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The Standard Pa Application form is a comprehensive document designed for individuals seeking teaching positions within Pennsylvania public schools, highlighting the necessity for a thorough presentation of qualifications and background. Applicants are encouraged to specify their desired teaching positions, grade preferences, and subjects they are interested in teaching. Additionally, the form delves into the academic and professional background of the applicants, requesting information on their educational qualifications, teaching certifications, and previous employment history, including reasons for leaving past positions. It also inquires about the applicant's eligibility to work in terms of tenure and certification, especially focusing on those who may have certificates from states other than Pennsylvania. An essential part of the form gathers detailed personal history that could influence their hiring potential, including criminal offenses, professional discipline, and any previous terminations or resignations under duress. Prospective teachers must also provide clearances like the ACT 34, ACT 114, and ACT 151 to prove they have no background of criminal activity or child abuse. Furthermore, the form requires the submission of an essay, references that can vouch for the applicant's professional competence, special skills, and any additional information that might bolster their application. The form concludes with a certification and release authorization section, underlining the importance of truthfulness and accuracy in the information provided and granting permission for the verification of such data, thereby underscoring the rigorous screening process for educators in Pennsylvania.

Preview - Standard Pa Application Form

STANDARD APPLICATION

For Teaching Positions in Pennsylvania Public Schools

(PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE)

POSITION(S) DESIRED

NAME

 

LAST

FIRST

MIDDLE

 

 

PROFESSIONAL PERSONNEL ID

PRESENT ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STREET

 

 

 

 

(AREA CODE) TELEPHONE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY

STATE

 

 

ZIP CODE

PERMANENT ADDRESS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STREET

 

 

 

(AREA CODE) TELEPHONE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ZIP CODE

 

 

 

CITY

STATE

 

 

E-MAIL ADDRESS (IF AVAILABLE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIST, IN ORDER OF PREFERENCE, THE GRADES, SUBJECTS AND/OR POSITIONS FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING:

1.

2.

3.

 

 

 

 

 

CERTIFICATION

(LIST ALL AREAS IN WHICH YOU HOLD VALID PENNSYLVANIA AND/OR OUT-OF-STATE TEACHING CERTIFICATES. NOTE: APPLICANTS HOLDING A CERTIFICATE FROM ANOTHER STATE MUST OBTAIN A PENNSYLVANIA CERTIFICATE IN ORDER TO TEACH IN PENNSYLVANIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS.)

AREA OF CERTIFICATION

ISSUING STATE

DATE ISSUED

HAVE YOU ACQUIRED TENURE IN PENNSYLVANIA? IF YES, IN WHAT SCHOOL DISTRICT?

DATE AVAILABLE FOR EMPLOYMENT

IF YOU ARE NOT EMPLOYED FULL TIME, ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BEING PLACED ON OUR

LONG-TERMYES NO

SUBSTITUTE LIST? SHORT-TERM

YES NO

YES NO

PDE 353A (12/03/13)

1

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

 

 

 

 

DIPLOMAS,

 

GRADE POINT

 

 

MAJOR/

SCHOOL OR INSTITUTION AND LOCATION

 

 

DEGREES OR

 

AVERAGE

 

MINOR

 

 

 

 

 

CREDITS EARNED

 

(GPA)

 

 

 

 

 

HIGH SCHOOL

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY

GRADUATE STUDY

GRADUATE STUDY

EXPERIENCE

(PRESENT OR MOST RECENT FIRST)

Dates

Name of Employer and Address

Your Title

From

 

 

To

(Area Code) Telephone:

 

 

 

 

Work Performed:

Reason for Leaving:

Name & Title of

 

Final Yearly

Supervisor:

 

Salary:

Dates

Name of Employer and Address

Your Title

From

 

 

To

(Area Code) Telephone:

 

 

 

 

Work Performed:

Reason for Leaving:

Name & Title of

 

Final Yearly

Supervisor:

 

Salary:

Dates

Name of Employer and Address

Your Title

From

 

 

To

(Area Code) Telephone:

 

 

 

 

Work Performed:

Reason for Leaving:

Name &Title of

Supervisor:

Final Yearly

Salary:

Please list activities that you are qualified to supervise or coach:

PDE 353A (12/03/13)

2

If you have not been previously employed in a teaching position, please complete the following:

STUDENT OR PRACTICE TEACHING

GRADE OR SUBJECT

TAUGHT

NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOL

1.COLLEGE SUPERVISOR

2.COOPERATING TEACHER

1.

