Becoming a teacher can be an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding career choice. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Make a difference: As a teacher, you have the power to shape the minds and futures of the next generation. You can inspire and encourage your students to reach their full potential, and help them develop the skills they need to succeed in life.

2. Job security: Teaching is a stable and secure profession, with high demand for qualified educators. Once you have your teaching certification, you can feel confident that you will have a career that will provide for you and your family for years to come.

3. Lifelong learning: Teaching is a profession that requires continuous learning and growth. You will have the opportunity to continue your education, learn from your students, and stay intellectually engaged throughout your career.

4. Flexibility: Teaching can offer flexibility in terms of work hours and location. You may have the option to work part-time, or to work from home as an online teacher.

At Educate Hearts Teaching Corps (EHTC), we believe that everyone has the potential to be a great teacher, regardless of their background or experience. Our alternative teacher certification program is designed to provide aspiring educators with the support and resources they need to succeed in the classroom. Contact us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you achieve your teaching goals.

Educate Hearts Teaching Corps is a unique alternative teacher certification program that stands out from traditional programs in several ways. First, our program is designed and led by experienced educators, some having over 50 years of experience in the field of education, and other educators that entered the field in the last five years. This ensures that candidates receive the highest quality of instruction, guidance, and perspectives throughout the program.

Second, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps leverages the most contemporary technology to provide candidates with an innovative and engaging learning experience. From online coursework to virtual classrooms, candidates have access to cutting-edge tools that help them succeed in the program and in their future teaching careers.

Third, our program emphasizes instruction on the certification content that candidates choose to pursue. This means that candidates receive targeted and relevant instruction that prepares them to pass the certification exam and excel in their chosen subject area.

Finally, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps provides ongoing support to candidates during and after the clinical teaching. We understand that becoming a teacher can be challenging, so we offer one-on-one coaching, mentorship, and other resources to ensure that our candidates have the support they need to succeed.

Overall, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps offers a unique and innovative approach to alternative teacher certification that sets our candidates up for success in their future teaching careers.

Educate Hearts Teaching Corps offers a unique and comprehensive program that prepares individuals to become effective and successful teachers in today's diverse classrooms. Our program is designed for individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences who are seeking an alternative route to teacher certification. Here are some reasons why you should choose Educate Hearts Teaching Corps:

1. Flexibility: Our program is designed to fit your schedule. You can complete the program online or in-person, and you can choose to complete it full-time or part-time. This flexibility allows you to balance your personal and professional responsibilities while pursuing your teaching certification.

2. Support: Our experienced staff and mentors provide ongoing support and guidance throughout your journey to become a certified teacher. You will have access to personalized coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities to help you succeed.

3. Focus on Diversity and Inclusion: Our program is designed to prepare individuals to become culturally responsive teachers who are equipped to meet the needs of all students. We provide training and support in areas such as culturally responsive teaching, differentiated instruction, and inclusive practices.

4. Affordable: Our program is one of the most affordable teacher certification programs available. We offer competitive pricing and flexible payment options to make our program accessible to everyone.

5. Career Opportunities: Our program prepares you for a successful career in teaching. We work closely with school districts to help our graduates find job opportunities in their area.

In summary, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps offers a flexible, supportive, and affordable option for individuals seeking to become certified teachers. We are committed to preparing culturally responsive teachers who are equipped to meet the needs of all students.

Individuals who have a bachelor's degree in any field and are interested in teaching are eligible to apply for the Educate Hearts Teaching Corps Alternative Teacher Certification Program. Applicants must also have a minimum GPA of 2.5, pass a criminal background check, and pass the necessary certification exams. Additionally, candidates must be committed to completing the program and becoming a certified teacher within a specified timeframe. Please see the Certification Program page for more details.

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency as part of the admission process. You may be required to take the TOEFL iBT if you earned your undergraduate or graduate degree outside the United States to ensure your ability to communicate and teach in English.

Exemptions

You are exempt from taking the TOEFL iBT if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have completed at least an undergraduate or graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States.

