The Alternate Route to Certification for Teachers of English Language Learners (ARCTELL) is an innovative program developed for the Connecticut State Department of Education, approved by the Department of Higher Education, and administered by ACES to attract talented, successful Connecticut teachers to a new teaching career as TESOL or Bilingual teachers.
During the school year, participants attend classes and engage in field work related to teaching English Language Learners. They also apply strategies to job-embedded assignments.
Once a teacher successfully completes the program of instruction, he/she receives a Record of Completion and cross-endorsement as a TESOL teacher and, for those qualified, as a Bilingual teacher. This credential deems the teacher eligible for certification and employment as a TESOL and, if applicable, a Bilingual teacher in any Connecticut public school. The program does not carry university credits.
Applications are now being accepted for the 2012-2013 cohort to begin in October 2012. Application information is available below or by contacting John Gustafson at 203-407-4451 or jgustafson@aces.org.
To apply, submit the following to John Gustafson, ACES PDSI, 205 Skiff Street, Hamden, CT 06517:
- The completed Application form
- A copy of your Connecticut teaching certification
- Your current résumé
- College transcripts
- Three letters of reference, including one from an Administrator
- A non-refundable application fee of $75.00
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSIONS |
ARCTELL BROCHURE |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prior certification needed to enroll in the ARCTELL program?
Yes, the applicant must hold a current teaching certification in the state of CT.
What certification would I be eligible for as an ARCTELL candidate?
At the program’s completion, participants will be eligible for TESOL endorsement number 111. Some participants may also be eligible for a bilingual endorsement in their content area as well (see next question).
How does the Bilingual certification work?
ARCTELL participants who hold a CT teaching certification in Elementary, Middle or a secondary certificate in English, Math, Science or History/Social Studies can apply for a bilingual endorsement in the same area. Bilingual candidates who successfully complete the program will be eligible for both the Bilingual and TESOL endorsements.
To obtain an additional bilingual endorsement, participants must complete the additional requirements of the ARCTELL program, as well as American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) proficiency requirements in the language of the bilingual program.
For more information regarding ACTFL language proficiency requirements, visit http://languagetesting.com.
For more information regarding CT certifications, visit http://www.sde.ct.gov/sde.
What if I am certified K-8, but want to be able to teach in a TESOL program at the high school level? Would I be able to do that with this cross endorsement?
Yes. The TESOL cross-endorsement allows you to teach at any grade PK-12.
Can a teacher with an expired certificate participate?
No, as your certification must be current and valid in the state of CT.
Do I have to take the Praxis I or II?
Connecticut will require the Praxis II English to Speakers of Other Languages (#0361) for anyone applying for certification – initial or cross-endorsement – in TESOL (endorsement #111) on and after September 1, 2013.
What is the time commitment?
There are three phases of the program:
The content of Phase I includes Domains 1 and 2 of the TESOL standards (Language and Culture). Classes will be held online or on site from 4-8 pm on selected evenings and from 8-2 pm on selected Saturdays. In addition to 44 hours of classwork, approximately 20 hours of field experiences will take place during Phase I.
The content of Phase II includes Domains 3 and 4 of the TESOL standards (Planning, Instruction, and Assessment). In addition to 60 hours of classwork, approximately 50 hours of field experiences will take place during Phase II.
The content of Phase III includes Domains 4 and 5 of the TESOL standards (Assessment and Professionalism). Phase III includes 44 hours of classwork and 60 hours of field work, including a practicum in a summer school environment for English Language Learners.
How will participants’ success be measured?
The program includes a series of assignments that will be collected and organized as a portfolio illustrating your understanding and application of concepts learned. Feedback on assignments will be provided. Each assignment is aligned with a TESOL or Bilingual competency. In addition, a successful practicum experience is expected.
Where will classes be held?
In general, classes will be held at ACES, in its Staff Development building in Hamden located at 205 Skiff St. Some coursework may be completed online. At times, classes may be held in school districts who agree to host the program as an opportunity to share their ELL programs and best practices.
Where are the field work experiences held?
During the school year, participants can chose a location where their field work can be completed – in their school or district, or in a neighboring district. The summer practicum will take place in a district that offers summer programming for ELLs. Possible host districts are: Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, Windham, Stamford, and the CT Technical High Schools. With faculty approval, candidates may also select a district of their own choosing in which to complete the summer practicum.
Who are the faculty for the program?
The faculty includes exemplary TESOL and Bilingual teachers and administrators from CT school districts, as well as ACES Education Specialists in technology integration, multicultural education, and language acquisition.
how much does the program cost?
The program cost is $4,800.00. Payment can be made in full or in 2 installments during the program year.
Are there scholarships or grants available for the program?
At this time, no. However, many teacher association contracts offer reimbursement for coursework that enhances a teacher’s ability to perform in the classroom. In addition, Title I, II, and III funds may be allocated for this type of professional development as determined by school district administration.
Are there university credits available toward a degree?
At this time, there is no official agreement with universities about accumulation of credits.
Where can I find information about the TESOL standards?
TESOL information can be found here:;
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