When a request requires a valid certificate and the current certificate is expired or nearing expiration, the certificate must be made valid before the add-on or other request can be completed. We would strongly encourage you to wait until the request to make the certificate valid has been successfully processed before submitting any additional requests; however, if average processing times exceed 15 business days, you may submit the second request 2 - 3 weeks after the request to make the certificate valid is submitted.
Be advised, if the request to make the certificate valid is denied for any reason, even an administrative issue or typo, the request which requires a valid certificate must then be denied if the certificate is still expired when the add-on request is processed. The Certification Office cannot hold an add-on request received pending a valid certificate. A new application and a new fee would then be required to re-apply for the add-on once the request to make the certificate valid has been corrected and successfully processed.
Please see additional articles about your specific certificate type and current Louisiana teaching status for information on requesting a valid certificate. Most requests for renewal, a higher level certificate, or a change in status require verification and signature from the current or former Louisiana school system. Use the Submit a Request options above or below this article if you wish to request guidance specific to your situation.