PROCESS

Directions: You will be considered for admission to the Tri-State University teacher education program when the following materials have been submitted. You will be notified when all conditions have been met and the Teacher Education Committee has approved your application.

1. APPLICATION FORM

You are to complete and submit this form. It does not have to be typed. Submit it when you wish to have a file opened for you in the Franks School of Education office.  It is the first form you are to submit.  You should submit it as soon as you have made the decision to pursue teaching as a career.  You may submit it before submitting any others.

2. EVIDENCE OF PASSING TEST SCORE(S)

You must pass one of the test options listed below if you wish to take Education courses other than EDU 111 and EDU 211. Take the option you feel is most appropriate for you. Make sure you code TSU (R1811) to receive your scores.

Praxis I: Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) 

This version of Praxis I is a paper/pencil test. You take it at a location you select. It is offered six times each year. You must register for the test using the form in the registration booklet or online. You must pass all three sections of the PPST—reading, writing, and mathematics. Passing scores are posted in the Franks School of Education office area and at other locations on campus.  Registration bulletins are available in the Franks School of Education office (202 Library).

Praxis I:  Computerized Pre-Professional Skills Test (PPST) 

This version of Praxis I is offered on computer at some Sylvan Learning Centers.  Locations and phone numbers are listed in the registration booklet for the computerized PPST. It is also offered in Fort Wayne at IPFW (260.481.4153). You may schedule a time and date that are convenient for you to take the three tests.  You must pass all three sections of the PPST – reading, writing, and mathematics.  Passing scores are posted in the Franks School of Education office area and at other locations on campus. Registration information is available in the Franks School of Education office (202 Library). Educational Testing Service encourages online registration for Praxis I. See the Web site at teachingandlearning.org 

3. RECOMMENDATION FORMS

YOU ARE NOT TO SUBMIT ANY OF THE RECOMMENDATION FORMS. Three of these forms are to be submitted on your behalf.  At least one recommendation must be from a college or university professor who has had you in class. All may be, but one must be. Other forms might be from former teachers, coaches, employers, residence hall directors, people who know you well.  Forms may not be submitted by RAs or relatives. You are to distribute the forms and request that each person return the form directly to the Franks School of Education office. You should provide a stamped, addressed envelope as a courtesy if a form is coming from someone off campus. IF YOU SUBMIT THE FORM DIRECTLY, IT WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

4. TRANSCRIPT REQUEST FORM

Transcripts are available through the Franks School of Education office. You may request that one be printed for you.  Complete the request from and submit it to the SOE administrative assistant. Your transcript must show that you have completed at least 14 TSU credit hours (TSU and/or transfer) and that you have earned at least an overall 2.5 GPA.

5. LIMITED CRIMINAL HISTORY INFORMATION FORM

You are to send this form with a $7.00 money order (no personal check) to the address below.  After approximately two weeks you will receive a paper indicating your criminal history. Submit it to the Franks School of Education office when you receive it. Most states will not issue a teaching license to someone convicted of a felony.  Most school districts will not permit you to student teach if you have been convicted of a felony. A limited criminal history check is valid for one year.

Indiana State Police
Central Repository
Indiana Government Center North
100 North Senate Avenue , Room N302
Indianapolis , IN 46204-2259

Limited Criminal History Information may also be requested online and you will receive an immediate print out. See links for more information or contact the Franks School of Education Administrative Assistant.