Certification

Get Inspired. WeTeach_CS resources have helped over 600 educators across the country achieve high school computer science certification.

Earn a $1000 Stipend!

WeTeach_CS manages the Certification Incentive Program (CIP) that provides a $1000 stipend for Texas teachers who pass the CS 8-12 Test and obtain TEA CS certification. Hopefully, the stipend will help motivate you in your studies, and it will be a nice reward for your hard work! Instructions for applying for the stipend including eligibility, deadlines, and requirements are located lower on this page. Applications for the incentive program are due before testing.

Apply for the $1,000 Stipend at: https://utakeit.tacc.utexas.edu/cip/

Application Steps

  1. You will be required to Create a UT EID (if you do not have one), or Login with your UT EID.
  2. You will be prompted to complete your profile in UTakeIt.
  3. You will then be able to Start the Application.

Learn About CS Certification

Please visit Pearson's website for details and registration: http://www.tx.nesinc.com

Passing the Texas Education Agency's (TEA) Computer Science 8-12 Certification Test, Test Code 241 (CS 8-12 Test) is required to teach the following high school programming-based courses: Fundamentals of CS (can also be taught in Middle School), CS I, CS II and CS III. See the TEA's CS course detail for more information on each course. This test is also recommended to teach the two Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science courses: AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A. Please note that while some resources are free, there are also approximately $180 in TEA registration and application fees for the test and certification. WeTeach_CS provides a limited number of $1000 stipends for teachers who become CS certified. It is essential that you apply for the CIP program before registering for the test to verify availability. The Register and Take Test section provides details.

The CS 8-12 Test 241 covers four domains. (Scoring weight indicated below.)

  • Domain I – Technology Applications Core (12.5%)
    Understand how to use applications, data, networks, and the Internet to complete simple tasks and large projects.
  • Domain II – Program Design and Development (35%)
    Understand how to design and plan coding efforts.
  • Domain III – Programming Language Topics (40%)
    Write code using data, data types, arrays, loops, control structures, and data structures.
  • Domain IV – Specialized Topics (12.5%)
    This section covers advanced topics such as robotics, digital forensics, discrete math, and game design.

Prepare

If you have a standard or lifetime TEA teaching certificate and a bachelor's degree, you can earn a CS certification via the TEA's Certification By Exam option, which involves passing the CS 8-12 Test. This path requires that you learn the CS content and related pedagogy on your own before taking the test. Test preparation is a significant amount of work. For most teachers, this effort will include one or two years of learning, practice and professional development. Note that if you don't have experience using computer applications, networks, and the Internet, we recommend that you pursue these types of experiences before taking on CS certification.

There are many paths to prepare for the test. For example, if you have significant programming experience, you might be able to pass the test without preparing. Also, there are multiple content providers (Code.org, Code Academy, etc.) and languages (Java, Javascript, and Python) that you could choose, based on your preference. If you are looking for direction in this area, we outline one path that will prepare you for the test. Choose the button below to view and print a detailed checklist.

> Certification Prep Checklist

Certification Incentive Program (CIP)

CIP provides a $1000 stipend to teachers who apply, pass the 241 test and obtain TEA CS 8-12 certification.

We are currently accepting CIP Applications.

You are potentially eligible for the CIP stipend if you meet all of the following criteria:

  • You are pursuing a TEA certification in Computer Science 8-12. You do not currently hold a certification in Computer Science or Computer Information Systems.
  • You are currently certified to teach in Texas and the teacher of record in a public or charter school classroom OR enrolled in a TEA approved teacher certification program in Texas.
  • View the CIP Checklist for complete requirements and application information.

Currently Certified Teachers

Start Teaching!

Congratulations! We wish you the best in the classroom and your career!

Professional Development and Curriculum

WeTeach_CS offers online and in-person trainings to prepare for the certification exam. We also encourage new CS teachers to apply for participation in the TEALS program. This program, supported by Microsoft Philanthropies, connects classroom teachers with tech-industry volunteers to create sustainable CS programs. Volunteers support teachers as they learn to teach CS independently over time. It is FREE to schools.

Online

Foundations of CS for Teachers: TExES Prep

Learn key computer science topics to improve instruction and prepare for the TExES Computer Science teacher certification test.

Foundations of CS for Teachers: Praxis Prep

This course explores and guides you through all 196 required competencies stipulated by the Praxis 5652 topic list, using a Canvas-based online course. The Course includes videos, online interactives, web-based lessons, hundreds of practice exercises, module quizzes and a Final Exam similar to the actual Praxis test, all aligned to the Praxis 5652 Computer Science competencies.

WeTeach Cert Prep Practice - Computer Science

The WeTeach_CS Cert Prep Practice contains 24 quizzes that each contain ten questions on topics outlined in the Praxis 5652 or the TExES 241 test specifications + two exams, one for Praxis and one for TExES. Suggested if you need additional practice after taking our course, or a great option for those who wish to check their knowledge without taking the course.

WeTeach TExES Tech Apps EC - 12 (242) Practice Packet

This practice packet contains 12 quizzes containing ten questions on each of the competencies outlined in the TExES 242 test specifications for EC through 12 Technology Applications. In addition to the quizzes, there is a practice exam. This exam will present a random selection of 12 questions one from each of the 12 quizzes.

In-Person

WTCS certification prep is a three-day training providing an overview of the educator competencies required of all teachers to become certified in Grades 8-12 Computer Science. This certification is necessary to teach courses such as Computer Science I, II or III, Fundamentals of Computer Science, or AP Computer Science A. Course instructors will address several competencies in depth and link attendees to additional resources that will help to prepare them to take the TExES 241 CS 8-12 Certification Test. It's recommended that participants be familiar with technology application concepts and have some experience with a non-block programming language, such as Java or Python. This course is offered throughout the year.

In-person trainings are provided throughout the year.

These are offered throughout Texas. If you would like to bring a face-to-face praxis prep training to your state, contact Carol Fletcher. WeTeach_CS can provide direct training to teachers in your state and can also train your trainers to deliver this workshop.

Curricula

WeTeach_CS for HS
Whether you are a beginning computer science teacher or an experienced veteran, WeTeach_CS for HS provides all the instruction, materials, and support you need to teach a first year computer science course using three programming platforms: Scratch, Jeroo, and Java.

WeTeach_AP®CSA
The WeTeach_AP®CSA curriculum is aligned with new College Board CED (Course Exam Description) for Computer Science "A". Each module is structured around objectives that provide context and relevance for you and your students. Designed with teachers in mind, WeTeach_AP®CSA offers professional support through an online help desk, virtual office hours with the course developers, and forums for peer to peer collaboration on the curriculum.

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