Transition to Teaching

Illinois State Board of Education BECCA Bilingual Early Childhood Certification Assistance Program An Alternative Route to Teacher Certification
Home How it Works Who's Eligible? How to Apply FAQs Curriculum Contact Us If you are looking for the BTTT (K-8) program, click here.		Frequently Asked Questions Is there a guide sheet that would help me see the process that an accepted participant would go through in a program like this? This is the timeline/checklist that we give participants in order to help guide them through the program: BECCA Timeline/Checklist What degree will I receive for completing the BECCA program? Scholars will receive a MS Ed. in Literacy Education w/Type 04 Cert. plus ESL/Bilingual Approval Education. Where will classes be held? At the University Center of Lake County. How many times a week do I meet for classes? You will usually meet for two courses per regular semester and two courses over the summer. Classes are held two evenings per week (usually from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.). What are the benefits of the BECCA program? Free graduate school tuition. Classes held at a convenient location in Grayslake. Classes held at convenient times in the evening. A teaching assignment that allows you to work while you learn. Benefits of increased earning potential (salary increase with a master's degree). Quality professional development opportunities. Tailored academic advising. E-mentoring through Moodle. Exactly how much of the tuition does the Bilingual Transition to Teaching program cover? All courses are covered.. Please keep in mind that books, transportation to your designated cohort location, and testing fees are incurred by the program participant not by the program. Is there an application fee? No. Are there other costs associated with the program? As with any graduate school program, students will be required to purchase textbooks and other materials needed for their classes. What are the eligibility requirements? To be eligible for the Transition to Teaching program, you must have a bachelor's degree in any field, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and be a permanent resident or citizen of the United States . To continue in the program, you must be able to pass the Illinois Basic Skills and Target Language Proficiency tests in one of the program's approved languages. Please note that permanent residents will have to sign an affidavit stating that they will seek citizenship within 10 years. What are the requirements for a student from a non-English-speaking institution? Non-native speakers of English must demonstrate that their command of the English language is adequate to engage in graduate coursework. Students who have degrees from non-English speaking institutions will be required to submit an official transcript evaluated by an evaluation service like Educational Credential Evaluators www.ece.org In addition to the evaluation, you must present your original diploma and transcripts accompanied by a certified translation. Please note that an evaluation is different than a certified translation. You must present all documents in person at NIU so that your degrees may be attested by a designated NIU staff member. Demonstration of command of the language can be provided by submitting TOEFL exam scores. The TOEFL exam is offered by the Educational Testing Service as a paper-based, computer-based, or internet-based exam depending on availability in your area. Use the institution code 1559 to ensure that your test is sent to NIU, and use ETS resources to determine the appropriate departmental code. NIU considers TOEFL scores to be valid for two years. The Graduate School has established minimum scores on the TOEFL for admission purposes, no other arrangements will be made. If you feel your English competency level would not allow you admission into the graduate school, we encourage you to take a preparation course and apply at a later date. What is considered an Official English Translation? NIU requests English Translations of your academic work. An Official English Translation is a document translated from an original transcript. This must be translated by a translating company, or the Institution the transcript came from. NIU does not accept Translations issued from students What type of certification is offered through this program? Scholars who successfully complete the program earn elementary teacher certification (Type 04) with Bilingual and ESL approvals. Do I have to quit my job to participate in the program? No, at least not yet. The program is designed to accommodate full-time professionals. Most participants continue in their current job until they are able to secure a full-time teaching position, which must occur within one calendar year of enrolling in the program. Unlike in many alternative certification programs, Bilingual Transition to Teaching participants do not have to sacrifice their income to go back to school. Is there a teaching commitment? Yes. Individuals accepted into the program must commit to teaching in a transitional bilingual or ESL PreK-3 rd grade classroom in a publicly funded institution in either Lake or McHenry County . Does Head Start Count? Yes, securing a position at Head Start would meet the program requirement. Does the Transition to Teaching Project guarantee employment? No. The BECCA project assists applicants in their job searches, but cannot guarantee placement. While applicants enrolled in the BECCA project are eligible to apply for employment and are required to secure a position within Lake or McHenry County within one year of commencing the program, it is the responsibility of the individual applicant to pursue employment opportunities. Will I get paid to teach? Yes. All participants will receive the regular starting salary for their district plus benefits. How do I become "Highly Qualified"? In order for Bilingual Transition to Teaching participants to be considered ‘Highly Qualified’ under the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, they must meet the following requirements during their first year of admission to the program: Pass the Illinois Test of Basic Skills Pass the Target Language Proficiency Test Apply for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate Be admitted to the Northern Illinois University Graduate School Pass the Content Area Test for Elementary/Middle Grades How do I qualify for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate? To qualify for the Type 29 Certificate, an applicant must: Hold at least a bachelor's degree from the United States , or from a foreign