Code of Maine Rules
05 - DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
071 - EDUCATION - GENERAL
Chapter 115 - THE CREDENTIALING OF EDUCATION PERSONNEL
Part II - Requirements for Specific Certificates and Endorsements
Section 071-115-II-1 - TEACHERS AND EDUCATIONAL SPECIALISTS: GENERAL CERTIFICATES AND ENDORSEMENTS

Universal Citation: 05 ME Code Rules § 071-115-II-1

Current through 2025-13, March 26, 2025

1.1 Endorsement 029: Early Elementary Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students pre-kindergarten through grade 3.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.1. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of early elementary teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of six semester hours in each of the following: English, mathematics, science, and social studies or social sciences;

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in early literacy;

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in children's literature;

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in mathematics for the young child;

(f) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in science for the young child;

(g) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in social studies for the young child;

(h) Completed a minimum of an additional six semester hours in early childhood education;

(i) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(j) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, or child development;

(k) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom;

(l) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(m) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in this endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in this endorsement area for the specified grade level.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of six semester hours in each of the following: English, mathematics, science, and social studies or social sciences.

1.2 Endorsement 020: Elementary Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students kindergarten through grade 6.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.2. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of elementary teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of six semester hours in each of the following: English, mathematics, science, and social studies or social sciences;

(c) Completed a minimum of nine semester hours in elementary literacy methods (e.g., teaching reading, teaching writing, children's literature, writing process, foundations of literacy, multicultural literacy);

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in elementary mathematics methods;

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in elementary science methods;

(f) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in elementary social studies methods;

(g) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(h) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development;

(i) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom;

(j) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(k) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in this endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in this endorsement area at the specified grade level.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Completed at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of six semester hours in each of the following: English, mathematics, science, and social studies or social sciences.

1.3 Endorsement: Middle Level Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students grade 5 through grade 8 in one of the following endorsement areas: 100 English/language arts, 200 social studies, 300 mathematics, 340 science, or a specific world language, including 410 Latin, 420 French, 430 German, 440 Spanish, 445 Portuguese, 450 Russian, 454 American Sign Language, 455 Hebrew, 456 Arabic, 460 Italian, 465 Greek, 470 Chinese, or 480 Japanese.

Changes to the list of world language endorsements may be made by the State Board and Commissioner without further rulemaking proceedings.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.3. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of middle level teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution for the endorsement being sought;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Holds a valid Maine professional teaching certificate with a pre-K-3, K-6, 5-8, 6-12, or pre-K-12 endorsement;

(c) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the areas relevant to the middle level endorsement area being sought. For purposes of making this computation, life and physical sciences shall be aggregated and shall include a minimum of nine semester hours in life sciences and a minimum of nine semester hours in physical sciences. For purposes of making this computation, world language shall have completed a minimum of 24 semester hours or have earned:
i. a score of at least an "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview administered by a certified ACTFL oral proficiency tester in the modern language endorsement area being sought, and earned a score of at least "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Writing Proficiency Test in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

ii. a score of at least a 7 in speaking and writing on the Avant STAMP 4S or Avant STAMP WS in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

iii. a score of at least a 4 on the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) for the American Sign Language endorsement;

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development; and

(f) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the areas relevant to the middle level endorsement area being sought. For purposes of making this computation, life and physical sciences shall be aggregated and shall include a minimum of nine semester hours in life sciences and a minimum of nine semester hours in physical sciences. For purposes of making this computation, world language shall have completed a minimum of 24 semester hours or have earned:
i. a score of at least an "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview administered by a certified ACTFL oral proficiency tester in the modern language endorsement area being sought, and earned a score of at least "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Writing Proficiency Test in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

ii. a score of at least a 7 in speaking and writing on the Avant STAMP 4S or Avant STAMP WS in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

iii. a score of at least a 4 on the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) for the American Sign Language endorsement; and

(c) Holds a valid Maine professional teaching certificate with a pre-K-3, K-6, 5-8, 6-12 or pre-K-12 endorsement.

1.4 Endorsement: Secondary Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students in grades 6 through grade 12 in one of the following endorsement areas: 100 English/language arts, 200 social studies 300 mathematics, 350 physical science, or 395 life science.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.4. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of 6-12 teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution for the endorsement being sought;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the areas relevant to the 6-12 endorsement area being sought. For purposes of this Section, this includes but is not limited to:
i. English (e.g., composition, literature, writing)

ii. Life science (e.g., biology, ecology, botany, zoology, anatomy, physiology, environmental science, entomology, ornithology)

iii. Mathematics (e.g., algebra, geometry, calculus, probability, statistics, finite math, number theory)

iv. Physical science (e.g., chemistry, physics, geology, earth science, astronomy, meteorology, oceanography, soil science)

v. Social studies (e.g., geography, history, economics, government, anthropology, psychology, sociology);

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development;

(e) Passed content area methods course;

(f) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom;

(g) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(h) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in the endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in the endorsement area at the specified grade level.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the areas relevant to the 6-12 endorsement being sought.