2.

1.

2.

Student Teaching References:

Please attach photocopies of letters of reference and/or evaluations from college/university student teacher supervisor and cooperating teacher(s).

REFERENCES

References should include superintendents, principals or professors who have first-hand knowledge of your professional competence and your personal qualifications. Experienced teachers should include the superintendent and principal of the two most recent schools in which employed. If any person(s) listed should not be contacted for reference at the present time, indicate in the left-hand margin the date contact(s) may be made.

NAME

POSITION

ADDRESS

TELEPHONE

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

Summarize special job-related skills and qualifications acquired from employment or other experiences (including U.S. military service) and/or state any additional information you feel may be helpful in considering your application, i.e. honors, awards, activities, technology skills or professional development activities:

PDE 353A (12/03/13)

3

GENERAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION

You must give complete answers to all questions. If you answer "Yes" to any question, you must list all offenses, and for each conviction provide date of conviction and disposition, regardless of the date or location of occurrence. Conviction of a criminal offense is not a bar to employment in all cases. Each case is considered on its merits. Your answers will be verified with appropriate police records.

Criminal Offense includes felonies, misdemeanors, summary offenses and convictions resulting from a plea of "nolo contendere" (no contest).

Conviction is an adjudication of guilt and includes determinations before a court, a district justice or a magistrate, which results in a fine, sentence or probation.

You may omit: minor traffic violations, offenses committed before your 18th birthday which were adjudicated in juvenile court or under a Youth Offender Law, and any convictions which have been expunged by a court or for which you successfully completed an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program.

Were you ever convicted of a criminal offense?

Are you currently under charges for a criminal offense?

Have you ever forfeited bond or collateral in connection with a criminal offense?

Within the last ten years, have you been fired from any job for any reason?

Within the last ten years, have you quit a job after being notified that you would be fired?

Have you ever been professionally disciplined in any state?

Professional disciplined means the annulment, revocation or suspension of your teaching certification or having received a letter of reprimand from an agency, board or commission of state government, such as the Pennsylvania Professional Standards and Practices Commission.

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes Yes

Yes

No

No

No

No No

No

Are you subject to any visa or immigration status, which would prevent lawful employment?

Yes

No

Note: If you answered "Yes" to any of the above questions, please provide a detailed explanation on a separate sheet of paper, including dates, and attach it to this application. Please print and sign your name on the sheet, and include your social security number.

PDE 353A (12/03/13)

4

ACT 34 Clearance (PA State Police Criminal Background Check)

Each applicant must submit with his/her employment application a copy of a Criminal History Record from the Pennsylvania State Police. Prospective employees must submit ORIGINAL report, which may not be more than one (1) year old.

*************************************************

ACT 114 (Federal Criminal History Record)

Each applicant must submit with his/her employment application a copy of a Federal Criminal Record from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Prospective employees must submit ORIGINAL report, which may not be more than one (1) year old.

***********************************************

ACT 151 Clearance (PA Child Abuse History Clearance)

Each candidate must submit with his/her employment application a copy of an official clearance from the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. Prospective employees must submit ORIGINAL report, which may not be more than one (1) year old.

**************************************************

ESSAY

Please write an essay as described on page six. For your convenience, you may attach a sheet; however, your essay may not exceed one page. At the bottom of the attachment, please print and sign your name.