country that is determined to be the equivalent of a bachelor's degree in the United States; AND Demonstrate adequate speaking and reading ability in the non-English language in which transitional bilingual education is offered in Illinois demonstrated through passage of the Target Language Proficiency test. Demonstrate adequate English communication skills demonstrated with a Bachelor's Degree from and accredited U.S. institution or for foreign credentials, passage of the English Proficiency test. My native language is not English. Which test do I take to qualify for the Type 29? If you received your bachelor's degree from an institution in which English is not the medium of instruction, you must take the English Language Proficiency test instead of the Target Language Proficiency test. How do I apply for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate? After successful completion of the Target Language Proficiency test, participants can apply for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate. All applicants for the Type 29 must also apply for the Type 39 Substitute Certificate. To apply in person, fill out two copies of Form 73-03C and submit them with official transcripts and the required fees in the form of a money order at the Chicago Office of the State Board of Education, 100 W. Randolph, FL 14, Chicago, IL. Residents of the City of Chicago can apply by mail by sending the above mentioned application materials directly to the Springfield Office of the State Board of Education, which is listed on the application form. Residents of other municipalities can apply by mail or in person through their Regional Office of Education. Please contact the State Board of Education, 312-814-2220, for the most up-to-date fees. Can I take the coursework at a different university? No. Northern Illinois University is currently the only institution of higher education partnered with the BECCA project. NIU has streamlined its enrollment process and has developed a specialized curriculum for BECCA participants. What happens if I do not finish the program? Any participant that does not complete the program may be required to repay to Transition to Teaching and the Illinois State Board of Education the portion of the course tuition or course contract costs incurred by his/her participation in the program. I have already applied for the program. Should I also apply to the Northern Illinois University Graduate School ? No. If accepted into the program, you will be enrolled at NIU at the orientation meeting. Do I have to take the GRE to meet NIU admissions requirements? After enrolling in the BTTT program, applicants will apply formally to NIU's Graduate School . The Graduate School requires scores from either the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Miller's Analogy Test (MAT). Although these scores are required in most cases, applications to the Graduate School are considered holistically. If you have a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution, this requirement might be waived. Do I have to take the TOEFL Exam? If your bachelor's degree is from an institution in which English was not the language of instruction, NIU requires that you take the TOEFL Exam before being considered for admission. Which certification tests will I have to take while I'm in the program? To be admitted to the teacher education program at NIU, candidates for admission must submit passing scores for the Illinois Test of Basic Skills. To qualify for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate, candidates must pass the Target Language Proficiency Test. To be considered 'highly qualified' under the No Child Left Behind Act, participants must pass the Content-Area Test for Early Childhood. Before applying for the Type 04 certificate, all teacher candidates must pass the Assessment of Professional Teaching (APT) Test. Do I have to take the Basic Skills test and the Target Language Proficiency test before I submit my application? No. However, your continuation in the program is contingent upon your ability to pass both tests in a timely fashion upon your acceptance. Can I take the Basic Skills test and the Target Language Proficiency test on the same day? Yes. The Target Language Proficiency test may be taken on the same day as the Illinois Basic Skills test, however, the Target Language Proficiency test is only offered at one location in Chicago. Can I take the Content-Area test and the Target Language Proficiency test on the same day? No. The Target Language Proficiency test can only be taken on the same day as the Basic Skills test. Can I take the Basic Skills test and the Content-Area test on the same day? Yes. The Basic Skills test and the Content-Area test can be taken on the same day throughout the state of Illinois. What is Transitional Bilingual Education (TBE)? TBE is an instructional program in which subjects are taught through two languages--English and the native language of the English language learners -- and English is taught as a second language. The primary purpose of these programs is to facilitate the LEP student's transition to an all-English instructional environment while receiving academic subject instruction in the native language to the extent necessary. Source: http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/expert/glossary.html What is ESL? English as a second language (ESL) is an educational approach in which English language learners are instructed in the use of the English language. Their instruction is based on a special curriculum that typically involves little or no use of the native language, focuses on language (as opposed to content) and is usually taught during specific school periods. For the rest of the school day, students may be placed in mainstream classrooms, an immersion program, or a bilingual education program. Every bilingual education program has an ESL component (U.S. General Accounting Office, 1994). Source: http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/expert/glossary.html Can I have a Type 29 currently and still apply to the program? Yes, but you still have to have three and a half years left on your Type 29 in order to apply. Do I need access to a computer and the internet to be a participant in this program? Absolutely yes, we use the latest technology to disseminate information about our program to participants. We also offer an e-mentor site. NIU utilizes blackboard, Live Text and other web-based programming for class instruction.
Phone: 312-814-3519 \| Fax: 312-814-8636 \| amorenon@isbe.net ISBE, English Language Learning, 100 W. Randolph, Suite 14-300, Chicago, IL 60601