1.5 Endorsement: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 Teacher (All Subjects Other than Art and Music)

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students pre-kindergarten through grade 12 in one of the following endorsement areas: 510 physical education, 517 dance, 520 health, 625 theater, 640 business education, 670 family and consumer science, 680 computer technology, and 700 industrial arts/technology education.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.5. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of pre-kindergarten through grade 12 teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution for the endorsement being sought;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the areas relevant to the pre-kindergarten through grade 12 endorsement area being sought;

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development;

(e) Passed content area methods course;

(f) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom;

(g) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(h) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in the endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in the endorsement area at the specified grade level.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the areas relevant to the endorsement being sought.

1.6 Endorsement: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 Teacher (Music and Art)

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students pre-kindergarten through grade 12 in one of the following endorsement areas: 614 music and 620 art.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.6. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of pre-kindergarten through grade 12 teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution for the endorsement being sought;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of 15 semester hours in performance/studio coursework in the areas relevant to the pre-kindergarten through grade 12 endorsement area being sought;

(c) Completed a minimum of 9 semester hours in theory/history coursework in the areas relevant to the pre-kindergarten through grade 12 endorsement area being sought;

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development;

(f) Passed content area methods course;

(g) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom;

(h) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(i) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in the endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in the endorsement area at the specified grade level.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed Sections 1.6. B.2.b and 1.6.B.2.c above in the areas relevant to the endorsement being sought.

1.7 Endorsement: World Language Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students in a world language pre-kindergarten through grade 12, including but not limited to one of the following endorsement areas: 410 Latin, 420 French, 430 German, 440 Spanish, 445 Portuguese, 450 Russian, 454 American Sign Language, 455 Hebrew, 456 Arabic, 460 Italian, 465 Greek, 470 Chinese, or 480 Japanese. Changes to the list of world language endorsements may be made by the State Board and Commissioner without further rulemaking proceedings.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.7. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of world language teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution for the endorsement being sought;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Satisfied one of the following:
i. Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours with an emphasis on world language acquisition and culture in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

ii. Earned a score of at least an "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview administered by a certified ACTFL oral proficiency tester in the modern language endorsement area being sought, and earned a score of at least "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Writing Proficiency Test in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

iii. Earned a score of at least a 7 in speaking and writing on the Avant STAMP 4S or Avant STAMP WS in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

iv. Earned a score of at least a 4 on the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) for the American Sign Language endorsement;

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development;

(e) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards;

(f) Passed content area methods course;

(g) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom; and

(h) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in the endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in the endorsement area at the specified grade level.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in the world language endorsement area being sought, or earned:
i. a score of at least an "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview administered by a certified ACTFL oral proficiency tester in the modern language endorsement area being sought, and earned a score of at least "Advanced Low" on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Writing Proficiency Test in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

ii. a score of at least a 7 in speaking and writing on the Avant STAMP 4S or Avant STAMP WS in the world language endorsement area being sought; or

iii. a score of at least a 4 on the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) for the American Sign Language endorsement;

1.8 Endorsement 660: English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach English for Speakers of Other Languages to students in pre-kindergarten through grade 12.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of four pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through any of these pathways may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.8. B.5, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of English for Speakers of Other Languages teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Holds a valid Maine professional teaching certificate with a pre-K-3, K-6, 5-8, 6-12, or pre-K-12 endorsement;

(c) Completed a minimum of 15 semester hours in English for Speakers of Other Languages coursework to include three semester hours in linguistics, three semester hours in curriculum and assessment for ESOL, three semester hours in teaching methods in ESOL;

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development; and

(f) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

3. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 3
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in English for Speakers of Other Languages coursework to include three semester hours in linguistics, three semester hours in curriculum and assessment for ESOL, and three semester hours in teaching methods in ESOL;

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development; and

(e) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom;

(f) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(g) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in this endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in this endorsement area at the specified grade level.

4. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 4
(a) Holds a valid Maine professional teaching certificate in World Languages;

(b) Completed three semester hours in English grammar or English language linguistics; and

(c) Completed three semester hours in teaching methods in ESOL.

5. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in English for Speakers of Other Languages to include three semester hours in linguistics, three semester hours in curriculum and assessment for ESOL, and three semester hours in teaching methods in ESOL.

