BTSA?!—What is it? Who has to do it? Why?
This article was co-written by Michelle Wells and Aleeta Powers
What is BTSA?
BTSA (Beginning Teacher Support and Assistance) began as a voluntary program for teachers who wanted to improve their practice with the guidance of an experienced teacher.
It is now a state credential program for teachers with a preliminary credential who need to earn their California Clear Teaching Credential. The preliminary credential will indicate that an induction program is required to obtain the clear credential. BTSA is the state authorized induction program. (If you are unsure of what your requirements are look at your credential. If you have misplaced the original you may look it up at www.ctc.ca.gov.)
As of August 30, 2004 most teachers who have a preliminary credential MUST complete BTSA to earn their clear credential. Universities are no longer authorized to issue these credentials for most teachers. BTSA is not an LAUSD professional development program. It is a state mandated credential program (SB2042, AB2210).
The California State Credential System
California has a multi-tiered credential system. Teachers must earn a preliminary credential before beginning the clear credential program.
Although the preliminary credential is valid for a maximum of five years the expectation is that teachers will complete induction and earn their clear credential during the first two years. The additional time built into the system is designed to serve as a buffer for those who are unable to obtain a job right away, need to go on leave from the profession or have a major life event such as a long term medical condition that prohibits completing the work on schedule.
There are several types of credentials such as multiple subject, single subject or education specialist.
Who should be in BTSA?
Teachers who have a general education preliminary credential should register for the BTSA orientation to get more information on their requirements. Education Specialist credentials must be cleared through a university. Dual credential options are available.
What if I don’t do BTSA?
The state of California requires teachers to complete a clear credential program in order to continue teaching. Most teachers are unable to complete their requirements at a university. If you do not complete your requirements your credential will expire and you will be unable to teach in the state of California.
What is involved in completing the BTSA program?
BTSA is a two year program. If you are eligible for the program you should register for the earliest possible orientation session. This will allow you maximum flexibility in scheduling your time to meet the requirements.
Each year participants will attend a half day orientation, three 2 hour seminars and a portfolio review/colloquium. In year one there is an additional half day session.
The foundation of the program is the formative assessment system. This is completed at the school site with the guidance of an experienced teacher (Support Provider) and requires approximately 2 hours per week. The work is directly linked to the teacher’s current classroom and context for teaching and is designed to enhance instruction to meet student needs. Look for more information on the formative assessment system and support provider match-up process in future editions of the United Teacher.
An Early Completion Option is available to teachers who either completed their preliminary credential in an intern program or have taught in a public school for two or more years and meet additional criteria. This year participants who wish to participate in the early completion option must attend an orientation and submit an application no later than October 30, 2009. Participants entering after that date will be ineligible for early completion.
What does it cost?
BTSA is offered at no charge to the participant for those entering during their first year of teaching and completing the program as scheduled. A fee may be charged for those who delay entry or who do not complete the program on time. For this year only we may be allowed greater latitude in waiving fees for those who enter after their first year of teaching however this flexibility will not apply to those requiring extensions.
How do I register for BTSA?
Registration is available through the LAUSD BTSA website: http://acts.lausd.net/BTSA.
Register for the year one orientation. Once you have confirmed your eligibility for the program you will also need to register with the state. The link for state registration is also available on the LAUSD BTSA website.
Who do I contact for more information?
If you have additional questions after you have attended the orientation you may look under the ‘STAFF’ link on the LAUSD BTSA website for contact information.
The BTSA Induction Team looks forward to welcoming BTSA eligible teachers into our program.