Hooraaah!

I've made it into Teach First Coast, FCCJ's Educator Preparation Institute! I was getting pretty worried when I couldn't contact the office, but Dr. Kathleen Foley, the director, put my mind at ease. The interview went wonderfully-- she told me I have a very professional demeanor! *squees like a school girl*

Now, what exactly are the benefits of an EPI? Well, I'll tell you what I know.

• First year teachers who choose Alternative Certification must complete a Teacher Induction Program before they can get their professional certificate, gaining FEAPs or Florida Educator Accomplished Practices. This program requires the new teacher to give up their Saturdays for an entire school year with minimal absences. An EPI bypasses the TIP completely. This EPI is very intense and crams all the information into a month and a half of constant classes.
  
• But, it set me back about 1500 smackeroos which is something you must consider before entering an EPI.
• Additionally, it looks great on a resume if you don't have a job yet. School districts love to see EPIs on an applicant's resume. You are required to get volunteer hours and the reading class qualifies you for the Competency 2 of your Florida Reading Endorsement!