1.9 Endorsement 530: Driver Education Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach driver education.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by the applicant having all of the following:
1. A valid Maine professional teaching certificate;

2. A personal driving record approved by the Department of Education;

3. A valid Maine driver's license; and

4. A valid Maine driver education teacher license issued by the Secretary of State.

1.10 Endorsement: Adult Education Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach in adult education diploma and high school equivalency programs in Maine. Adult education endorsements are limited to 100 English/language arts, 200 social studies, 300 mathematics, 350 physical science, and 395 life science.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one pathway. Individuals who are not eligible through this pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.10. B.2, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in areas relevant to the endorsement area being sought, which are the same as those for the corresponding 6-12 endorsement; and

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods); and

(d) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards.

2. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed a minimum of 24 semester hours in areas relevant to the endorsement area being sought.

1.11 Certificate 071: Library Media Specialist

A. Function: This certificate allows the holder to serve as a library media specialist pre-kindergarten through grade 12.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified below. Individuals who are not eligible through any of these pathways may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.11. B., below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Requirements for either Eligibility Pathway
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Demonstrated competency in all of the School Librarian Preparation Standards (ALA/AASL/CAEP School Librarian Preparation Standards):

http://www.ala.org/aasl/sites/ala.org.aasl/files/content/aasleducation/ALA_AASL_CAEP_School_Librarian_Preparation_Standards_2019_Final.pdf);

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods); and

(d) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Certificate Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Completed 36 graduate semester hours aligned with ALA/AASL/CAEP School Librarian Preparation Standards.

3. Certificate Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Holds a valid Maine professional teaching certificate; and

(b) Completed 24 graduate semester hours aligned with ALA/AASL/CAEP School Librarian Preparation Standards.

4. Conditional Certificate
(a) Conditional Certificate Pathway 1
i. Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

ii. Completed a minimum of 24 graduate semester hours which align with the ALA/AASL/CAEP School Librarian Preparation Standards.

(b) Conditional Certificate Pathway 2
i. Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

ii. Holds a valid Maine professional teaching certificate; and

iii. Completed a minimum of six graduate semester hours which align with the ALA/AASL/CAEP School Librarian Preparation Standards.

1.12 Certificate 075: School Counselor

A. Function: This certificate allows the holder to serve as a school counselor to provide guidance services pre-kindergarten through grade 12.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this certificate shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.12. B.3, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Certificate Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Earned a master's or a doctorate degree through a Maine program approved to prepare school counselors from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 or this rule, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution; and

(b) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Certificate Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned a master's or a doctorate degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule:

Coursework in bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degree program must align with the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) standards and address content areas for School Counselors;

Foundations: models of school counseling including career development, assessment in pre-K-12, and school based collaboration;

Contextual Dimensions: including the role of school counselor, consultation with families, responding to school emergencies, risk factors for behavioral disorders, effects of substance use disorders, community resources, and legal and ethical considerations; and

Practice of School Counseling: purpose and mission, design and evaluation of school counseling programs, academic interventions, transition planning with students, equity in student outcomes, advocacy, and data-driven decision-making; and

(b) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods); and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

3. Conditional Certificate
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Matriculated into an approved program for school counselor education or current enrollment in graduate coursework for school counselor education; and

(c) Completed a minimum of 24 graduate semester hours in school counselor education coursework which are aligned with the CACREP standards and address content areas for School Counselors.

1.13 Certificate 092: Literacy Specialist

A. Function: This certificate allows the holder to diagnose, instruct, or evaluate pupils needing corrective or remedial instruction in reading, in addition to or in lieu of, that provided by the classroom teacher. The holder of this certificate is not limited to providing services to only those persons who need corrective or remedial instruction.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this certificate shall be established by one of three pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through any of these pathways may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.13. B.4, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Certificate Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for school literacy specialist, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Certificate Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Holds a professional teaching certificate with a subject area endorsement or a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(c) Earned a master's degree in literacy/reading from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(d) Earned graduate semester hours for a literacy/reading clinic; and

(e) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

3. Certificate Eligibility Pathway 3
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience;

(c) Completed a minimum of 24 graduate semester hours in literacy;

(d) In addition to (c) above, earned graduate semester hours for a literacy/reading clinic;

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods); and

(f) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

4. Conditional Certificate
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of nine graduate semester hours in literacy; and

(c) Holds a professional teaching certificate with a subject area endorsement or a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience.

1.14 Certificate 215: Athletic Director

A. Function: This certificate allows the holder to serve as an athletic director.

B. Eligibility:

Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule.

C. Renewal Requirements:

First professional certificate renewal:

1. Holds a valid Maine administrator certificate other than a Teaching Principal's certificate;

2. Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods); and

3. Have a basic level of knowledge in all of the following areas:
(a) Interscholastic Athletics: Philosophy, Organization, and Programs;

(b) Athletic Administration: Principles, Strategies, and Methods; and

(c) Athletic Administration: Legal Issues.

