PRPIL Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the process take?

The process takes approximately four to nine months, from the time of acceptance of your application until your completed portfolio is submitted to Class Measures for final review. The three Instrucational Consultant observations must take place at least one month apart.

How do I pay?

Class Measures accepts payment in the form of checks, money orders, Mastercard, Visa and Discover. We do not accept American Express. Checks should be made payable to "Class Measures".

Does Class Measures offer college credit?

No.

How do I advance two Licenses at a time?

Teacher Candidates can advance one subject and grade level range on their Preliminary License through PRPIL. For further information on advancing two licenses, please contact the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) teacher licensure hotline at 781-338-6600.

How do I find a mentor?

Teacher Candidates are responsible for finding their own mentor. The mentor selected must hold at least an Initial License, preferably in the area of the Teacher Candidate's Preliminary License; be a teacher of high quality standing and who has received the support of the Teacher Candidate's Principal; and carry out all responsibilities. If the Teacher Candidate is unable to find a mentor with a license in the same area as the Teacher Candidate's Preliminary License, Class Measures will work with the Teacher Candidate and assign an Instructional Consultant with the same area licensure.

How do I learn more about the compiling of my portfolio?

Class Measures holds four (4) Portfolio Review Sessions. Two (2) of the sessions are scheduled in the Woburn office. One (1) session is scheduled in the Worcester area and (1) one session is scheduled in the Springfield area. Dates vary per year. If the Teacher Candidate is unable to attend a Portfolio Review Session, arrangements can be made to have the Teacher Candidate review portfolios at Class Measures' Woburn office.

How do I know if I am eligible for the Program?

Eligibility information is detailed on this website. From the home page, click on "PRPIL - Route 4 to Initial Teacher Licensure" and scroll down to "Who is Eligible".

When can I enroll in PRPIL?

Teacher Candidates may enroll in PRPIL as early as their second year of full time teaching under the Preliminary License. However, providing all requirements are met, the endorsement for an Initial License cannot be submitted to the DESE until completion of the third year of teaching in the role of the Preliminary License.

How do I know if a course is accepted as pedagogy?

Generally, education courses are considered pedagogy. The courses must deal with the "how" of teaching as opposed to the "what" of teaching. Examples of such courses would be: Skillful Teaching, Behavior Management, Motivating the Learner, and Differentiated Instruction. Our staff will be happy to clarify concerns regarding specific courses.

How do I know when my Instructional Consultant will conduct the three classroom observations?

Your Instructional Consultant will contact you, and the two of you will coordinate dates and times for your classroom observations, which must take place at least one month apart. Your mentor may be present at these observations as well. If your mentor cannot meet with you at the times scheduled for your Instructional Consultant, you may schedule classroom observations with just your mentor. It is suggested that you schedule more than 3 observation times, in case an observation needs to be cancelled.

How do I apply for an Initial License with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education?

Teacher Candidates are encouraged to apply for their Initial License upon acceptance into PRPIL or at any stage during the program. Although Teacher Candidates will receive a letter from the DESE rejecting their request for an Initial License, the Teacher Candidate's name will be entered in the DESE system and the Initial License will be granted once the Class Measures endorsement form is received and processed. Please apply on-line to the DESE at the following link. (http://www.doe.mass.edu/ops/PoliciesFormsFees.html?section=forms.)

My Preliminary License has or will be expiring, what do I do?

Once it has been established that you meet the requirements for PRPIL, you should contact your school or district's Human Resources Department and inform them that you have been accepted in the program. Your school/district should work with you regarding your expired license.

How long does it take for me to receive my Initial License after I have completed the Program?

The timing for receiving your Initial License depends on the time of year and the number of licenses the DESE must process. Most licenses are mailed within 3-4 weeks.

Will my Initial License (obtained via PRPIL) be valid in any other state?

Please contact the Department of Education of the state in question and ask them for their reciprocity details.

I have my Preliminary License, but never did student teaching, can I still apply?

Yes, PRPIL is an alternate route for those who did not complete student teaching or a teaching practicum.

What is the best way to get my portfolio to Class Measures?

There are two options for delivering your portfolio to Class Measures. Option 1 is for the Teacher Candidate to have the portfolio mailed to Class Measures either via UPS, Fed Ex or United States Postal Service. Option 2 is for the Teacher Candidate to hand-deliver the portfolio to the Woburn office. Please contact the office at 781-939-5699 to make arrangements for dropping off your portfolio.

How is my portfolio returned to me?

Your portfolio will be returned to you by mail after review by the PRPIL committee.