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Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP)

About

Education Service Center, Region 20, is one of 20 regional education service agencies within Texas that assist school districts in improving student performance and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of school operations. As a non-regulatory agency, its relationship with school districts is collaborative and supportive.

ESC-20's clients are its partners. To respond to their needs, ESC-20 provides an array of programs and services in the areas of administration, business support, certification and recruitment, curriculum, instruction and assessment, health and safety, professional development, specialized services and technology.

  • Government/Nonprofit organization
  • San Antonio, TX

Institution Links

  • Admissions
  • Online Application

TOPP has earned the following distinctions:

  • Fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency
  • Commended by TEA for the percentage of prepared teachers in teacher shortage areas
  • More than 90 percent of candidates who start their internships are certified
  • Two program candidates recognized as Teachers of the Year by their employing schools
  • Program candidates report a high level of satisfaction with customer service
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Certification-only

Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP)

  • From 14 to 36 months

    Program Duration

  • Hybrid

    Program Format

  • Pre-Test Required

    Yes

Relevant Links

Program

Program Info

The Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP) is a State Board of Educator Certification-approved alternative route to teacher certification coordinated by Education Service Center, Region 20. TOPP began providing services in 1986 and maintains a trustworthy and enduring reputation with its educational partners.

ESC-20 TOPP is the alternative certification program of choice for:

  • Professionals wanting a career change
  • College graduates who have decided to teach
  • Education majors who may have been unable to complete student teaching

Many adults do not have the luxury of taking an unpaid semester for student teaching. The program's flexible training schedule allows you to take training courses while working until you can secure a full-time teaching internship with full teacher pay.

Upcoming Deadlines

  • Deadlines

    Program Start

  • Jan. 14, 2025

    Winter

  • Feb. 04, 2025

    Spring

  • Sep. 24, 2025

    Fall

Get Deadline Reminders

Ways to Lower Your Costs

Students at Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP) have reduced the cost of their program using these methods. Check with Teacher Orientation and Preparation Program (TOPP) to see if you can, too!

Amount
Description

$5,000

Grants, Stipends, Scholarships

Ready to Work San Antonio funds are available if you meet certain eligibility criteria. Learn more.

Varies

Student Loans, Payroll Deduction

The College Access Loan program is an option for Texas students. You have six months to begin repayment after completing the program. Learn more.

Varies

Work Study, Working While Still Enrolled

As an alternative certification intern, you will earn a full teacher salary for the whole internship year.

Certifications

Art (Pre-K-12)
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 Language Arts and Reading / Social Studies (4-8)
English as a Second Language Supplemental
Junior ROTC (6-12)
Life Science (7-12)
Mathematics (4-8)
Mathematics (7-12)
Mathematics / Science (4-8)
Music (Pre-K-12)
Physical Education (Pre-K-12)
Science (4-8)
Science (7-12)
Social Studies (4-8)
Social Studies (7-12)
Spanish (Pre-K-12)

Get Started

Own the application process. Start a checklist to put yourself on track to becoming the best teacher you can be.