Teacher Certification

The myPSC website is your gateway to managing your teaching certificate with the
Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GAPSC).  Register for an account here. 
Through this portal you can complete your Personal Affirmation Questions (PAQs),
request to take GACE exams, access a copy of your certificate, search GAPSC
approved upgrade programs or apply for any certificate changes.  If you’re having
trouble logging into your myPSC account, please contact the Human Resources
Department at HR@tcjackets.net.

Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy (TAPP)

Georgia TAPP is offered through Southwest Georgia RESA - our Regional Educational Service Agency.  This program can be completed in approximately 12-15 months and is completed while working in a certified teaching position.  At this time, Thomas County Schools covers the tuition for our TAPP candidates with certain stipulations found in a Memorandum of Understanding.  The applicable GACE or content exam must be passed before entry into the program.  Annual cohorts begin in early July.  Upon completion of the program, successful candidates will hold professional teaching certification in the State of Georgia.

Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

MAT programs are offered through colleges and universities.  These programs can be completed in approximately 15-18 months and are completed while working in a certified teaching position.  The MAT candidate is responsible for choosing a program, applying for the program and all tuition expenses.  It is very important candidates confirm their MAT program is approved by Georgia PSC before entering the program.  This website can be used for that purpose.  Passing the applicable GACE or content exam may be required to enter a program.  Upon completion of a MAT program, successful candidates will hold a Master’s degree and a professional teaching certification in the State of Georgia.

The Thomas County Schools Human Resources Department coordinates with and assists current certified teachers and paraprofessional educators to renew their certificates and licenses whenever their credentials are due for renewal.  Any questions about  certificate or license renewals can be directed to HR@tcjackets.net.

If you are a retired certified Georgia educator and your certificate is due for renewal, you
can contact the Human Resources Department for guidance at HR@tcjackets.net.  In
some cases, the professional certificate can be renewed for another 5 year period.  In
other cases, you may want to apply for a Retired Educators Certificate.  It is preferred for
retired certified Georgia educators who are classroom substitutes - without a valid
professional certificate - to hold a Retired Educator Certificate.