1.15 Certificate 524: School Nurse

A. Function: This certificate allows the holder to serve as a school nurse, pre-kindergarten through grade 12, in a non-instructional position.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this certificate shall be established by the following pathway. Individuals who are not eligible through this pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.15. B.2, below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Certificate Eligibility Pathway
(a) Holds a valid license to practice as a Registered Professional Nurse in Maine;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods); and

(d) Completed a minimum of three years of experience as a nurse. At least one year of this experience shall have been within the five years prior to initial application for this certificate.

2. Conditional Certificate
(a) Holds a valid license to practice as a Registered Professional Nurse in Maine;

(b) Completed a minimum of three years of experience as a nurse. At least one year of this experience shall have been within the five years prior to initial application for this certificate; and

(c) Matriculated into a bachelor's degree program from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule.

(d) A maximum of five conditional school nurse certificates may be issued to an applicant.

1.16 Endorsement 081: Early Childhood Teacher

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students birth through Kindergarten.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.16. B.3 below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of early childhood teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours for teaching early childhood special education.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in each of the following: English, mathematics, science, and social studies or social sciences;

(c) Completed a minimum of three semester hours for teaching early childhood special education;

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in language development and early literacy;

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in children's literature;

(f) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in numeracy for the young child;

(g) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in science for the young child;

(h) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in child development or developmental psychology;

(i) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in infant/toddler development;

(j) Completed a minimum of six semester hours in at least two of the following areas: creative arts, family studies/observation of the young child, assessment of the young child, social studies for the young child, advanced child development, early learning environments, or additional early literacy;

(k) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(l) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or

achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or

completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(m) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks in this endorsement area at the specified grade level. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in this endorsement area for birth through kindergarten.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in each of the following: English, mathematics, science, and social studies or social sciences; and

(c) Completed a minimum of nine semester hours from Section B.2.c through j, above.

1.17 Endorsement: Native Language

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students pre-kindergarten through grade 12 in Wabanaki languages.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.17. B.3 below, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of Wabanaki language teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Receipt by the Department of documentation that the applicant meets tribal proficiency standards to teach that tribe's native language. The documentation must be signed by the officer designated for that purpose by the governing body of any federally recognized Indian tribe in Maine, or by the Chair of the body so designated, and whose signature in either case is attested by the Tribal clerk; and

(b) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

3. Conditional Certificate

An applicant who has satisfied the requirements set forth in Section 1.17. B.1.a or Section 1.17. B.1.b, above, may obtain a conditional teaching certificate in this endorsement area.

1.18 Endorsement: Pre-kindergarten through Grade 12 Teacher of Health and Physical Education

A. Function: This endorsement on a teacher certificate allows the holder to teach students pre-kindergarten through grade 12 in the areas of Health and Physical Education.

B. Eligibility: Applicants shall meet eligibility requirements specified in Part I. In addition, eligibility for this endorsement shall be established by one of two pathways. Individuals who are not eligible through either pathway may be eligible for a conditional certificate, in accordance with Section 1.18. B.3, and Part I Section 6.6 of this rule.
1. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 1
(a) Graduated from a Maine program approved for the education of pre-kindergarten through 12 teachers, together with a formal recommendation from the preparing institution for the endorsement being sought;

(b) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(c) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom.

2. Endorsement Eligibility Pathway 2
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule;

(b) Completed a minimum of 12 semester hours in health and 12 semester hours in physical education;

(c) Completed an adaptive physical education course;

(d) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in diversity-centered content related to today's classroom (e.g., culturally responsive teaching, multicultural education, intercultural education, second language acquisition or world language teaching methods);

(e) Completed a minimum of three semester hours in human development, educational psychology, developmental psychology, adolescent psychology, or child development;

(f) Completed a content area methods course in Health;

(g) Completed a content area methods course in Physical Education;

(h) Completed an approved course for teaching students with exceptionalities in the regular classroom;

(i) Passed basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics, in accordance with Maine Department of Education Regulation 13, or achieved at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA in all courses required for the certification, or completed a successful portfolio review demonstrating competency in Maine's Initial Teacher Standards; and

(j) Completed one academic semester or a minimum of 15 weeks of full-time student teaching, or a combination of part-time and full-time student teaching in an amount equivalent to 15 weeks. For this endorsement, student teaching must occur in both health and physical education within the 15-week experience. This requirement shall be waived upon completion of one full year of successful teaching under a conditional certificate in the endorsement area.

3. Conditional Certificate for this Endorsement
(a) Earned at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, in accordance with Part I Section 6.1 of this rule; and

(b) Completed Sections 1.18. B.2.b and 1.18.B.2.c, above.

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. Maine may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.