- How do I apply?
Complete and return an application to TEEI. No payment is due with the application form. A TEEI representative will contact you to design an accreditation plan and a fee structure specific to your center. - How much does accreditation cost?
Fees vary depending on the size of the center, length of operation, and ownership/franchise relationship. Please fill out an application and a TEEI representative will contact you to design an accreditation plan and a fee structure specific to your center. General fees are listed here. - What happens if I do not achieve accreditation status according to my agreed upon plan within the time frame?
It is possible to apply for an extension at $50 per month for a maximum of 3 months. If you do not apply for an extension, your account will become inactive. There is a $150 reactivation fee. It is TEEI’s goal to guide you through this accreditation process within the agreed upon time frame. Please inform your TEEI representative if you know you are not on target in advance so your plan can be adjusted. TEEI Policies & Procedure - How long does my accreditation last?
After the first year as a Candidate, your accreditation status is reviewed every 3 years, then every 5 years thereafter. Annually, accreditation dues are paid based on student enrollment. Your accreditation ceases if your dues are not paid annually. You will receive a TEEI Certificate annually that substantiates your accreditation status. - Why choose accreditation?
Directors/owners choose TEEI nationwide to affirm publicly that their centers maintain standards of excellence. TEEI accreditation ensures excellence in 6 core areas; Educational Programming, Staff Credentials, Site Requirements, Curriculum Objectives, Student Assessment & Planning, Management & Finance. Parents prefer accredited centers since staff must possess Federal FBI clearance, State Police Clearance, and State Child Abuse Registry Clearance, ensuring safety for children. - Is Accreditation mandatory?
Currently, the Pennsylvania Department of Education requires that all Tutoring, Remedial, and Testing Centers in PA be either licensed or accredited. This is not an option in the state of PA. Several states are considering PA requirements as the supplemental education industry expands in an effort to ensure a level of safety and quality to students and families in their communities. TEEI strongly encourages accreditation regardless of state mandates to ensure safety, professionalism, and meaningful learning experiences for students. - What is the difference between accreditation and licensing?
Licensing is granted through a state or government agency. This process usually requires an in-service training and can be a cumbersome and confusing process for educators. State licensing requires state certified teachers on staff. TEEI’s accreditation process is tailored per center, simplifying the process for each owner and director. TEEI requires qualified but not certified tutors. TEEI provides trainings, conferences, and a wealth of material for TEEI centers. In the near future, TEEI plans to have a scholarship program for eligible students. TEEI plans to have an Environmental Educational program for supplemental centers in 2009. - Do I have to be a certified teacher/director to be eligible for accreditation?
No, neither teacher certification nor a license is not mandatory. Please contact a TEEI representative to review your experienc. Contact Us - What background clearances do me and center staff need?
For TEEI accreditation, State Child Abuse Registry Clearance, State Criminal Background Clearance, and FBI Fingerprinting Clearance Library - How long does the accreditation process take?
This varies greatly from center to center depending on several factors; how long/if the center has been operational, Director experience/qualifications, amount of staff/qualifications, student volume, center site, location. Please contact a TEEI representative who can design an accreditation plan and a fee structure specific to your center. - Will TEEI visit my center?
Yes, TEEI visits all centers within the first year, every three years, and five years thereafter. - What is the benefit of accreditation?
Accreditation ensures centers are safe and staffed with professionals whose backgrounds have been cleared. TEEI centers provide meaningful learning experiences for students with clear and consistent communication to parents and students. Centers that choose accreditation need not employ certified teachers. This enables accredited centers to offer reasonable rates yet maintain high standards of excellence in supplemental education. For PA centers, accreditation is an option in lieu of the required licensing. TEEI provides trainings, conferences, and a wealth of material for TEEI centers. In the near future, TEEI plans to have a scholarship program for eligible students. TEEI plans to have an Environmental Educational program for supplemental centers in 2009.