• You have earned an undergraduate or graduate degree from an institution outside the United States, and English is the official language of instruction. The State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) provides a list of approved countries in 19 TAC §230.11(b)(5)(B).

TOEFL iBT Score Requirements

If you do not qualify for an exemption, you must submit official verification of a minimum scaled score that meets the High-Intermediate level in each section of the TOEFL iBT.

For more details, visit ETS-TOEFL at www.ets.org/toefl. To send your scores, contact TEACHERS, Inc.’s Office of Enrollment Management for the Destination Code (DI).

Note: TOEFL iBT score requirements are subject to change by TEA, and TEA’s updated requirements will override program requirements when applicable.

Having a GPA below 2.5 does not automatically disqualify you from our program. Educate Hearts Teaching Corps understands that candidates may demonstrate strengths in other areas. We offer the PACT (Pre-Admission Content Test) as an alternative for those who excel in different aspects of their application. The PACT allows us to evaluate your potential and readiness for our program beyond your GPA. We strive to provide opportunities for candidates to demonstrate their qualifications in multiple ways.

Applicants must take and pass a PACT under the following circumstances as mandated by the law:

• If the applicant possesses a GPA below 2.5.

• If the applicant has not completed a minimum of 12 semester credit hours in the subject area corresponding to the certificate they seek (18 hours if the certificate pertains to math or science above the 7th grade level). It's important to note that applicants meeting the GPA requirement of 2.5 and having completed 12 to 18 semester credit hours of coursework are exempt from the PACT requirement.

Yes. All applicants are required to have a background check upon admission.

Educate Hearts Teaching Corps Alternative Teacher Certification Program is committed to providing a safe and secure learning environment for all students. To fulfill the background check requirement mandated by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and state law, all program candidates are required to undergo a criminal history background check as part of the admissions process and is mandatory for approval to commence the clinical experience and to obtain teaching certificate.

The FBI fingerprint-based Record Check through authorized vendors such as IdentoGO is a mandatory background check required for all candidates enrolled in an educator preparation program. Hence, this comprehensive background check is a mandatory step for applying for a standard teacher certificate in Texas, and therefore, is a requirement for admissions into TEACHERS, Inc.’s Alternative Teacher Certification Program.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) offers an additional background check for applicants who question their eligibility to become a Texas educator due to a prior criminal history. This secondary, but optional, background check is known as the Preliminary Criminal History Evaluation (PCHE). Candidates who have uncertainty about their eligibility to become a Texas teacher due to a prior criminal record, even if the record was sealed, should strongly consider completing the PCHE as a precautionary step to avoid any unforeseen surprises during or at the end of their pursuits to become a licensed teacher in Texas.

The FBI fingerprint-based Record Check is an imperative step for all prospective applicants and candidates to ensure the safety and well-being of all student learners in Texas. Failure to complete the FBI fingerprint-based Record Check may result in the delay or denial of admission to Educate Hearts Teaching Corps Alternative Teacher Certification Program. All background check results are kept confidential and used solely for program admission purposes.

For further information or clarification, please reach out to enrollment@educatehearts.org.

Educate Hearts Teaching Corps

To apply for the Educate Hearts Teaching Corps program, you must first meet our eligibility requirements. These requirements include having a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a 2.5 grade point average (GPA), and passing a background check. Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you can begin the application process.

The first step is to submit a request to receive more information about the program located on the bottom of our Certification Program webpage. Next, talk to our enrollment management staff and then submit an application. The application will ask for your personal information, educational background, and work experience. After submitting your application, you will be contacted by a Educate Hearts Teaching Corps representative to complete a one-minute disposition video to be submitted to the enrollment management office.

If you are accepted into the program, you will be required to complete a series of teacher preparation courses, pass the appropriate certification exams, and complete the clinical teaching. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible for certification as a teacher in your chosen subject area and grade level. If you have any further questions about the application process or eligibility requirements, please contact us for more information.

If you were previously enrolled in another teacher certification program, you may still be eligible to enroll in TEACHERS, Inc. Our program accepts transfer credits from other accredited teacher certification programs. However, please note that transfer credits are subject to review and approval by our program director. In addition, you will need to meet all of our program requirements, including completing our coursework, passing our exams, and meeting our field experience requirements. If you have any questions about transferring credits or meeting our program requirements, please contact our admissions office for more information.

