Virginia Law

A. The dual language (target language) preK-6 add-on endorsement is to teach dual language in a World Language other than English. The target language will be noted on the endorsement.

B. The program in dual language (target language) preK-6 add-on endorsement shall ensure that the candidate holds a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and an active teaching license with an endorsement in a target language issued by the State Board of Education and has demonstrated the following competencies and completed a 45-clock-hour practicum in dual language (target language) from a regionally accredited college or university. One year of successful, full-time teaching experience in a public school or accredited nonpublic school in dual language (target language) may be accepted in lieu of the practicum.

1. Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding of the principles of learning; dual language acquisition; theories of second language acquisition; the application of skills in discipline-specific methodology; varied and effective methods of communication with and among students; selection and use of materials, including media and contemporary technologies; and selection, development, and use of appropriate curricula, methodologies, and materials that support and enhance student learning and reflect the research on unique, age-appropriate, and culturally relevant curriculum and pedagogy.

2. Understanding of the principles of online learning and online instructional strategies and the application of skills to deliver online instruction shall be included.

3. Instructional practices that are sensitive to culturally and linguistically diverse learners, including English learners, gifted and talented students, and students with disabilities, and appropriate for the preK-3 or preK-6 endorsement shall be included.

4. Teaching methods shall be tailored to promote student engagement and student academic progress and effective preparation for the Virginia Standards of Learning assessments.

5. Study in (i) methods of improving communication between schools and families; (ii) communicating with families regarding social and instructional needs of children; (iii) ways of increasing family engagement in student learning at home and in school; (iv) the Virginia Standards of Learning; (v) English Language Development Standards (WIDA); and (vi) Virginia Foundation Blocks for Early Learning: Comprehensive Standards for Four-Year-Olds prepared by the Virginia Department of Education's Office of Early Childhood shall be included.

6. Early childhood educators shall understand the role of families in child development and in relation to teaching educational skills.

7. Early childhood educators shall understand the role of the informal and play-mediated settings for promoting students' skills and development and shall demonstrate knowledge and skill in interacting in such situations to promote specific learning outcomes as reflected in Virginia's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning: Comprehensive Standards for Four-Year-Olds.

8. Demonstrated proficiency in the use of educational technology for instruction shall be required.

C. The candidate must pass the rigorous elementary education assessment prescribed by the State Board of Education or completed the following coursework:

1. Mathematics - nine semester hours in mathematics that must include methods of teaching elementary mathematics;

2. Laboratory sciences (in two science disciplines) - nine semester hours that must include methods of teaching elementary science;

3. History and Social Sciences: United States history - three semester hours; geography, economics, or United States or comparative government - three semester hours; and methods of teaching elementary history and social sciences - three semester hours.