To submit an application to be heard by the Teacher Certification Appeals Council (TCAC) or a question about a submitted appeal, visit the Teacher Certification Appeals page.
All other questions about the general appeals process or certification denial should be submitted through the Teacher Certification Help Center using Submit a Request above or below this article.
The Department of Education administers an appeal process available to applicants who do not fulfill policy requirements as identified in Bulletin 746, Louisiana Standards for State Certification of School Personnel, but who believe that other experiences, skills, individual situation and/or knowledge warrant special consideration. This process provides the applicant an opportunity to have their records reviewed by TCAC. Where the Certification Office is bound to follow Bulletin 746 as approved by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), TCAC has the authority to act outside of policy in some instances.
To submit an appeal, an applicant must first apply for certification and receive an official denial letter on LDOE letterhead. Once denied, an appeal may be submitted within 120 days of the formal denial letter.
TCAC reviews all accepted appeal applications and submits a written report of its findings to BESE. The decision of the council is a final decision.
Appeals will not be considered for individuals who:
- lack NTE/Praxis requirements for initial certification; or
- lack a grade point average of 2.50 for initial certification; or
- lack reading requirements per R.S. 17:7.1.A.(4)(a); or
- lack 50 percent or more of courses required for certification; or
- lack the degree required for certification; or
- lack a degree from an institution accredited in accordance with 34 CFR 602; or
- have not met the standards of effectiveness for three years pursuant to Bulletin 130 and R.S. 17:3902.