Educate Hearts Teaching Corps offers the following teacher certifications:

Early Childhood (Kindergarten) through 6th Grade

English, Language Arts & Reading, Grades 7-12th

Mathematics, Grades 7-12th

Science, Grades 7-12th

Social Studies, Grades 7-12th

Subject-Specific Content Requirements for EC-6 Certification

Applicants seeking an initial teaching certificate for Early Childhood (Kindergarten) through 6th grade must complete a minimum of 12 semester credit hours in each of the five subject-specific content domains listed below before admission into the program. Most applicants fulfill many of these requirements during their freshman and sophomore years in college as part of their core curriculum. To verify compliance with this state requirement, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps evaluates applicants' transcripts using the Texas Core Curriculum established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). Below are examples of courses that typically satisfy the content requirements for each domain:

1. English (12 semester credit hours)

Courses should develop English language proficiency, literature analysis, and communication skills. Examples include:

• English Composition and Rhetoric

• British Literature

• Argumentation and Debate

2. Mathematics (12 semester credit hours)

Courses should focus on mathematical concepts, business applications, and economic principles. Examples include:

• Finite Mathematics

• Principles of Economics

• Mathematics for Business and Social Scientists

3. Science (12 semester credit hours)

Courses should cover topics in life and physical sciences. Examples include:

• General Animal Science

• Introduction to Biology

• Introduction to Galaxies and Cosmology

4. Social Studies (12 semester credit hours)

Courses should encompass history, government, and social sciences. Examples include:

• World History to 1500

• Global Social Trends

• Criminology

5. Fine Arts, Health, and Physical Education (12 semester credit hours)

Courses should include creative arts, performance studies, health, and kinesiology. Examples include:

• Communication and Popular Culture

• Introduction to Film Analysis

• The Art of Movement

These coursework requirements establish a strong academic foundation in the core subjects taught at the EC-6 level, ensuring candidates are prepared for program coursework that builds on this knowledge. The program's curriculum aligns with Texas teacher standards for EC-6 certification, equipping educator candidates to effectively deliver classroom instruction in accordance with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Subject-Specific Content Requirements for English Language Arts & Reading (ELAR) 7-12 Certification

Applicants seeking an initial teaching certificate for English Language Arts & Reading (ELAR) Grades 7-12 must complete a minimum of 12 semester credit hours in subject-specific coursework before admission into the program, with 15 semester credit hours preferred to ensure a strong foundation in content knowledge. Most applicants fulfill many of these requirements during their undergraduate studies as part of their degree plan or core curriculum. To verify compliance with this state requirement, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps evaluates applicants' transcripts using the Texas Core Curriculum established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). Educate Hearts Teaching Corps will review transcripts to ensure coursework aligns with the competencies required for the sought-after certification. Because course titles vary by institution, applicants should ensure their coursework reflects the key competencies needed for ELAR instruction. The following are examples of courses that typically meet the content requirements for certification:

• English Composition I & II

• Advanced Composition and Rhetoric

• Technical and Professional Writing

• American Literature (pre- and post-Civil War)

• British Literature (Medieval, Renaissance, or Modern)

• World Literature

• Young Adult Literature

• African American, Latinx, or Multicultural Literature

• Literary Theory and Criticism

• History of the English Language

• Introduction to Linguistics

• Language and Literacy Development

• Creative Writing

• Teaching Writing and Grammar

• Argumentation and Debate

These coursework requirements ensure candidates have a strong academic foundation in English Language Arts & Reading. The program's curriculum aligns with Texas teacher standards for ELAR 7-12 certification, equipping educator candidates to effectively deliver instruction in accordance with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Subject-Specific Content Requirements for Mathematics 7-12 Certification

Applicants seeking an initial teaching certificate for Mathematics Grades 7-12 must complete a minimum of 18 semester credit hours in mathematics-related coursework before admission into the program. Additional coursework beyond the minimum is recommended to strengthen content knowledge and instructional readiness.

