• What are the qualifications for admission?


    To be considered for admission, applicants must:

    • Hold a valid CT Provisional or Professional Educator teaching certificate
    • Be employed by a CT PreK-12 school or school district during the program of study
  • Does my current certification qualify me for cross-endorsement?


    Not all CT certification endorsements are eligible for cross-endorsement. Click here to view a list of CT State Department of Education endorsement codes. Only those endorsements listed under Teaching Endorsements are eligible. If you do not hold one of these endorsements, then you cannot apply for this program.

  • Who are the instructors?


    ARCLMS instructors are CT certified Library Media Specialists. They are recognized as leaders in their field, are current to the targeted PreK-12 population, and are actively involved in the professional community. In addition, the program is advised by an Advisory Board comprised of current school library media specialists, and ACES education specialists.

  • What is the time commitment?


  • When is the application deadline?


    Applications will be accepted through July 31, 2024. Cohorts are open until filled, so don't wait to apply!

  • How do I apply?


    Click here for admission information and application instructions.

  • How many applicants are accepted?


    A typical cohort is approximately 20-25 participants. Cohorts are open until filled. 

  • What is the schedule?


  • How much is tuition?


    Tuition for the 2024-25 ARCLMS program year is $5,000.00.  Participants may pay tuition in four (4) installments of $1,250.00 on the following schedule: 

    1. August 31, 2024 
    2. October 31, 2024 
    3. January 31, 2025 
    4. March 31, 2025 
  • Are there additional program costs?


    In addition to tuition, the following are additional costs that will be incurred by participants (subject to change):

    • Application fee = $75.00
    • CT cross-endorsement fee = $100.00
  • Is financial aid available?


    No. ACES does not participate in Federal student aid programs.

  • Is there a Praxis requirement?


    Yes.  ACES uses Praxis #5312, School Librarian, to provide program data on participant knowledge. Since it is not a requirement for CT certification, there is no minimum passing score. Praxis fees are covered by ACES.

  • Can I earn university credits towards a degree?


    No. This program is solely for CT teacher certification. It is non-credit-bearing and carries no credit equivalence.

  • Can I take only certain classes or join the program mid-year?


    No. Participants must complete the entire program of study. Previously earned credits have no impact on participation or completion.

  • Does this program satisfy requirements for a Durational Shortage Area Permit (DSAP)?


    Yes. This program qualifies as an approved educator preparation program for the DSAP application. The application must be completed by the school district where the candidate is to be employed. For more information on obtaining a DSAP, please consult the CT State Department of Education website.

  • How is the program evaluated?


    The ARCLMS program is evaluated by the CT State Board of Education, which oversees educator preparation program approval. In addition, ARCLMS is advised by a program Advisory Board comprised of former and current school library services administrators from CT school districts, as well as current school library media specialists.  The Advisory Board meets regularly to guide program content, curriculum and activities, and ensures cohesion to state and local initiatives, as well as program alignment to the AASL Standards.