Even though Pennsylvania is facing a teacher shortage, it is still possible for educators to lose their teaching certificates. While the Pennsylvania Department of Education revokes some licenses for understandable reasons, they may invalidate others based on technicalities or for questionable causes.
Educators must protect their careers by maintaining awareness of the various ways they can face professional licensure problems and being proactive to prevent them.
Failure to meet renewal requirements
If you fail to meet state renewal requirements, such as completing continuing education credits or submitting required documentation, officials may suspend or revoke your license. In particular, level one educators must be sure to upgrade to level two if they want to continue teaching after their sixth year of service.
Criminal convictions
Certain criminal convictions, especially those involving crimes against children, can lead to the revocation of your teaching license. Other minor offenses do not automatically prevent teachers from working but do make them vulnerable to disciplinary action. If your principal suspects illegal activity after hiring you, you may have to submit to a background check.
Testing irregularities
Teachers who proctor standardized tests come under scrutiny when there are testing irregularities. It is every educator’s responsibility to enforce the following testing protocols:
- Move desks the designated distance apart
- Make sure students do not have electronic devices in their pockets
- Do not read questions aloud or give any help during the test
Teachers must give their full attention to proctoring the test and not engage in other activities, such as grading papers.
Violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act
Your teaching license is at risk if you fail to follow the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. A common way that teachers get into legal trouble is by not abiding by all the accommodations in a student’s individualized education plan.
Neglect of duties
Neglecting your duties as an educator can lead to disciplinary action against your teaching license. Unfortunately, this accusation is vague, allowing parents to interpret it based on their own opinions. Be sure to follow your school’s code of conduct, especially when it comes to student discipline and remediation for failing grades.
Losing your teaching license in Pennsylvania can have serious consequences for your career. If you receive notice of potential disciplinary action against your teaching license, review the allegations and gather documentation to defend yourself.