Standard School Service Provider (SSP) Credential
The Certification for Standard School Service Providers (SSP) stands as a robust credential, empowering individuals to deliver specialized services within the realm of student service provision, with a specific focus on the role of School Counselors. This comprehensive certification, designed to meet the unique demands of the education sector, not only signifies a professional’s proficiency in the field but also opens avenues for continuous professional growth.
Notably, this certification is not a mere accolade; it is a renewable validation of expertise, ensuring that certified individuals are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Valid for a substantial period of four years, it serves as a testament to the commitment to excellence in supporting students and fostering a positive educational environment. By attaining and maintaining this certification, individuals actively contribute to elevating the standards of student services, thereby positively impacting the academic journey of students under their guidance.
Eeducation Requirements
Applicants will need to hold a completed master’s degree from an approved program in school counseling education, or possess a completed master’s degree in counseling and have completed graduate-level school counseling coursework in specified areas.
Coursework Requirements
Applicants must have completed coursework in various areas, including:
- Philosophy and principles underlying guidance and pupil personnel services.
- Theory and practice of counseling, with a focus on exceptional and culturally diverse students.
- Educational and psychological measurement.
- Career development theory, including planning and decision-making techniques.
- Understanding the individual (nature and range of human characteristics).
- Group counseling and group guidance processes.
- Research and evaluation.
- Elementary, middle, and secondary school counseling.
Experience and Testing Requirements
Applicants should have completed at least 300 hours of supervised school-based field, practicum, or internship experience as part of their degree program.
This experience can also be met through specific alternatives, such as:
- Completion of a CACREP-approved school counseling program or possession of a valid National Certified Counselors (NCC) credential.
- Two or more years of full-time teaching experience or one year of full-time experience as a school counselor.
- Successful completion of the District-of-Columbia-required school counselor content exam or a comparable exam in another state with an active school counselor license.
Applying for the Credential
Application Documents
All SSP credential applications require the following documents:
- An Identity History Summary Check (IHSC) issued by the FBI or an approved FBI channeler agency. Visit this website for further information on how to receive an FBI Identity History Summary Check, including a list of FBI-approved fingerprint processing agencies.
- Official transcripts verifying a completed bachelor’s degree.
- Official transcripts verifying a completed master’s degree or higher in the service area and specific coursework requirements.
- For degrees from institutions outside the US, a foreign credential evaluation report is required.
Additional Documents for School Counselor Applicants
- An experience verification form confirming one year of full-time employment as a school counselor, two years of full-time teaching experience, or completion of 300 hours of supervised school-based field experience.
- Passing test scores for the District-of-Columbia-required school counselor content exam or a comparable exam passed in another state.
- A copy of an active full school counselor credential held in another state if submitting test scores passed for another state.
Application Process
Follow the process below to complete the application process:
- Apply through the online system using the Educator Credentialing Information System (ECIS V2.0).
- Submit the required documents, including the IHSC, official transcripts, and program completion verification form.
- School Counselors must provide additional documents such as experience verification, test scores, and a copy of an active school counselor credential from another state if applicable.
- Seek technical support through the ECIS Support Ticket if needed.
- Teachers may apply for a Praxis Fee Voucher for select subject area exams, subject to meeting specific criteria.
Applicants must adhere to all eligibility requirements, provide accurate documentation, and follow the outlined procedures to ensure a successful application for the Standard SSP Certification.
Credential Renewal Process
The SSP certification is renewable, and holders must undergo the renewal process every four years to maintain its validity. The renewal requirements may include continued professional development, updated clearances, and adherence to any new regulations set by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). School counselors who need to renew their credentials have two options:
- Renewal by performance evaluation ratings – This option entails submitting all pages of multi-year performance evaluation reports as well as an FBI personal criminal background record report issued within the last 12 months.
- Renewal by completion of professional development activities – This option requires proof of involvement in at least 120 clock hours of professional development training activities, such as educator workshops and college courses, as well as an FBI personal criminal background record report issued within the past 12 months.
Technical Support
Individuals requiring technical support for the online application system (Educator Credentialing Information System – ECIS V2.0) must submit an ECIS Support Ticket. A support representative will provide step-by-step instructions or schedule virtual support sessions as needed. Detailed user instructions for signing in to ECIS V2.0 are available on this link.