PI 34 Frequently Asked Questions

Master Educator

How does an educator obtain a Master Educator License?

The Master Educator License is an optional 10-year license. There are two paths to becoming a master educator in the state of Wisconsin: The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) and the Wisconsin Master Educator Assessment Process (WMEAP).

The NBPTS route allows teachers to participate in a rigorous assessment process and receive NBPTS Certification. This option is available to teachers in most subject areas. There is a stipend to help offset the cost of applying for NBPTS certification as well as a stipend for candidates who successfully complete the process and remain as teachers in Wisconsin classrooms. For more information about NBPTS Certification (including pre-requisites), go to: dpi.wi.gov/tepdl/nb.html.

WMEAP is currently targeted toward helping educators, such as administrators, pupil services personnel, and teachers licensed in subjects not available through NBPTS and who want to be master educators. Educators interested in this license must submit an application to the department. If accepted, the educator has up to two years to complete a performance-based portfolio that is then assessed by DPI-trained WMEAP Assessors. For more information about WMEAP (including pre-requisites) and links to guidebooks for administrators, pupil service personnel, and teachers, go to: dpi.wi.gov/tepdl/wmeapsumm.html.

If someone is successful in completing either the NBPTS or WMEAP assessment process, that educator can apply for a 10-year Master Educator License. If the educator is not successful in the assessment, s/he still may renew their current Professional Educator License on the basis of completing the NBPTS or WMEAP application and portfolio process.

What are the benefits and incentives associated with becoming a Master Educator?

Through the process of attaining the Master Educator License, educators demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of an effective "master" educator. An educator who has obtained certification through NBPTS or has successfully been assessed through WMEAP is eligible for a 10-year Master Educator License. Further, if a candidate is successful in obtaining NBPTS certification, they are eligible for up to $2,500 per year for nine years as long as they remain a teacher in a Wisconsin classroom.

Who assesses the WMEAP applications and portfolios?

WMEAP applications and portfolios are evaluated by a three member assessment team who have been trained by DPI, nominated by a professional organization, and approved for appointment by the state superintendent. For more information about WMEAP assessors, go to: dpi.wi.gov/tepdl/wmeapsumm.html.

Resources

Master Educator Page
PI 34 FAQ
Other FAQ Licensing Topics

For questions about this information, contact Charlene M. Koci (608) 267-9215

Last updated on 8/22/2008 2:00:42 PM