Illinois State Board of Education
BECCA
Bilingual Early Childhood Certification Assistance Program
An Alternative Route to Teacher Certification

If you are looking for the BTTT (K-8) program,
click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a guide sheet that would help me see the process that an accepted participant would go through in a program like this?

This is the timeline/checklist that we give participants in order to help guide them through the program:
BECCA Timeline/Checklist

What degree will I receive for completing the BECCA program?

Scholars will receive a MS Ed. in Literacy Education w/Type 04 Cert. plus ESL/Bilingual Approval Education.

Where will classes be held?

At the University Center of Lake County.

How many times a week do I meet for classes?

You will usually meet for two courses per regular semester and two courses over the summer. Classes are held two evenings per week (usually from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.).

What are the benefits of the BECCA program?

Free graduate school tuition.
Classes held at a convenient location in Grayslake.
Classes held at convenient times in the evening.
A teaching assignment that allows you to work while you learn.
Benefits of increased earning potential (salary increase with a master's degree).
Quality professional development opportunities.
Tailored academic advising.
E-mentoring through Moodle.

Exactly how much of the tuition does the Bilingual Transition to Teaching program cover?

All courses are covered.. Please keep in mind that books, transportation to your designated cohort location, and testing fees are incurred by the program participant not by the program.

Is there an application fee?

No.

Are there other costs associated with the program?

As with any graduate school program, students will be required to purchase textbooks and other materials needed for their classes.

What are the eligibility requirements?

To be eligible for the Transition to Teaching program, you must have a bachelor's degree in any field, have at least a 3.0 GPA, and be a permanent resident or citizen of the United States . To continue in the program, you must be able to pass the Illinois Basic Skills and Target Language Proficiency tests in one of the program's approved languages. Please note that permanent residents will have to sign an affidavit stating that they will seek citizenship within 10 years.

What are the requirements for a student from a non-English-speaking institution?