Most applicants fulfill many of these requirements during their undergraduate studies as part of their degree plan or core curriculum. To verify compliance with this state requirement, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps evaluates applicants' transcripts using the Texas Core Curriculum established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). Educate Hearts Teaching Corps will review transcripts to ensure coursework aligns with the competencies required for the sought-after certification. Because course titles vary by institution, applicants should ensure their coursework reflects the key competencies needed for Mathematics instruction. The following are examples of courses that typically meet the content requirements for certification:

Mathematics

• College Algebra

• Pre-Calculus

• Calculus I

• Calculus II

• Linear Algebra

• Discrete Mathematics

• Differential Equations

• Number Theory

• Geometry (Euclidean and Non-Euclidean)

• Abstract Algebra

• Real Analysis

• Mathematical Modeling

• History of Mathematics

Statistics & Data Analysis

• Probability and Statistics

• Applied Statistics

• Statistical Methods for Business and Economics

• Data Analytics

• Quantitative Methods

Business & Economics

• Business Calculus

• Financial Mathematics

• Principles of Economics (Microeconomics or Macroeconomics)

• Econometrics

• Business Statistics

• Operations Research

These coursework requirements ensure candidates have a strong academic foundation in Mathematics. The program's curriculum aligns with Texas teacher standards for Mathematics 7-12 certification, equipping educator candidates to effectively deliver instruction in accordance with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Subject-Specific Content Requirements for Science 7-12 Certification

Applicants seeking an initial teaching certificate for Science Grades 7-12 must complete a minimum of 18 semester credit hours in science-related coursework before admission into the program. Additional coursework beyond the minimum is recommended to strengthen content knowledge and instructional readiness. Most applicants fulfill many of these requirements during their undergraduate studies as part of their degree plan or core curriculum. To verify compliance with this state requirement, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps evaluates applicants' transcripts using the Texas Core Curriculum established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). Educate Hearts Teaching Corps will review transcripts to ensure coursework aligns with the competencies required for the sought-after certification.

Because course titles vary by institution, applicants should ensure their coursework reflects the key competencies needed for Science instruction. The following are examples of courses that typically meet the content requirements for certification:

Biological Sciences

• General Biology I & II

• Cell Biology

• Genetics

• Microbiology

• Human Anatomy and Physiology

• Evolutionary Biology

• Ecology

Physical Sciences

• General Chemistry I & II

• Organic Chemistry

• Biochemistry

• General Physics I & II

• Mechanics

• Thermodynamics

• Electricity and Magnetism

• Modern Physics

Earth and Space Sciences

• Geology

• Meteorology

• Oceanography

• Astronomy

• Environmental Science

• Climate Science

Scientific Research & Applied Science

• Scientific Research Methods

• Laboratory Techniques in Science

• Biotechnology

• Science and Society

• Engineering Principles

These coursework requirements ensure candidates have a strong academic foundation in Science. The program's curriculum aligns with Texas teacher standards for Science 7-12 certification, equipping educator candidates to effectively deliver instruction in accordance with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Subject-Specific Content Requirements for Social Studies 7-12 Certification

Applicants seeking an initial teaching certificate for Social Studies Grades 7-12 must complete a minimum of 12 semester credit hours in subject-specific coursework before admission into the program, with 15 semester credit hours preferred to ensure a strong foundation in content knowledge. Most applicants fulfill many of these requirements during their undergraduate studies as part of their degree plan or core curriculum. To verify compliance with this state requirement, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps evaluates applicants' transcripts using the Texas Core Curriculum established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB). Educate Hearts Teaching Corps will review transcripts to ensure coursework aligns with the competencies required for the sought-after certification.

