Alternative Certification for Teachers - Rio Grande Valley (ACT-RGV) is an alternative certification program that offers a non-traditional pathway to becoming a certified teacher in Texas. Fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency, ACT-RGV provides an alternative to traditional university-based teacher preparation programs. Alternative certification programs were first introduced in Texas in 1986 by the state legislature to create new pathways for individuals entering the teaching profession. ACT-RGV opened in 2000 after being accredited by the Texas Education Agency and was the second private alternative certification program approved in the State of Texas.
Government/Nonprofit organization
Pharr, TX
ACT-RGV awards and recognitions:
2022–2023 Certificate of Commendation for Exemplary Performance in Preparing the Educators Texas Needs– Awarded for a high percentage of teachers prepared in designated shortage areas.
2021–2022 Certificate of Commendation for Exemplary Performance in Preparing the Educators Texas Needs– Awarded for a high percentage of teachers prepared in designated shortage areas.
2021–2022 Quality Matters Online Course Certifications– Courses certified for meeting national standards of quality in online education.
ACT-RGV is a state-accredited alternative certification program designed for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education and are passionate about becoming teachers. This program is ideal for aspiring educators who are driven to make a difference in their communities and are ready to take on the rewarding challenge of teaching. Through a combination of strong content development, research-based training, and real-world classroom experience, you will be fully prepared for the teacher certification process.
You will benefit from the guidance of outstanding instructors and dedicated field supervisors who provide the knowledge, tools and support needed for success. What sets ACT-RGV apart is its mission-driven approach that not only equips you to become an effective educator but also nurtures you into a leader and advocate who will leave a legacy of service in your community. You can expect a comprehensive, supportive, empowering journey that helps you grow professionally and personally. The ultimate mission of ACT-RGV is to change the future one teacher at a time by preparing outstanding educators who ensure every child reaches their full potential.
Please note, there is a nonrefundable application fee of $150. Learn more about program pricing here.
Upcoming Deadlines
Deadlines
Program Start
May 12, 2025
Summer
Sep. 01, 2025
Fall
Jan. 05, 2026
Spring
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Certifications
Bilingual Education Supplemental Core Subjects (4-8) Core Subjects (Pre-K-6) English Language Arts and Reading (4-8) English Language Arts and Reading (7-12) English as a Second Language Supplemental Mathematics (4-8) Mathematics (7-12) Science (4-8) Science (7-12) Social Studies (4-8) Social Studies (7-12) Special Education Trade & Industrial Education
Program Overview
The alternative certification program is structured in two distinct phases.
Phase 1– Pre-Internship requires you to successfully complete the following components before advancing to Phase 2:
A minimum of 150 hours of training, delivered either in person or synchronously online
50 hours of Field-Based Experience observations, including at least 25 hours of interactive experiences
Successful completion of the required content exam(s)
Upon fulfillment of Phase 1 requirements, you will become eligible to advance to Phase 2.
Phase 2 depends on your chosen pathway, and will consist of one of the following:
An internship or
Clinical teaching or
A residency
Program Hallmarks
ACT-RGV is committed to interactive, research-based practices that effectively prepare you for the classroom. Throughout the program, you will have multiple opportunities to engage in hands-on practice and receive personalized coaching. These practice-based experiences enable you to refine your teaching skills and deepen your understanding of effective instructional strategies.
ACT-RGV believes that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. That’s why you will be thoroughly prepared to work with different student populations and meet the unique needs of every learner. In support of its commitment to educational success for all students, ACT-RGV provides the following support:
You will be required to complete and pass a special education for general education teachers course.
You can pursue an English as a Second Language or bilingual supplemental certification.
Practice-based education is a cornerstone of the coursework at ACT-RGV. The instructors and field supervisors design meaningful opportunities for you to engage in run-throughs, lesson rehearsals and micro-teaching sessions.
These structured practice experiences allow for targeted, real-time coaching and actionable feedback focused on high-leverage teaching practices. Meaningful feedback is provided weekly by instructors, field supervisors and mentors.
ACT-RGV partners with school districts throughout the Rio Grande Valley and across Texas to ensure you receive the highest quality training. It also collaborates with the Texas Education Agency and various community stakeholders to provide comprehensive, real-world preparation for future educators.
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