Section 1.782  Requirements for Teachers of English as a Second Language in Prekindergarten, Kindergarten and any of Grades 1-12

a)         Bilingual teachers presently teaching English as a Second Language and employed in an approved bilingual education program prior to September 1, 1985 are not subject to the requirements set forth below, provided they continue to hold a certificate issued prior to that date and valid for their current teaching role. 

b)         On September 1, 1985 and thereafter, teachers of English as a Second Language in State-approved bilingual education programs must:

1)         Possess a special K-12 certificate endorsed for teaching English as a Second Language, issued by the State Board of Education in accordance with 23 Ill. Adm. Code 25 (Certification); or

2)         Possess a valid Illinois teaching certificate and either an endorsement or a statement of approval issued by the State Board of Education when evidence is presented of having completed 18 semester hours distributed among the following areas and including 100 clock hours of clinical experience or 3 months experience teaching English as a Second Language:

A)        Linguistics (including English and non-English phonology and syntax);

B)        Theoretical foundations of teaching English as a Second Language;

C)        Assessment of the bilingual student;

D)        Methods and materials for teaching English as a Second Language; and

E)         Cross-cultural studies for teaching LEP students; or

3)         Hold a Visiting International Teaching Certificate that is valid for the grade levels of the students to be served and meets the requirements set forth at 23 Ill. Adm. Code 25.92(i).

(Source:  Amended at 35 Ill. Reg. 1056, effective January 3, 2011)