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Alternative Routes to Certification

In the State of Kentucky, there are several options that lead to teacher certification. Several colleges and universities offer Teacher Education programs through traditional bachelor’s or master’s degree programs. Most also offer alternative routes to teacher certification. This website offers information and links to programs approved by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board. Information for each program should be verified with each university/program contact. In most cases, Jefferson County Public Schools works in cooperation with universities to hire individuals who are pursuing alternative routes to certification in areas that are of a critical need for the school district.
Individuals interested in pursuing an alternative route to certification should have either a degree or major from an accredited university in the field in which they want to teach. Specific prerequisites can be obtained from each program.

It is the policy of Jefferson County Public Schools not to issue emergency teaching certificates for individuals wishing to pursue an alternative route to certification.

University Partners

Contact (click on the name below to e-mail the contact person)

Bellarmine University

Theresa Klapheke

Campbellsville University

Norma Wheat

Georgetown University

Debbie Schumacher

Spalding University

Carletta Bell

University of Louisville

Jan Calvert


 Information on additional Programs can be found at the Education Professional standards Board website

Proof of admission to a university-based alternative route program is required before one can be considered for employment with Jefferson County Public Schools.

District-Based Alternative Route Program

ACES is a certification only district-based program. This 18-month program requires a commitment to the certification process and a three-year commitment to teaching in Jefferson County Public Schools. This route is for individuals interested in certification in the following areas: Elementary Education, Math (Middle and High), Science (Middle and High), and dual certification (Middle and High).