Because course titles vary by institution, applicants should ensure their coursework reflects the key competencies needed for Social Studies instruction. The following are examples of courses that typically meet the content requirements for certification:

• U.S. History (Pre-Colonial to Reconstruction)

• U.S. History (Reconstruction to Present)

• Texas History

• World History to 1500

• World History Since 1500

• Geography (Human, Physical, or World Geography)

• Principles of Economics (Microeconomics or Macroeconomics)

• Political Science (U.S. Government or Comparative Government)

• Sociology

• Psychology

• Cultural Anthropology

• Historiography and Research Methods in History

These coursework requirements ensure candidates have a strong academic foundation in Social Studies. The program's curriculum aligns with Texas teacher standards for Social Studies 7-12 certification, equipping educator candidates to effectively deliver instruction in accordance with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

The completion requirements for the Teacher’s Certification Program ensure that candidates have acquired the necessary skills, knowledge, and disposition to effectively facilitate learning in diverse classroom settings. This document provides a comprehensive overview of the essential components candidates must fulfill.

Academic Coursework: All candidates must complete a minimum of 342 contact hours of coursework.

Pre-service Field-based Observations: All candidates must complete 50 hours of field-based observations by the completion of EDUC 4811.

Clinical Teaching: A clinical teaching assignment is one of two options for the required clinical experience, requiring a minimum of 490 hours, averaging at least 4 hours per day in the certification subject and grade level. This includes planning time but excludes lunch. If a candidate has documented parental leave, military leave, illness, or bereavement, the minimum requirement may be reduced to no less than 455 hours.

Internship: An internship is the second of two options for the required clinical experience, requiring candidates to complete a minimum of one full school year as a teacher of record in a TEA-approved authentic classroom setting.

Assessment & Testing: All candidates must pass the appropriate content Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) assessments of content area knowledge in addition to the professional knowledge and standards for educators evaluated by the Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) EC-12 examination. For certain certifications, as determined by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), candidates must also pass the Science of Teaching Reading examination.

Portfolio Development: Throughout the entirety of the program's coursework, candidates are required to develop a teacher candidate portfolio by compiling their performance-based assignments rendered by their course instructors. The teacher candidate portfolio is a source of reference for candidates to leverage while completing their internship and during their first few years of teaching after receipt of their Texas teacher standard certificate.

Safety: All candidates must be cleared through a background check to ensure the safety of candidates.

Final Review & Exit Interview: All candidates must participate in an exit interview with designated program staff to discuss their experiences, insights, and recommendations for program improvement. This requirement is for candidates who receive a recommendation for a Texas standard teacher certificate or if candidates opt to depart the program before completion.

Certification: All candidates must pay any associated fees for certification as required by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Educate Hearts Teaching Corps offers two clinical experience options: clinical teaching and internship. While candidates may express a preference, final approval is at the discretion of the program and participating school districts. Eligibility, placement, and successful completion of the program and state requirements depend on the following:

• Content Knowledge: Completion of required coursework and passing all state licensure exams, including the TExES content test, TExES PPR, and, if applicable, the TExES Science of Teaching Reading.

• Clearance Requirements: Successful completion of background checks, fingerprinting, and other TEA and district-mandated clearances.

• Foundational Training: Completion of pre-service observations, coursework, training, and orientation as required by Educate Hearts Teaching Corps and TEA.

• Pedagogical Assessment: Demonstration of effective teaching, classroom management, and instructional strategies through formal assessments and passing the TExES PPR exam.

• Placement Alignment: Candidates must be placed in TEA-accredited or approved schools based on certification area and district needs.

• Commitment Duration:

  • Clinical Teaching: Minimum of 490 hours (averaging at least 4 hours per day) in the assigned subject and grade level.

  • Internship: Minimum of one full school year as a teacher of record in an approved classroom setting.

• Supervision & Evaluation: Candidates receive ongoing mentorship, supervision, and feedback from program mentors and cooperating teachers.

• Adherence to Program & TEA Guidelines: Candidates must follow all Educate Hearts Teaching Corps and TEA policies throughout the clinical experience.

• Performance & Completion Approval: Candidates must receive at least five "Proficient" ratings out of seven formal observations using the T-TESS rubric and secure endorsements from their field supervisor, mentoring/cooperating teacher, and school administrator to qualify for standard certification.

For more details, contact Educate Hearts Teaching Corps’ Office of Enrollment Management.

