SITE Frequently Asked Questions
1. Upon the completion of the SITE Educators Preparation Institute (EPI) program, what will be my eligibility for teacher certification?
Graduates of SITE are eligible for Florida certification for elementary education, grades K through 6.
2. What is an Educators Preparation Institute(EPI)?
An EPI is an alternative certification program authorized by the Florida Department of Education and available to individuals who have completed a bachelor's degree in an area other than education.
3. Is the M.Ed. applicable to other states?
Each state has its own certification requirements and/or certification exam(s). Contact the state education department where you plan to teach before entering this program.
4. Are completed credits from SITE transferable to other schools?
The transfer of credit hours to another school is totally dependent upon the other school's policy regarding credit transfer.
5. Is the SITE program the only U.F. option for non-education majors to prepare to teach elementary education?
No, there is also a 15 credit year-long internship in Duval County named the Lastinger Apprenticeship. Students who choose this option make a 3 year commitment to teach in high-needs schools in Duval County upon completion of the Apprenticeship.
6. What is PROTEACH about?
Proteach is a 5 year teacher education program. Students enter the College of Education as juniors and take course work as juniors and seniors and they receive a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education, but they are not eligible for certification until they complete their fifth year which culminates in an M.Ed.! Proteach is not available to those who already hold a bachelor's degree.
7. How many SITE students are accepted into the program each year?
The number of students accepted into the SITE program is dependent upon the number of mentors and schools that are available to host the SITE program. We currently use schools in Alachua County.
8. When is the cut off date for applying to the SITE program?
The application deadline for a Summer admission is February 1st. The SITE program is a 3 semester (Summer -Fall-Spring) program. Students are admitted for the summer term only.
9. Do you follow standard procedures for applying to the Graduate School?
Yes, please see the information provided on the School of Teaching & Learning website for M.Ed. admissions.
10. Is there any financial assistance available for the SITE students?
No stipends are available for students in the SITE program. We strongly advise you to explore all financial aid options listed on the School of Teaching & Learning financial aid page. In addition, some students have qualified for loans for financial assistance. http://www.ufsa.ufl.edu/sfa/ Due to the rigorous course schedule in the one year program as well as during the internship semesters, there is little time to be employed.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Shelley Warm
School of Teaching and Learning
University of Florida College of Education
P.O. Box 117048
Gainesville, FL 32611-7048
352-332-0119
561-251-2503 (cell)
rwarm@ufl.edu
