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Certification Reciprocity Process for School Counselors in West Virginia
West Virginia offers two main pathways for out-of-state school counselors seeking certification (see Certification Information Overview).
1. Professional Student Support Certificate (Out-of-State)
This certification is for individuals who already hold a professional School Counseling license or certificate from another state.
Requirements:
- Valid Out-of-State License: You must have a valid professional school counseling license or certificate from another state.
- Form 20R: Complete Form 20R for the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE).
- Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- WVBE Policy 5202 Compliance: Ensure compliance with all WV Board of Education (WVBE) policy 5202 requirements, including WV-required licensure assessments if not previously completed.
- Background Check: Complete a background check through the West Virginia State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
- Application: Apply through the West Virginia Certification Portal, selecting Option 2 if applicable.
Application Process:
- Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including your valid out-of-state license, official transcripts, and completed Form 20R.
- Background Check: Schedule and complete a background check through the West Virginia State Police and FBI.
- Complete Form 20R: Fill out and submit Form 20R along with your application.
- Submit Application: Apply through the West Virginia Certification Portal, ensuring all required documents are uploaded.
- Pay Fees: Pay the applicable certification fees (usually around $35-50).
2. Student Support Certificate (Out-of-State)
This certification is for individuals who have completed an out-of-state school counseling program but may not yet hold a professional license or certificate.
Requirements:
- Completed Out-of-State Program: Must have completed a school counseling program at an accredited institution that is approved by the public school licensing agency of that state to lead to licensure.
- Form 20A: Complete Form 20A for the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE).
- Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- WVBE Policy 5202 Compliance: Ensure compliance with all WVBE policy 5202 requirements, including WV-required licensure assessments.
- Institution Recommendation: Obtain a recommendation from the institution where you completed your program.
- Background Check: Complete a background check through the West Virginia State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
- Application: Apply through the West Virginia Certification Portal.
Application Process:
- Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including your completed Form 20A, official transcripts, and institution recommendation.
- Background Check: Schedule and complete a background check through the West Virginia State Police and FBI.
- Complete Form 20A: Fill out and submit Form 20A along with your application.
- Submit Application: Apply through the West Virginia Certification Portal, ensuring all required documents are uploaded.
- Pay Fees: Pay the applicable certification fees (usually around $35-50).
Additional Notes
- Reciprocity Agreement: West Virginia does provide the opportunity to acquire certification through a reciprocity agreement, but you must still complete the application process and meet all requirements.
- Educational Credentials Evaluation: All educational credentials must be included and evaluated as part of the application process.
- Background Check: A complete background check is mandatory for all applicants, regardless of prior experience.
These pathways ensure that out-of-state school counselors can transition into West Virginia’s educational system while maintaining high standards and compliance with state regulations.