*******************************************

CERTIFICATION AND RELEASE AUTHORIZATION

I certify that all of the statements made by me are true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, and are made in good faith. I further certify that I am the sole author of the essay. I understand that any misrepresentation of information shall be sufficient cause for: (1) rejecting my candidacy, (2) withdrawing of any offer of employment, or (3) terminating my employment.

I hereby authorize any and all of my previous employers and/or supervisors to release any and all of my personnel records, and to respond fully and completely to all questions that officials of____________ (school

district) may ask regarding my prior work history and performance. I will hold such previous employers and/or supervisors harmless of any and all claims that I might otherwise have against them with regard to statements made to this school district. I further authorize these officials to investigate my background, now or in the future, to verify the information provided and release from liability all persons and/or entities supplying information regarding my background. However, I do not authorize the production of medical records or other information, which would tend to actually identify a disability nor do I authorize inquiries which would include information related to any medical condition or medical history. Further, I do not waive any rights which I may have under state or federal law related to my right to challenge the disclosure of unlawful or inaccurate information, whether by the school district or by entities or persons providing such information to the school district, including any and all claims concerning allegations of employment discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age or disability.

Date

 

Signature of Candidate (in ink)

 

 

[Must be original]

Pennsylvania school districts shall not discriminate in their educational programs, activities or employment practices based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, ancestry or any other legally protected classification. This policy is in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act. Information relative to special accommodation, grievance procedure, and the designated responsible official for compliance with Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 may be obtained by contacting the school district.

PDE 353A (12/03/13)

5

ESSAY

We are interested in your ability to organize and express thoughts on a specific topic in a succinct manner. Please select one of the following topics and write an essay in the space provided on this page.

1.The Most Important Qualities of an Outstanding Educator.

2.My Philosophy of Student Discipline.

3.The Importance of Continuing Professional Development and How I Plan to Incorporate It Throughout My Career.

4.Essential Elements of Instruction, Administration or Area of Certification.

5.How Information Technology (i.e., computers, Internet) Can Be Integrated into the Instructional Process and Curriculum.

Signature

 

Name

Note to applicants: This application can be downloaded from the Department of Education's home page which is accessible at: http://www.state.pa.us.

This application was developed, in accordance with Section 1204.1 of Act 107 of 1996, by the Pennsylvania Department of Education is consultation with organizations representing school administrators, including personnel administrators, teachers and school boards. Questions should be referred to PDE School Services Office at Voice Telephone (717) 787-4860, Text Telephone TTY (717) 783-8445 or FAX (717) 783-6802. If you need accommodation in completing this application, including alternate format, please contact the school district.

PDE-353A (12/03/13)

Download Standard Pa Application PDF Form

Form Data

Fact Detail
Form Identifier PDE 353A
Last Revision Date December 03, 2013
Purpose Application for Teaching Positions in Pennsylvania Public Schools
Submission Requirement Printed or Typed
Areas of Certification Requirement Valid Pennsylvania and/or Out-of-State Teaching Certificates
Background Check Requirement ACT 34, ACT 114, and ACT 151 Clearances
Essay Requirement Mandatory, not to exceed one page
Professional Discipline Disclosure Requirement to disclose any professional discipline, including certification annulment, revocation, or suspension
Equal Opportunity Statement Non-discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, ancestry, or any other legally protected classification

Instructions on Utilizing Standard Pa Application

Filling out the Standard PA Application for teaching positions in Pennsylvania public schools requires attention to detail and clarity. This application form is a crucial step in the hiring process, allowing candidates to present their professional credentials, educational background, and certifications. It's important that the information provided is accurate and complete to ensure a smooth evaluation process. Following the outlined steps carefully will help candidates submit a well-prepared application.

