Louisiana Administrative Code
Title 28 - EDUCATION
Part CXXXI - Bulletin 746-Louisiana Standards for State Certification of School Personnel
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Section CXXXI-101 - Purpose

A. Certification is a licensing process whereby qualified professionals become legally authorized to teach or to perform designated duties in K-12 schools and early learning centers under the jurisdiction of the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE). The certification process provides a systematic and nondiscriminatory procedure for the credentialing of teachers and other school personnel.

B. Certification policies and statutes are designed to identify and support high quality teachers in all Louisiana classrooms; promote higher standards in the teaching profession; and provide for growth and development of the teaching profession. The Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) implements and maintains teacher certification procedures as mandated by legislation and BESE policy.

C. Certification policies are adopted and implemented in a manner, and with a timeline, that allows for a smooth transition from old to new requirements. Any certification change approved by BESE will include specified implementation dates. In particular, changes in Praxis exams will allow for a 12-month transition period from the date of adoption by BESE. Additionally:

D. When revised certification policy requirements necessitate a program change at the college level, a notice shall be given to institutions of higher education that have teacher preparation programs so that catalogs can be revised and incoming freshman can be notified of the changes.

E. This bulletin will serve as a reference for current state policy regarding initial certification and to certification endorsement options for individuals seeking to become teachers, practicing teachers, personnel from both school districts and institutions of higher education, and persons requiring certification assistance.