Continuing Education and Certification Information for Staff

HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY (GED) AND ENGLISH CLASSES

Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas

TOEFL is the Test of English as a Foreign Language before applying to college in the United States.

ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION FOR TEACHING
(for those with a college degree)

TEA Info. on Obtaining an Alternative Teaching Certification in Texas

ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION FOR ASPIRING PRINCIPALS/ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS
Region 13 Principal Certification Network

Higher Education

Round Rock ISD is fortunate to have higher education partners who offer tuition discounts to District employees interested in continuing their education.

Continuing education partnerships welcome. Please reach out to HR Services if you’re a college, university, or trade school interested in offering tuition discounts to Round Rock ISD employees.    

Katie Leining at Walsh Middle School, Shannon Sieber at Pearson Ranch Middle School, Jesse Sosa at Live Oak Elementary School, and Alayna Stoll at Purple Sage Elementary School.

Abilene Christian University

Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

A class, school, or district is only as good as its leaders. Elevating experienced educators for school leadership roles across the state is at the heart of ACU’s online Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership program. Leading teachers and administrators toward their greater purpose within their careers, this degree is ideal for those looking to continue their education with the hopes of creating lasting change within their schools and districts.

American College of Education (ACE)

American College of Education (ACE) offers a discount to all Round Rock ISD employees. ACE offers 100% online degree programs, including bachelor’s, micro-credential, certificate, master’s, specialist, doctorate, and individual courses. Most master’s programs are under $10K and doctorate are under $24k. For more information, reach out to Kerry Stern.

Concordia University Texas  

Concordia University graduate program tuition discounts for Round Rock ISD employees.

We have an ISD Community Partnership with RRISD that provides tuition discounts for your employees to be applied to the following graduate programs:

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) – 100% online/asynchronous
    • Educational Leadership/Principal Certification [100% Passing Rate 268 & 368 exams]
    • Coaching & Sports Administration
    • Instructional Leadership (next start Spring ’24)
    • Educational Technology (being redesigned next start Fall ’24)
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) – on-campus & online

Grand Canyon University

Contact your local counselor for more information or schedule an APPOINTMENT

    • Advance your Education at GCU November Additional Scholarship Cohort
    • Over 200 GCU Graduate and Undergraduate Online Programs-Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral
    • Master of Education Online Programs
    • Master of Arts in Education Online Programs
    • Doctoral Online Programs
    • Honored to Serve the Military & Veteran Community with Military Training Transfer-Friendly Online Programs
    • Destination GCU-Complimentary invitation to visit our GCU Campus in Phoenix, AZ
    • Complimentary Online Test Prep Workshop for TX-BTLP
    • Complimentary Online Test Prep Workshop for NES & Praxis
    • Complimentary Foreign Credential Evaluations for Potential Student
  • To talk with someone for more information- Grand Canyon Referral Page
  • NOTE: Complete on-line program offered
  • COMPLIMENTARY On-line Test Prep for TX-BTLP

Lamar University (Member of Tx State University System)

  • Graduate Online Programs and Certifications
  • Undergraduate Programs
  • For more information, complete the interest form
  • Ready to Get Started?  Apply now
  • CHOOSE FROM THESE ONLINE PROGRAMS: • M.Ed. in Administration • M.Ed. in Applied Digital Learning • M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling • M.Ed. in Counseling & Development – Professional School Counseling • M.Ed. in Counseling & Development – Marriage, Couple & Family Counseling • M.Ed. in Educational Technology Leadership • M.Ed. in Special Education* • M.Ed. in Special Education with Educational Diagnostician Certification* • M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership • M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership with a Specialization in ESL • M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership with a Specialization in Gifted & Talented

    Principal Certification*Superintendent Certification*Diagnostician Certification*Mental Health Counseling*

  • For additional programs and/or more information, contact your local representative:  Rosanne Dominguez, Executive Director, Education Division, Lamar University, 210-563-9794.

Texas A&M University- Central Texas

RAISE Principal Residency for K-8 Instructional Coaches/Teacher Specialists 

Are you currently a campus-based teacher specialist (instructional coach, instructional specialist, teacher leader, multi-classroom leader, department head, or similar role) on a K-8 campus in Texas?

Are you interested in pursuing your master’s degree and earning your principal certification?

