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Alternative Pathways

Wisconsin provides several pathways to achieve licensure as a teacher or pupil services professional. A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is the minimum requirement for most teaching licenses in the state.

If you hold a Bachelor's degree and wish to teach in the Appleton Area School District (AASD), your major does not need to match your intended licensure area. Whether you majored in math and want to teach high school math, or you're interested in special education, both are possible through the alternative licensure process.

Pathways Process

Apply to an open teaching position on Applitrack.

  1. VIEW CURRENT OPENINGS

After being hired, work with AASD Human Resources to apply for your 1 Year License with Stipulations (Emergency License).

AASD will request this license from the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) on your behalf upon hiring. Applications for the current school year must be submitted to DPI by June 30. Applications for the upcoming school year are not accepted by DPI until after July 1.

Enroll in a DPI-approved Education Preparation Program (EPP). 

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction approves educator preparation programs leading to licensure at entities including Wisconsin colleges/universities, CESAs, school districts, and private companies.

Upon completion of your EPP, apply for the appropriate license through DPI.

AASD will assist you with this process. Some EPPs can be completed in as little as 1-2 years. Educators are allowed up to three 1 Year Licenses with Stipulations, enabling you to work for three school years while completing your program.

For more information, visit the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Pathways to Licensure page and click on the Alternative Route Program.

Additional Steps for Elementary Positions:

  • Pass the Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) or an approved FORT alternative (for special education only).

Special Education:

  • Note that the 3-year deadline for completing the process is not eligible for extension when pursuing cross-categorical K-6/K-8 certification.
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DPI Contact

For questions about licensing pathways, visit WI Pathways to Licensure.

For specific questions about licensing application processes:

  • Use our licensing online helpdesk.  We typically respond to questions in 24 to 48 hours.
  • Call us at (800) 266-1027.  Voicemails are typically responded to in 48 to 72 hours.
  • You may arrange for an appointment with our licensing team.  Individual service is by appointment only.  Appointments may be scheduled 24 hours to one week in advance and are based on availability.

AASD Contact

Isabella Ledbury

(920) 852-5300 ext. 60076

DPI & State Licensing (Administrators, Educators, and Paraprofessionals)