Greetings Utah Educators and Leaders!
As we move into “The Near Future,” services are becoming more available; educator-related services are included! Specifically, fingerprinting services and testing services are now opening! Hooray!!!
Some fingerprinting locations have started processing fingerprints on a limited basis. Please encourage educators who need to complete a background check to call ahead to verify hours and operation precautions, such as wearing a face mask. If your LEA is doing fingerprinting, please work to establish policies and procedures, including the use of appropriate PPE (gloves, masks, etc.), to keep your employees and those you serve safe.
ETS has announced the Praxis® tests at home solution in response to closures of testing centers. Registration for the first wave of tests begins on May 15 with the first test administration taking place on May 18. While not all of the content assessments will be offered in the first wave of tests at home, most will be available by June 1st. ETS’ COVID-19 website has been updated with some key information regarding the at home solution.
As you encourage your educators to meet requirements for licensure, including background checks and testing, the Educator Licensing team is optimistic that these adjustments will help educators become appropriately licensed prior to the upcoming school year. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I know that many changes to licensing (an already complicated arena) lend itself to more questions. We are here to help you support teachers!
Thank you for all that you do to support Utah’s students and teachers! We will charge into “The New Future” together!
Kindest regards,
Malia Hite, Ed.D.
Educator Licensing Coordinator
Teaching & Learning | Utah State Board of Education