Educate Hearts Teaching Corps is committed to helping every candidate succeed by providing ongoing support and targeted remediation throughout the clinical experience. If a candidate faces challenges, they will receive personalized coursework, targeted assignments, and other program-prescribed support based on areas identified in formal observations to strengthen their skills and improve their performance.

• Internship Pathway (Teacher of Record): Candidates have up to three attempts under a 12-month certificate (internship or probationary). If additional support is needed beyond these attempts, candidates will transition to the clinical teaching pathway (non-teacher of record) for a fourth and final attempt with continued guidance.

• Clinical Teaching Pathway (Non-Teacher of Record): Candidates must remain in this pathway and have up to four total attempts to demonstrate their readiness to lead a classroom.

In accordance with state law, candidates in either pathway who do not successfully complete the clinical experience after four attempts will no longer be eligible for Texas teacher licensure. However, Educate Hearts Teaching Corps remains fully committed to supporting candidates at every stage, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to succeed.

The certification program consists of two main components: coursework and clinical experience. Coursework typically takes about nine months to complete and includes ancillary training requirements. Before progressing to the clinical experience phase, candidates must complete 50 hours of pre-service field-based observations. Additionally, candidates are required to complete training in key areas, including dyslexia awareness, mental health, substance abuse, youth suicide prevention, and digital literacy.

The second phase of the program involves either clinical teaching or a teaching internship, depending on the candidate’s chosen pathway. Candidates who select the clinical teaching option must complete a minimum of 490 hours, averaging at least four hours per day, in the subject area and grade level of their certification. Those who choose the internship pathway must complete a full school year in a classroom assignment that aligns with the certification category or categories for which they are being prepared by the EPP. To determine the best option for meeting this state requirement, please consult your program advisor for further details.

A: The certification program at Educate Hearts Teaching Corps costs $6,500. We understand that this is a substantial investment, and we are committed to making our programs accessible to all qualified candidates. Financial resources and assistance options are available to help manage these costs. For more information please contact our Enrollment Management Department.

Yes! Educate Hearts Teaching Corps provides comprehensive support to its candidates in preparing for the TExES tests. Our program includes rigorous preparation courses that focuses on candidates' certification content and additional study materials to ensure that our candidates are fully equipped to pass the tests required for certification. Additionally, we offer personalized coaching and mentoring to help our candidates succeed. We understand that standardized tests can be challenging, and we are committed to providing the support necessary for our candidates to achieve their goals.

Yes, absolutely! Our program is designed to cater to working adults who are seeking an alternative pathway to become a certified teacher. We understand that many of our candidates have full-time jobs, families, and other obligations, which is why our program is structured to be flexible and convenient. Our convenient location in downtown Houston is perfect for accessibility, regardless of your location in the region.

After completing your program coursework, you have the opportunity to complete your clinical teaching at a school near your home or workplace, contingent an opening is available. We also offer a personalized coaching and mentoring program throughout the clinical teaching to help you stay on track and succeed in your teaching career. So, whether you are working full-time or part-time, you can still pursue your dream of becoming a teacher with Educate Hearts Teaching Corps

While it's true that you are currently teaching, obtaining your teacher certification through Educate Hearts Teaching Corps can benefit you in a number of ways. First, it can help you become a more effective teacher by providing you with additional training and support. Second, it can open up new career opportunities, such as moving into other teaching positions and leadership roles within any public school or district in Texas. Finally, it can help you become more competitive in the job market, as many schools and districts require teacher certification for employment.

Thank you for your interest in our Alternative Teacher Certification Program. At Educate Hearts Teaching Corps, we offer customized services to meet the unique needs of each school or school district. To subcontract our firm, please contact us from the information at the end of this page. We will work with you to develop a plan that fits your specific requirements and budget. Our experienced team of professionals will guide your staff through our rigorous certification process, ensuring that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the classroom. We look forward to working with you to help your school or district achieve its goals.

At Educate Hearts Teaching Corps, we are dedicated to providing a supportive and equitable learning and work environment for all members of our Teacher Certification Program, including teacher candidates and program staff. We recognize that challenges may arise, and we are committed to addressing and resolving any concerns or complaints promptly and fairly. This policy outlines the complaint process and the steps to follow when you encounter any issues within our program.

