Kentucky School Counselor Certification Renewal

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: December 9th, 2024

Certification Renewal Process for School Counselors

Maintaining a valid school counselor certification is crucial for professionals dedicated to supporting student success in Kentucky. Below is a comprehensive overview of the renewal process for both provisional and standard school counselor certifications. We will delve into the specific requirements, deadlines, and necessary steps to ensure a smooth renewal experience. By understanding the guidelines and staying organized, school counselors can confidently navigate this process and continue their impactful work within Kentucky’s educational system.

Provisional School Counselor Certification Renewal

  • Renewal Duration:
    • Five (5) years. Renewal deadline is September 1st of the last year of certification validity.
  • Renewal Requirements:
    • Completion of an online CA-2 application on the Kentucky Educator Credentialing System (KECS).
    • Submission of an OFFICIAL transcript showing at least nine (9) semester hours of additional graduate credit in the areas of counseling or school counseling.
    • Appropriate payment through the KECS system via the ePay online payment service for certification fees.
    • Renewal application fee of $85.
  • Additional Information:
    • If there is a lapse in the provisional certificate, it may be reissued later under current administrative regulations upon application.

Standard School Counselor Certification Renewal

  • Renewal Duration:
    • Five (5) years. Renewal deadline is September 1st of the last year of certification validity.
  • Renewal Requirements:
    • Completion of an online CA-2 application on the Kentucky Educator Credentialing System (KECS).
    • Completion of the Effective Instructional Leadership Act (EILA) hours as specified by the KY Department of Education in KRS 156.101.
    • Provide documentation of EILA training to the district superintendent, who recommends renewal of the CA-2.
    • Make the appropriate payment through the KECS system via the ePay online payment service for certification fees.
  • Additional Information:
    • If there is a lapse in the standard certificate, it may be reissued later under current administrative regulations.
    • Reissuance requires completing twelve (12) clock hours of counselor role-specific training each year since the certificate’s expiration, up to a maximum of seventy-five (75) clock hours. Alternatively, nine (9) semester hours of additional graduate credit appropriate to the position of a school counselor can be completed.

For further assistance, contact the Kentucky Certification and Preparation office at (502)-564-4606 or email a specialist at kdelicensure@education.ky.gov.