Principal residency interest form

More about the RAISE Principal Residency:

  • Instructional coaches apply for M.Ed. in Educational Administration at TAMU (synchronous online program)
  • Receive tuition/fee assistance up to $15,000 ($3,000/semester) – approximately up to ½ cost of the program
  • Participate in an evidence-based residency model
  • Prepare for principal certification (exam fee reimbursement)
  • Remain in full-time education instructional coach role
  • Participate in an embedded research study

Our final cohort starts next Fall – August 2025. Early decision applications are due December 1, 2024.  

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) Online

100% Online | NO GRE | 6 Start Dates a Year | Accelerated 7-Week Courses | Finish in 8-16
months | Ask about our TEACH Grant eligible programs.

  • MS in Educational Administration
  • MS in School Counseling
  • MS in Bilingual Education – 4 Specializations (Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction, Special Education, Reading)
  • MS in Curriculum & Instruction – 6 Specializations (Bilingual, Master Teacher, Technology,
    Leadership, Special Education, Reading)
  • MS in Special Education – 5 Specializations (Diagnostician, Leadership, Curriculum & Instruction,
    Reading, Bilingual)
  • Educational Diagnostics Professional Certificate
  • Principal Professional Certificate
  • Superintendent Professional Certificate

TAMIU Flyer
Request More Information
Join a TAMIU Online Webinar
Apply to TAMIU NOW
Refer a Friend/Family/Colleague

CONTACT:
Toni Barrett-Druilhet / Sr. Executive Director
Direct: 713.818.9087 (call or text)
Email: T.Druilhet@online.tamiu.edu
Visit TAMIU Online

Texas A&M University-Texarkana

As educators, we recognize the importance of a growth mindset and the significance of life-long learning, and we have definitely learned the value of technology over the last couple of years. At Texas A&M University-Texarkana, we offer several excellent educational opportunities aimed at the professional growth of teachers and administrators. In this email, we would like to highlight the Master of Science in Instructional Technology. We understand the need to moake learning available and affordable for working professionals and feel this degree will benefit you greatly. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to serving your educational needs.

Why Choose Our Program?

Graduate Scholarships: We have several graduate scholarships available.

Cutting-Edge Curriculum: Our program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving field of instructional design and educational technology. From learning theories to emerging technologies, you’ll explore the latest trends and best practices in the industry.

Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced faculty members who are leaders in the field of instructional design and technology. Benefit from their expertise, mentorship, and personalized guidance as you navigate your academic journey.

Hands-On Experience: Gain practical experience through hands-on projects, internships, and real-world applications. Collaborate with industry partners and organizations to tackle real-world challenges and make a meaningful impact in education.

Flexible Learning Options: Our program offers flexible learning options (asynchronous, online) allowing you to balance your studies with your professional and personal commitments.

Career Opportunities: Prepare for exciting career opportunities in diverse fields such as K-12 education, higher education, corporate training, healthcare, government, and nonprofit organizations. Our graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a variety of roles, including instructional designer, e-learning developer, educational technologist, curriculum developer, and more.

Academic Program: Instructional Design & Technology (IDT formally ITED)

Delivery Format: Online

Description: Welcome to Instructional Design & Technology (IDT) at Texas A&M University -Texarkana. We improve learning in diverse contexts using a wide range of tools, methods, and innovations. IT programs prepare students to be leaders in diverse learning contexts. These contexts include: K-12 public or private schools, military learning, museum education, online education, adult training, internet-mediated content development and delivery (also known as e-learning), workplace learning initiatives in business and industry, public/non-profit training, and higher education. Instructional Technology is one of the fastest growing fields in both business and education.

Required Hours: 36

Contact:
Dr. Kevin Williams – Associate Professor of Instructional Technology
Phone: (903) 223-3028
Email Kevin Williams

To top it off, we have graduate scholarships available here

Eligibility

  • Must be a new Graduate Student or Doctoral Student in a graduate or doctoral program
  • Must have a cumulative 3.0 graduate GPA, or if no graduate hours, 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA
  • All new students meeting this criteria will qualify

Renewal Requirements

  • Must maintain a cumulative 3.0 Graduate GPA
  • Must enroll in a minimum of 6 hours each semester at A&M-Texarkana
  • Must earn as many hours as attempted each year 

 If you would like to find out more, please feel free to contact me or email Ms. Susan Gleason, Graduate Admissions Coordinator. 