Non-native speakers of English must demonstrate that their command of the English language is adequate to engage in graduate coursework. Students who have degrees from non-English speaking institutions will be required to submit an official transcript evaluated by an evaluation service like Educational Credential Evaluators www.ece.org

In addition to the evaluation, you must present your original diploma and transcripts accompanied by a certified translation. Please note that an evaluation is different than a certified translation. You must present all documents in person at NIU so that your degrees may be attested by a designated NIU staff member.

Demonstration of command of the language can be provided by submitting TOEFL exam scores. The TOEFL exam is offered by the Educational Testing Service as a paper-based, computer-based, or internet-based exam depending on availability in your area. Use the institution code 1559 to ensure that your test is sent to NIU, and use ETS resources to determine the appropriate departmental code. NIU considers TOEFL scores to be valid for two years. The Graduate School has established minimum scores on the TOEFL for admission purposes, no other arrangements will be made. If you feel your English competency level would not allow you admission into the graduate school, we encourage you to take a preparation course and apply at a later date.

What is considered an Official English Translation?

NIU requests English Translations of your academic work. An Official English Translation is a document translated from an original transcript. This must be translated by a translating company, or the Institution the transcript came from. NIU does not accept Translations issued from students

What type of certification is offered through this program?

Scholars who successfully complete the program earn elementary teacher certification (Type 04) with Bilingual and ESL approvals.

Do I have to quit my job to participate in the program?

No, at least not yet. The program is designed to accommodate full-time professionals. Most participants continue in their current job until they are able to secure a full-time teaching position, which must occur within one calendar year of enrolling in the program. Unlike in many alternative certification programs, Bilingual Transition to Teaching participants do not have to sacrifice their income to go back to school.

Is there a teaching commitment?

Yes. Individuals accepted into the program must commit to teaching in a transitional bilingual or ESL PreK-3 rd grade classroom in a publicly funded institution in either Lake or McHenry County .

Does Head Start Count?

Yes, securing a position at Head Start would meet the program requirement.

Does the Transition to Teaching Project guarantee employment?

No. The BECCA project assists applicants in their job searches, but cannot guarantee placement. While applicants enrolled in the BECCA project are eligible to apply for employment and are required to secure a position within Lake or McHenry County within one year of commencing the program, it is the responsibility of the individual applicant to pursue employment opportunities.

Will I get paid to teach?

Yes. All participants will receive the regular starting salary for their district plus benefits.

How do I become "Highly Qualified"?

In order for Bilingual Transition to Teaching participants to be considered ‘Highly Qualified’ under the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, they must meet the following requirements during their first year of admission to the program:

Pass the Illinois Test of Basic Skills
Pass the Target Language Proficiency Test
Apply for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate
Be admitted to the Northern Illinois University Graduate School
Pass the Content Area Test for Elementary/Middle Grades

How do I qualify for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate?

To qualify for the Type 29 Certificate, an applicant must:

Hold at least a bachelor's degree from the United States , or from a foreign country that is determined to be the equivalent of a bachelor's degree in the United States; AND
Demonstrate adequate speaking and reading ability in the non-English language in which transitional bilingual education is offered in Illinois demonstrated through passage of the Target Language Proficiency test.
Demonstrate adequate English communication skills demonstrated with a Bachelor's Degree from and accredited U.S. institution or for foreign credentials, passage of the English Proficiency test.

My native language is not English. Which test do I take to qualify for the Type 29?

If you received your bachelor's degree from an institution in which English is not the medium of instruction, you must take the English Language Proficiency test instead of the Target Language Proficiency test.

How do I apply for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate?

After successful completion of the Target Language Proficiency test, participants can apply for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate. All applicants for the Type 29 must also apply for the Type 39 Substitute Certificate. To apply in person, fill out two copies of Form 73-03C and submit them with official transcripts and the required fees in the form of a money order at the Chicago Office of the State Board of Education, 100 W. Randolph, FL 14, Chicago, IL.

