Instructional Leadership, Reduced Hour Option for Certification

Students in Instructional Leadership may participate in programs leading to a master’s degree (M.Ed.) with initial certification (Class A), a specialist degree (Ed.S.) and advanced certification (Class AA), or a reduced hour option for certification (Class A). 

A reduced-hour option is available in Instructional Leadership. Those individuals who already hold a master’s degree (and a valid Alabama Class A certification in a teaching field or instructional support area) and meet the admission criteria for the M.Ed. program  are eligible to pursue this option for Class A certification in instructional leadership.

Program Admission Requirements

• A completed application available at www.montevallo.edu/admissions-aid/applying/
• One official transcript from each institution of higher education attendee
• 3.0 Master’s degree graduating GPA from a regionally accredited college or university
• Qualifying test score on the MAT or the GRE
• Valid Class A certificate in teaching field or in another area of instructional support
• EXP form documenting three full years of acceptable education experience with at least one full year of full-time P-12 teaching experience
• Passing score on an admission portfolio. The portfolio will contain the following:
  • Three (3) letters of recommendation, to include the applicant’s principal or supervisor. Each local superintendent will establish requirements for recommendations from the principal and/or supervisor.
  • Completed copy (all forms) of the most-recent performance appraisal, to include the professional development component, if available.
  • Evidence of ability to improve student achievement
  • Evidence of leadership and management potential, including evidence of most-recent accomplishments in the area of instructional leadership.
  • Summary of the candidate’s reasons for pursuing instructional leadership certification.
  • Summary of what the candidate expects from the preparation program.
• Passing score on an interview conducted by a program admission committee that includes both P-12 instructional leaders and higher-education faculty.
• Evidence of a clear criminal background check.

Retention/Completion Requirements

• Maintain a minimum 3.25 program GPA on all coursework
• 156 minimum score on the Praxis II Educational Leadership: Administration and Supervision (5421)
• ED 584 or ALSDE approved Class A Diversity Course, if not previously completed
• SPED 407/507 or equivalent, if not previously completed