  1. Start by entering the position(s) desired, listing your preferences in the order you most prefer.
  2. Fill in your name (last, first, middle) and your Professional Personnel ID if you have one.
  3. Provide your present address, including street, city, state, zip code, and telephone number. Do the same for your permanent address if it's different.
  4. If available, enter your e-mail address.
  5. List the grades, subjects, and/or positions you are applying for, in order of preference.
  6. Under certification, note all areas in which you hold valid Pennsylvania and/or out-of-state teaching certificates. Mention the issuing state and the date issued. If applicable, state if you have acquired tenure in Pennsylvania, including the school district and date available for employment.
  7. Specify if you are interested in being placed on the long-term or short-term substitute list.
  8. Detail your educational background, listing diplomas, degrees, or credits earned, including GPA for high school and any college/university or graduate study attended.
  9. For your work experience, start with the most recent position. Include dates, employer name and address, title, responsibilities, reason for leaving, and final yearly salary. Repeat this step for up to two more previous positions.
  10. List any activities you are qualified to supervise or coach.
  11. If applicable, complete the section for student or practice teaching, including the grade or subject taught, name and address of the school, college supervisor, and cooperating teacher.
  12. Attach photocopies of references from superintendents, principals, or professors who can attest to your professional and personal qualifications. Experienced teachers should include references from the superintendents and principals of their two most recent schools.
  13. Summarize other qualifications, such as special job-related skills, honors, awards, activities, technology skills, and professional development activities.
  14. Answer all questions in the General Background Information section truthfully. If applicable, provide detailed explanations on a separate sheet.
  15. Ensure you have attached the required clearances: ACT 34 Clearance (PA State Police Criminal Background Check), ACT 114 (Federal Criminal History Record), and ACT 151 Clearance (PA Child Abuse History Clearance).
  16. Complete the essay as described, making sure it doesn't exceed one page. Print and sign your name at the bottom of the page.
  17. Read the Certification and Release Authorization. Sign and date the form, acknowledging your understanding and agreement.

Once you have completed all the steps, review each section to ensure accuracy before submitting. The thorough completion of this application is a vital step in showcasing your qualifications and fit for the desired teaching position.

Obtain Answers on Standard Pa Application

  1. What is the Standard PA Application Form?

    The Standard PA Application Form is a document designed for individuals seeking teaching positions in Pennsylvania public schools. It requires applicants to provide comprehensive details about their educational background, certifications, employment history, and more, to be considered for employment.

  2. Who needs to complete the Standard PA Application Form?

    Anyone interested in applying for a teaching position within Pennsylvania's public schools should complete the Standard PA Application Form. This includes both in-state and out-of-state candidates who must obtain Pennsylvania certification to teach in the state.

  3. What information is required on the application?

    The application requests various information, including personal details, desired teaching positions, professional certifications, educational background, employment history, specific qualifications such as activities you are qualified to supervise or coach, and student or practice teaching experience. Additionally, applicants must answer questions regarding their general background, including any criminal history.

  4. Do I need to attach any certifications or clearances with my application?

    Yes. Applicants must submit original copies of their Act 34 Clearance (PA State Police Criminal Background Check), Act 114 Clearance (Federal Criminal History Record), and Act 151 Clearance (PA Child Abuse History Clearance) along with their application. Each clearance should not be more than one year old.

  5. Can out-of-state teaching certificates be accepted?

    While applicants may list out-of-state teaching certificates on the form, they must obtain a valid Pennsylvania teaching certificate to teach in Pennsylvania public schools.

  6. What happens if I have a criminal record?

    Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify an applicant. Each case is assessed on its own merits. However, full disclosure of the offense(s) is required. Minor traffic violations, offenses committed before your 18th birthday that were adjudicated in juvenile court, or those expunged or resolved through an Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program, may be omitted.

  7. Is there a section to list references?

    Yes. Applicants need to provide references, including superintendents, principals, or professors who can vouch for their professional competence and personal qualifications. Experienced teachers are advised to list superintendents and principals from their two most recent schools of employment.

  8. What should I do if I'm interested in substitute teaching?

    In the section asking about employment interest, there are options to indicate if you are interested in being placed on the long-term or short-term substitute list. Mark ‘Yes’ as appropriate to your interest.