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB)

Master of Education: Curriculum & Instruction with Teaching Certification

Learn how you can work full-time while earning your M.Ed and teaching certification in as little as three semesters (30 hours). Contact UMHB for more details.

 Master of Education: Educational Administration with Principal Certification

Learn how you can work full-time while earning your M.Ed and principal certification in as little as three semesters (30 hours). Contact UMHB for more details.

Doctor of Education: Educational Leadership (P-12, Higher Education, Nursing Education) 

Continue your education and earn your Ed.D and superintendent certification while taking ten Saturday classes a year! One week summer institutes include travel to Austin, Washington D.C., and Europe. UMHB offers a three year, embedded dissertation program. Contactlead@umhb.edufor more details.

University of Phoenix, Teaching Certificate (Fast-track)
Now enrolling for OCTOBER 22, 2024 online cohort!

As we begin a new school year and beyond, please keep this program in mind for career changers, those on emergency teaching certifications, and others who are seeking preparation for a teaching license. The focus includes strategies to prepare teacher candidates to be effective classroom teachers and further develop their teaching experience. This is a Post-Bachelor Teaching Certificate and requires a Bachelor degree for admission.

Contact me first for 10% off tuition cost. Email Penny Roberts

University of Phoenix, Certificate programs provide a shorter track into teaching for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree outside of education.

Graduate Initial Teacher Certificate/ Secondary Education ( 6-12 grade, single subject)
Graduate Initial Teacher Certificate/ Elementary Education (K -5 grade)

Program starts on October 22, 2024
Deadline to enroll by October 10, 2024

Benefits:

  • 24 – 27 credits= 8- 9 online classes
  • 10% off tuition cost
  • 100% online asynchronous, access the classroom 24/7
  • Take one course at a time to balance work/school
  • Complete in approximately 15 months
  • Financial aid eligible
  • We will guide students with state licensure requirements
  • View all Teacher Certification programs

For more information contact, Penny Roberts
Email or Phone: 714.648.5855

Walden University 

Walden University’s Empowering Education Scholarships and Sweepstakes for Round Rock ISD Employees

Are you ready to ignite positive change in your community and classroom, and take the next steps toward your personal and professional growth? If so, Walden University invites you to apply for a scholarship to continue your education.

Multiple partial scholarships will be awarded to Walden education partners, including members of Round Rock Independent School District.

Thankful for you SweepstakesEnter to win a 40 oz. Stanley® cup* to keep yourself hydrated and energized all day long.  As part of our mission for social change, Walden will donate $1 for every entry (up to $1,200) to Feeding America.

Our Thankful For You Sweepstakes deadline is 11/29/2024 & the scholarship deadline is 11/30/2024. Learn about this event more and apply.

Established in 1970, Walden University and The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This means the college has met rigorous standards for demonstrating excellence and continuous improvement in educator preparation. For more information on our degree programs and tuition reduction benefits visit www.WaldenU.edu/RRISD

*Eligible members of Round Rock Independent School District can receive a 10% tuition reduction on over 80 Walden degree program, including:

  • BS in Early Childhood Studies – Tempo Competency-Based Learning
  • BS in Elementary Education (Teacher Licensure)
  • Master of Arts in Teaching Special Ed (K-age 21)
  • Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary Ed
  • MSED with 15 specializations available
  • EdS in Education Leadership and Administration (Principal Licensure Prep)
  • Doctor of Education with with 13 specializations available
  • PhD in Education with 11 specializations available

UNIVERSITY DEGREE PROGRAMS –  UPCOMING INFORMATION SESSIONS ON PD DAYS FOR NON-EXEMPT

Dates
February 19, 2024

Times
WGU Texas (9:00-9:30 a.m.)
GCU (10:00-11:00 a.m.)

Location
WGU Meeting Link – Virtual

Audience
For Non-Exempt Employees

 

Dates
April 10, 2024

Times
WGU Texas (9:00-9:30 a.m.)
GCU (10:00-11:00 a.m.)

Location
WGU Meeting Link – Virtual

Audience
For Non-Exempt Employees