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    PA-approved educator preparation program providers must begin offering programs aligned to this new certificate grade span by July 1, 2028.

    Candidates will be able to apply for the new PK-6 grade span once PA-approved programs are available.

    Testing has not yet been determined.

    Grades 5-6 can be added based on testing alone if applying on or before July 1, 2028.

    In accordance with Section 1202.2(e) of the School Code, an educator holding a Grades PK-4 certificate may teach Grades 5-6 without adding Grades 5-6 through testing.  This allowance does not change the certificate held to PK-6.  It just allows the holder to teach grades 5-6 with the Grades PK-4 certificate.  A Grades PK-4 certificate holder who wants to add Grades 5-6 by testing and application must do so prior to July 1, 2028.  After that time, the add-on by test will no longer be available.

    All previously issued certificates will remain valid for their full term. No certificates will be invalidated as a result of this change. Educators may continue teaching within the grade-level limitations of their existing certificates.

    PA-approved educator preparation program providers determine whether students can reasonably complete program requirements within the transition period. Based on this assessment, providers will determine whether a student may continue in the current program offering or should enroll in the Grades PK-6 program prior to July 1, 2028.

    Grades PK-4 and Grades 4-8 emergency permits will remain available until Grades PK-6 is available.  Once Grades PK-6 is available, only reissuance of Type 01 Grades PK-4 and/or Grades 4-8 emergency permits for candidates continuously enrolled in a Grades PK-4 and/or Grades 4-8 program and currently working under an existing Type 01 Grades PK-4 and/or Grades 4-8 emergency permit will be considered.  Grades PK-6 or Grades 7-12 must be requested for all other emergency permit candidates.