  9. How do I submit my application?

    After completing and signing the application, you should submit it to the specific school district(s) where you are seeking employment. Remember to attach any required documents, such as your clearances, certifications, and essay where requested.

Common mistakes

    When filling out the Standard PA Application for teaching positions in Pennsylvania public schools, applicants often make several common mistakes. Addressing these issues can significantly enhance the chances of success in securing a teaching position. Below is a detailed list of eight mistakes to avoid:

  1. Not printing clearly or typing: The application instructs to PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE, yet many applicants fill out the form in handwriting that is difficult to read, which can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations of the provided information.

  2. Leaving sections blank: Every section of the form is important. Applicants sometimes skip sections they find irrelevant or are unsure about. If a section does not apply, it's better to write "N/A" (Not Applicable) than to leave it blank.

  3. Incomplete certification information: The application requires details on all areas of certification, including state and date issued. Often, applicants will list their certificates but omit the issuing state or date, which is crucial for verifying qualifications.

  4. Failing to attach required documentation: References, student teaching references, and photocopies of teaching certificates are examples of documents that must be attached. Applicants frequently miss one or more required attachments, which can delay the application process.

  5. Misunderstanding the criminal background section: Applicants must disclose any criminal offenses as specified in the form, yet some misunderstand which offenses need to be disclosed. It's important to read this section carefully and disclose any criminal offense, excluding those explicitly mentioned as omissible.

  6. Not providing detailed explanations for "Yes" responses in the general background information section: When answering "Yes" to any question in this section, a detailed explanation on a separate sheet is required. Applicants sometimes fail to provide enough detail or omit the explanation entirely.

  7. Omitting contact information for references: It's essential to list superintendents, principals, or professors who know the applicant's professional and personal qualifications. Sometimes, applicants forget to include critical contact information like addresses and telephone numbers for their references.

  8. Ignoring special instructions for essay submission: The essay should not exceed one page, and the applicant's name should be printed and signed at the bottom. Applicants often overlook these requirements, which can result in the essay being disregarded.

By avoiding these mistakes, applicants can submit a more compelling and complete application, improving their chances of securing a teaching position in Pennsylvania's public schools.

Documents used along the form

When individuals embark on the journey to secure teaching positions within Pennsylvania's public schools, submitting a Standard Application for Teaching Positions is a critical step. However, this application represents just one part of a larger mosaic of documentation required to paint a complete picture of a candidate's qualifications, background, and legal eligibility for employment. Among these additional forms and documents, each plays a vital role in ensuring that candidates are fully vetted and that schools comply with state and federal regulations regarding employment.

  • Act 34 Clearance: This document is a Criminal History Record from the Pennsylvania State Police. It is indispensable as it assures the school district of the applicant's clean criminal record, or presents any records that need to be considered. This clearance is necessary not just for teachers, but for all employees in positions that entail direct contact with children.
  • Act 114 Clearance: Another critical piece of documentation is the Federal Criminal History Record obtained from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Similar to the Act 34 clearance, this document provides a broader, nationwide perspective on the applicant's criminal history, ensuring that no significant issues are overlooked.
  • Act 151 Clearance: To further ensure the safety of students, the Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance from the Department of Human Services is required. This clearance demonstrates that the applicant has not been involved in any child abuse cases, providing peace of mind to employers and protecting the welfare of students.
  • Professional References and Credentials: While not a specific form, professional references and documented credentials are imperative. These documents and letters corroborate the applicant's experience, expertise, and professionalism in their field. References from supervisors, principals, or professors paint a detailed picture of the applicant's capabilities and achievements.

Incorporating these documents with the Standard Application forms a robust portfolio that aids school districts in making informed hiring decisions. It is through the diligent collection and review of these documents that schools can ensure a safe, competent, and dedicated teaching staff. This intricate process highlights the shared responsibility among applicants and educational institutions to prioritize the well-being and development of students.

