WSU: Regional Center for Emergency License Holders
Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire County

Campus globe in the spring with pink flowering trees.

Are you a Western Massachusetts educator teaching on emergency licensure and don't know what to do next?

Don't worry, we've got you covered! Westfield State University serves as a Regional Center providing essential support to emergency license holders within Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire County public school districts. Additionally, our partner MCLA will primarily be serving Berkshire County, ensuring comprehensive assistance for all emergency license holders in the region.

Our mission is to guide and assist educators in transitioning from emergency licenses to provisional or initial licenses, ensuring stability and excellence in our educational system.

Support Provided for Western Massachusetts Emergency License Holders

At Westfield State University, we understand the challenges faced by emergency license holders employed in Western Massachusetts public school districts. That's why we offer assistance tailored to your needs. From guidance in accessing the MTEL and personalized preparation sessions to navigating the licensure process, our support ensures you're equipped for success. Explore how we can help you on your journey towards licensure and professional growth.

  • MTEL support, including registration guidance and information on alternative arrangements and assessments.
  • MTEL preparation, providing resources and sessions.
  • Tailored support in navigating and managing the licensure process.
  • Regular check-ins and personalized communication to support each candidate.
  • Wraparound services, including childcare provision when necessary, to ensure emergency license holders receive assistance aligned with their individual circumstances.
  • Personalized support and guidance provided to address the unique needs of each candidate.

Explore Our Licensure Programs

For individuals teaching under emergency licensure in Massachusetts, WSU provides two pathways to initial licensure: our post-baccalaureate teacher licensure program and our initial Master of Education programs. It is advisable for candidates to consult directly with our education department for guidance on selecting the most suitable path, considering their undergraduate coursework and any prerequisites required for the initial licensure M.Ed.

We prioritize working closely with students to streamline the licensure process, offering personalized advising to tailor the experience based on their previous coursework.

  • The metal globe sculpture on the Westfield State University campus is lit by spotlights at dusk.

    Our non-degree-bearing post-baccalaureate teacher licensure programs enable students to fulfill any missing coursework and practicum requirements for initial licensure in Massachusetts. We offer the following post-baccalaureate programs: art, early childhood, elementary, moderate disabilities, music, and physical education, as well as middle and/or secondary English, biology, history, and mathematics.

  • Courtney Hall with blue skies behind it and a Westfield State University blue and white flag in front of it.

    Our Master of Education programs offer the opportunity to complete graduate coursework and practicum requirements for initial licensure in Massachusetts while earning a Master of Education degree. These programs cover early childhood, elementary, moderate disabilities, middle and/or secondary English, biology, history, and mathematics.

Take the next step and start your journey today!

Complete the intake survey for emergency licensure holders. 

As a working teacher, since completing the post-baccalaureate program at Westfield State, I have continually drawn on the resources I collected during that valuable educational experience. 

Jen Kostecki, 16'
 

Campus Globe against cloudy blue sky

Contact Us

Western Mass Regional Center
Megan Kennedy, Ph.D.
Scanlon Hall 313