The Vermont Department of Education (DOE) establishes the professional standards for educators and administrators who are licensed to work in public schools in Vermont.
Each educator must also demonstrate competence in the particular knowledge and performance standards required for his or her specific field of practice (endorsement area). Endorsement areas define the ages and topics the educator may teach. Educators may have more than one. Examples of endorsements areas are:
- early childhood (birth to grade three)
- early childhood limited endorsement (such as age 3 to grade 3)
- early childhood special education
- elementary (K-6)
- middle grades (5-9) science
The five standards for Vermont educators are:
- Learning – expertise in the endorsement area
- Professional Knowledge – methodology and pedagogy
- Colleagueship- collaboration with colleagues, programs, communities
- Advocacy – improving educational health of Vermont learners
- Accountability – ethical, professional standards and growth
In addition, DOE requires educators to follow the 16 Principles of effective educator practice. These Principles (with indicators) are embedded within each of the Five Standards. The primary purpose for the Five Standards and 16 Principles is to guide educators as they meet the requirements of professional licensure and relicensure. The Standards and Principles
- provide the framework for professional preparation and continuing professional development
- are grounded in best practice
- are responsive to state and local initiatives,
- require accountability through self-assessment
The Vermont Northern Lights Career Development Center works with many partners to unify and enhance the professional development system for early childhood and afterschool professionals in Vermont. It is funded by a grant from the Child Development Division of the Vermont Agency of Human Services. The Community College of Vermont (CCV) and the Vermont Child Care Industry and Careers Council (VCCICC) are co-grantees.
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