Similar forms

  • The General Job Application is similar to the Standard PA Application form as both collect basic personal information, employment history, and education background. These documents aim to provide a comprehensive view of the candidate's qualifications for a position.

  • Resume/CV (Curriculum Vitae) shares similarities with the Standard PA Application, especially in the segments where educational qualifications and work experiences are detailed. However, resumes and CVs offer more flexibility in formatting and can be tailored to highlight the candidate's strengths.

  • The College or University Application form resembles the Standard PA Application in its request for academic history and extracurricular activities. Both seek to gauge the applicant’s qualifications and readiness for the position or program they are applying for.

  • A Teacher Certification Application is closely related to the Standard PA Application form, particularly in the sections that require information on areas of certification and licensure. These forms are crucial for verifying the applicant's eligibility to teach within certain jurisdictions.

  • The Background Check Authorization Form is echoed in the section of the Standard PA Application that covers criminal history and clearances. Both documents seek legal consent to verify the applicant's criminal record for suitability in environments like schools that require high trustworthiness.

  • Professional Reference List bears similarity to the section in the Standard PA Application where references are listed. These references provide insights into the applicant’s work ethic, professional competencies, and personal qualities.

  • The Teacher Credential File, often used in higher education or specialized districts, parallels the comprehensive nature of the Standard PA Application by collecting detailed professional, educational, and personal qualifications of educators.

  • Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) shares a core purpose with the Standard PA Application’s section on visa or immigration status, which is to confirm the legal employment eligibility of the candidate in the United States.

  • A Grant Application for educational or research funding, while focused more on project proposals, can resemble the essay section of the Standard PA Application. Both require clear expression of the candidate's ideas, plans, and qualifications.

  • The Volunteer Application Form used by many organizations, including schools for after-school programs, shares the aspect of background checks, personal information, interests, and skills with the Standard PA Application, aiming to assess the volunteer's fit and reliability for roles involving children or sensitive information.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the Standard PA Application for teaching positions in Pennsylvania public schools, it is essential to approach the task with diligence and care. The following are guidelines to assist applicants in ensuring their applications are both comprehensive and compelling.

  • Do:
  • Print or type the information clearly to ensure legibility.
  • Fill out every section completely, leaving no blanks unless specified.
  • List your qualifications and certifications accurately, including all areas in which you hold valid Pennsylvania and/or out-of-state teaching certificates.
  • Attach photocopies of letters of reference and/or evaluations as requested, especially those from college/university student teacher supervisors and cooperating teachers for recent graduates or those new to the teaching profession.
  • Provide detailed explanations, on a separate sheet if necessary, for any affirmative answers to questions in the General Background Information section, ensuring transparency and completeness.
  • Check that all the dates, names, addresses, and contact information provided are correct and up-to-date.
  • Sign the Certification and Release Authorization section with an original signature in ink.
  • Include the original copies of required clearances (ACT 34, ACT 114, and ACT 151) as specified by the application instructions, ensuring they are not more than one (1) year old.
  • Review your application thoroughly before submission, checking for errors or omissions.
  • Retain a copy of your completed application and all attachments for your records.
  • Don't:
  • Leave sections incomplete unless the form expressly states that the section is optional or not applicable.
  • Forget to attach required documents, such as letters of reference, certifications, or clearances.
  • Overlook the need to disclose any criminal history or disciplinary actions. Honesty in these sections is critical.
  • Rush through the essay portion of the application. Take your time to craft thoughtful and professional responses.
  • Submit the application without ensuring that all information provided is accurate and truthful.
  • Submit without ensuring that all sections, essays, and necessary signatures are completed.
  • Overlook minor errors or typos. These small mistakes can detract from the professionalism of your application.
  • Use informal language or abbreviations that might not be understood universally.
  • Miss the deadline for application submission. Late applications are often not considered.
  • Fail to follow up after submission if confirmation of receipt is not received within a reasonable time frame.