Residents of the City of Chicago can apply by mail by sending the above mentioned application materials directly to the Springfield Office of the State Board of Education, which is listed on the application form. Residents of other municipalities can apply by mail or in person through their Regional Office of Education. Please contact the State Board of Education, 312-814-2220, for the most up-to-date fees.

Can I take the coursework at a different university?

No. Northern Illinois University is currently the only institution of higher education partnered with the BECCA project. NIU has streamlined its enrollment process and has developed a specialized curriculum for BECCA participants.

What happens if I do not finish the program?

Any participant that does not complete the program may be required to repay to Transition to Teaching and the Illinois State Board of Education the portion of the course tuition or course contract costs incurred by his/her participation in the program.

I have already applied for the program. Should I also apply to the Northern Illinois University Graduate School ?

No. If accepted into the program, you will be enrolled at NIU at the orientation meeting.

Do I have to take the GRE to meet NIU admissions requirements?

After enrolling in the BTTT program, applicants will apply formally to NIU's Graduate School . The Graduate School requires scores from either the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Miller's Analogy Test (MAT). Although these scores are required in most cases, applications to the Graduate School are considered holistically. If you have a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution, this requirement might be waived.

Do I have to take the TOEFL Exam?

If your bachelor's degree is from an institution in which English was not the language of instruction, NIU requires that you take the TOEFL Exam before being considered for admission.

Which certification tests will I have to take while I'm in the program?

To be admitted to the teacher education program at NIU, candidates for admission must submit passing scores for the Illinois Test of Basic Skills. To qualify for the Type 29 Transitional Bilingual Certificate, candidates must pass the Target Language Proficiency Test. To be considered 'highly qualified' under the No Child Left Behind Act, participants must pass the Content-Area Test for Early Childhood. Before applying for the Type 04 certificate, all teacher candidates must pass the Assessment of Professional Teaching (APT) Test.

Do I have to take the Basic Skills test and the Target Language Proficiency test before I submit my application?

No. However, your continuation in the program is contingent upon your ability to pass both tests in a timely fashion upon your acceptance.

Can I take the Basic Skills test and the Target Language Proficiency test on the same day?

Yes. The Target Language Proficiency test may be taken on the same day as the Illinois Basic Skills test, however, the Target Language Proficiency test is only offered at one location in Chicago.

Can I take the Content-Area test and the Target Language Proficiency test on the same day?

No. The Target Language Proficiency test can only be taken on the same day as the Basic Skills test.

Can I take the Basic Skills test and the Content-Area test on the same day?

Yes. The Basic Skills test and the Content-Area test can be taken on the same day throughout the state of Illinois.

What is Transitional Bilingual Education (TBE)?

TBE is an instructional program in which subjects are taught through two languages--English and the native language of the English language learners -- and English is taught as a second language. The primary purpose of these programs is to facilitate the LEP student's transition to an all-English instructional environment while receiving academic subject instruction in the native language to the extent necessary.
Source: http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/expert/glossary.html

What is ESL?

English as a second language (ESL) is an educational approach in which English language learners are instructed in the use of the English language. Their instruction is based on a special curriculum that typically involves little or no use of the native language, focuses on language (as opposed to content) and is usually taught during specific school periods. For the rest of the school day, students may be placed in mainstream classrooms, an immersion program, or a bilingual education program. Every bilingual education program has an ESL component (U.S. General Accounting Office, 1994).
Source: http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/expert/glossary.html

Can I have a Type 29 currently and still apply to the program?

Yes, but you still have to have three and a half years left on your Type 29 in order to apply.

Do I need access to a computer and the internet to be a participant in this program?

Absolutely yes, we use the latest technology to disseminate information about our program to participants. We also offer an e-mentor site. NIU utilizes blackboard, Live Text and other web-based programming for class instruction.

Phone: 312-814-3519 | Fax: 312-814-8636 | amorenon@isbe.net
ISBE, English Language Learning, 100 W. Randolph, Suite 14-300, Chicago, IL 60601