ATCP Program Details

HT ATCP is implemented in a three-semester (Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3) sequence with Phase 1 being the initial training prior to internship and Phases 2 and 3 consisting of ongoing training during the candidate’s internship, clinical teaching, or job search.  A new cycle begins two times during the course of an academic year: spring and summer.  The deadline for spring applications is November 15.  The deadline for summer applications is March 15.  The spring cycle begins in early January.  The summer semester begins in early May.  Training consists of field experiences, seminars, workshops, and online assignments presented by real-world practitioners who exemplify the best teaching practices. 

*If Phase 1 completed successfully and content TExES passed

** If Internship or clinical teaching completed successfully and PPR EC-12 TExES passed

References

Each applicant must submit three professional references on the form downloadable from the HT ATCP web page.  The official HT ATCP reference form must be used.  Completed reference forms should be mailed, faxed (512.505.3190) or emailed (jpseiter@htu.edu) directly to the HT ATCP office by the reference.  References that are personally delivered by the candidate will not be considered. We recommend you provide the reference with a stamped envelope addressed to HT ATCP so s/he only has to put the form in the envelope and drop it in the mail.

Criminal Background Check

Each participant is required to submit a criminal background report from the Texas Department of Public Safety (http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/ ).  Applicants whose background checks are unacceptable will not be admitted to the HT ATCP.  The employing school district and TEA will also conduct criminal background checks. 

Current employees of public school districts are not required to submit the criminal background check.  Proof of employment is required such as a copy of the District ID badge.

LASSI Assessment

The Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) is designed to gather information about learning, study practices, and attitudes.  The assessment is web-based and must be taken at the HT ACTP office.  Applicants whose materials and references have been approved for further review will be invited to the university for the LASSI and the Personal Interview described in the next section.

Interview and Critical Thinking Skills

Applicants will participate in a structured face-to-face interview. One purpose of the interview is to assess the candidate’s critical thinking skills.

Selection

Candidates are selected for the program based on their qualifications as set out in the application process.  All applicants who meet minimum requirements are not selected for the program.  Each year HT ATCP identifies a maximum number of applicants who will be accepted into the program. Those applicants whose qualifications rise to the top of the applicant pool are selected.  The selection criteria include overall GPA, coursework requirements per certification area, structured interview score, LASSI score, quality of references, work experience, and application writing sample.  HT ATCP also uses other criteria such as language fluency for foreign language and bilingual applicants and applicants with foreign transcripts.