Misconceptions

Many applicants and educators harbor misconceptions about the Standard PA Application form for teaching positions in Pennsylvania public schools. These misunderstandings can potentially hinder one's ability to present themselves accurately and effectively throughout the application process. Here, we aim to clarify some of these common misconceptions.

  • It's only for first-time teachers: A prevalent misconception is that the Standard PA Application form is intended solely for individuals seeking their first teaching position. In truth, this form is a comprehensive tool used by both novice and experienced educators to apply for new positions across Pennsylvania's public schools. It allows applicants to list their complete educational background, certifications, and teaching experiences, serving as a one-size-fits-all document that supports candidates at various stages of their careers.

  • Out-of-state certifications are irrelevant: Another misunderstanding is that only Pennsylvania certifications matter when filling out the application. However, the form explicitly requests information on "all areas in which you hold valid Pennsylvania and/or out-of-state teaching certificates." This inclusive approach recognizes the value of out-of-state certifications while also reminding applicants that they must obtain Pennsylvania certification to teach in the state's public schools.

  • Student teaching experience is not as important: The significance of student teaching or practice teaching experiences is sometimes underestimated by applicants. The form dedicates a section to these experiences, indicating their importance in the application process. It requires details such as the grade or subject taught and the names and addresses of the schools. This information is critical, as it provides evidence of practical teaching experience and exposure to real classroom environments.

  • The essay is optional: Some applicants might mistakenly believe that the essay component of the application is optional or merely a formality. On the contrary, the essay is a required part of the application, offering a unique opportunity to convey one's philosophy of education, instructional strategies, and visions for impacting student learning and school communities positively. As such, it should be approached with thoughtful consideration and effort.

Understanding these misconceptions and approaching the Standard PA Application with accurate knowledge and preparation can significantly enhance an applicant's prospects in the competitive arena of public school teaching positions in Pennsylvania.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Standard PA Application form is a crucial step for educators seeking teaching positions within Pennsylvania public schools. This comprehensive form captures your professional and academic background, certifications, and more. Here are five key takeaways to consider while completing the application:

  • Detail Your Preferences and Certifications Clearly: The form allows you to list, in order of preference, the grades, subjects, and/or positions you are interested in. This is your opportunity to specify where you believe your strengths and interests lie. Additionally, it's important to comprehensively list all areas of certification, including those from other states, ensuring you meet the necessary Pennsylvania certification requirements.
  • Provide a Thorough Educational and Professional Background: When detailing your educational and professional history, be as comprehensive as possible. This includes listing all degrees, grade point averages, and any relevant experiences that could make your application stand out. Experience beyond direct classroom teaching, such as student or practice teaching experiences, should also be included to provide a full picture of your qualifications.
  • Be Honest and Comprehensive in the General Background Information Section: Transparency is key when answering questions about your background. Being upfront about any past convictions or professional discipline is critical, as each case is assessed on its merits. Failure to disclose such information may have serious implications for your application.
  • Ensure All Required Clearances and Essays Are Attached: The application requires several clearances, including from the Pennsylvania State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. It's vital to submit these original documents, ensuring they are no more than one year old. Additionally, attaching the requested essay, as per the guidelines provided, is essential. This essay is your chance to express in your own words why you're a great fit for the teaching profession.
  • Review the Certification and Release Authorization Section Carefully: This part of the form requires your signature, certifying that all information provided is truthful to the best of your knowledge. It's not only about attesting to the accuracy of your application but also about authorizing previous employers and references to share information about your work history and performance. Pay attention to the rights reserved regarding the disclosure of information, including medical records and conditions.

Completing the Standard PA Application form with attention to detail and honesty can significantly influence your journey towards securing a teaching position in Pennsylvania. It's an opportunity to present your qualifications and passion for education comprehensively. Therefore, take your time to ensure every section is filled out correctly, and every required document is attached before submission.

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