Adding a Content Area to a Certificate (existing credential)

Since 1, 2003, the Pennsylvania Department of Education has permitted teachers   to add some "content" areas to their existing Instructional I certificates by fulfilling the criteria below.  Note that this unique option does not require specific coursework or a recommendation from traditional teacher preparation institutions such as Penn State.

Additional Instructional I "content" areas can be added to an existing, valid Pa. Instructional certificate where:
1. PRAXIS tests are already in existence and used in PA,
2. the PRAXIS test assesses academic "content",
3. Pennsylvania has established Qualifying Scores and,
4. it is a "content" area OTHER THAN the following areas:
Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, Health and Physical Education, Reading Specialist, Safety-Driver Education and all areas related to Special Education including Teaching Speech/Language Impairments.

Adding foreign language areas other than French, German and Spanish will require taking and passing a PRAXIS, or other professional test such as the ACTFL, which assesses foreign language "content".

Individuals may add an approved Instructional I "content" area to an existing certificate by sending directly to PDE: a copy of their PRAXIS score report with the PDE application form "338G"(Add-On Form), a copy of their Instructional I certificate, and a Postal Money Order for $40.00 payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Note: Currently enrolled certification candidates may complete the PRAXIS test(s), and then apply for the addi