The Certification Only-Option Program (CO-OP) is a graduate certificate designed for those individuals who have completed a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree and wish to obtain their K-8 teaching certificate in the state of Alaska. The program allows one to complete the 27 credits of training and course work at his/her own pace to become licensure eligible. Candidates gain valuable practical experience by completing structured and supervised practicums in elementary and middle school classroom environments.

The Certification Only-Option Program (CO-OP) leads to teacher licensure. Students completing the program are expected to achieve the Alaska Beginning Teacher Standards that are reflected in the following Professional Competencies:

• Philosophy and Approach (PA) : Describe personal research-based philosophy of education and apply it in the classroom with consistent teaching strategies and practices.
• Developmental Stages (DS) : Understand how students learn and develop and apply that knowledge to individuals and groups in classroom practice.
• Diverse Cultures and Needs (DCN) : Teach students with respect for their individual and cultural characteristics to promote learning and communication.
• Content Knowledge and Strategies (CKS) : Knows the teacher’s content areas and how to teach them using age appropriate strategies to develop student knowledge, skills, and understandings applicable to real world situations; this includes accurate information, critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and use of technology.
• Assessment Guides Instruction (AGI) : Facilitates, monitors, and assesses student learning to inform students and families of progress and needs; encourages student self-assessment; uses individual and group performance to guide instruction (formative and summative assessment); and maintains accurate records.
• Positive Learning Environment (PLE) : Creates and maintains a positive learning environment that is physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe in which all students can learn, and are actively engaged, contributing members.
• Partnerships and Real-life Connections (PRC) :Works as a partner with parents, families, and the community.
• Professionalism, Ethics, and Growth (PEG): Participates in and contributes to the teaching profession, complies with standards, laws and Code of Ethics, and engages in continuous professional growth.

Admissions

1. Complete the Alaska Pacific University Graduate Program application
2. Include transcripts from the college or university that will reflect your bachelor’s degree
3. Pass the PRAXIS I or other state approved qualifying exam with scores at or above the Alaska requirements
4. Provide a copy of an Alaska State Troopers Background Check to APU’s Education Department
5. Provide references from three (3) education professionals

• If you are applying from outside of Alaska, please send in a background check from your current state of residence. You will be asked to send in an Alaska background check before beginning your student teaching once you are enrolled in the CO-OP.