attempted to ensure that the information contained on the website is accurate and complete at the time of posting, the contents are subject to change at any time.