Complaint Definition

A complaint is defined as any dissatisfaction or disagreement with a decision, action, or situation related to Educate Hearts Teaching Corps' Teacher Certification Program.

Complaint Policy

This Complaint Policy outlines our commitment to providing a formal mechanism for addressing and resolving complaints raised by teacher candidates and program staff.

Our policy aims to:

1. Provide Clarity: This policy sets forth the principles and standards governing the handling of complaints, ensuring that all parties understand the procedures for raising and addressing concerns.

2. Protect Rights: We are committed to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals involved in our program, whether they are teacher candidates or program staff. This policy outlines the steps for fair and equitable resolution.

3. Foster Accountability: We take all complaints seriously and are dedicated to investigating them thoroughly. This policy ensures accountability in addressing and resolving complaints.

4. Maintain Confidentiality: All complaints will be treated confidentially to the extent allowed by law. Information related to the complaint and its resolution will only be disclosed to individuals directly involved in the investigation and resolution process.

5. Ensure Non-Retaliation: Educate Hearts Teaching Corps strictly prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns or file complaints in good faith.

6. Continuous Improvement: We view complaints as opportunities for improvement. By addressing concerns constructively, we aim to enhance our program's quality and effectiveness.

Complaint Process

Step 1: Informal Resolution

If you have a concern or complaint, we encourage you to address it directly with the individuals involved, such as your instructor, field supervisor, or fellow staff members. In many cases, open communication can lead to a swift resolution.

Step 2: Formal Complaint

If your concern remains unresolved after attempting an informal resolution, or if you are uncomfortable addressing it directly, you may initiate a formal complaint. To do this, submit a written complaint to the program director within ten (10) business days of the incident or issue. Include details such as the nature of the complaint, individuals involved, and any supporting documentation.

Step 3: Investigation and Response

Upon receiving your formal complaint, the program director will initiate an investigation. This may involve speaking with relevant parties and reviewing documents. The program director will provide a written response within twenty (20) business days, outlining the findings and any actions taken or recommended.

Step 4: Appeal

If you remain unsatisfied with the program director's response, you have the option to appeal within ten (10) business days of receiving the response. Your appeal should be submitted in writing to the executive director and include your reasons for appealing the decision.

Step 5: Resolution

The executive director will review your appeal and provide a final written response within twenty (20) business days. This response concludes the complaint process within Educate Hearts Teaching Corps.

Commitment to a Supportive and Inclusive Environment

Your feedback is valuable in helping us improve our program and better serve our teacher candidates and staff. We encourage open communication and the responsible reporting of concerns. Our commitment to upholding the principles of fairness, due process, and respect in handling all complaints is demonstrated in our complaint policy and process. We believe that this policy and process reflect our dedication to maintaining a supportive and inclusive learning and working environment for all stakeholders in our teacher certification program. The following policy and the accompanying complaint process is our program’s structured framework for addressing complaints promptly, fairly, and confidentially.

At Educate Hearts Teaching Corps, we strive to provide the highest quality of service to our candidates. However, we understand that there may be times when you have concerns or adverse experiences while enrolled in the program. If you wish to file a complaint against the program to the Texas Education Agency (TEA), we encourage you to follow the steps below: 1. Contact Educate Hearts Teaching Corps – Before filing a complaint with TEA, we encourage you to reach out to the program first. Our staff will be happy to address any concerns or complaints you may have and work with you to find a resolution. For more details about the program's complaint process, please reference the program's handbook. 2. File a complaint with TEA – If you are not satisfied with the resolution from the program's complaint process, you may file a formal complaint with the Texas Education Agency. To do so, please visit their website at https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/contact-us/complaints/tea-complaints-management. The website provides explicit instructions for filing a complaint with TEA. We take all complaints seriously and strive to address them promptly and fairly. If you have any questions or concerns about our complaint process or filing a complaint with TEA, please review the program handbook or contact us if you have additional questions.