A Change in Credentialing
Effective June 27, 2024, MDE began its transition from the School Social Worker Approval system to School Social Worker Certificates. The new School Social Worker Certificates are multi-level, renewable credentials.
Eligibility for a School Social Worker Certificate will no longer be attached to employment, and the certificate will be issued directly to educators. This means that individual school social workers are responsible for applying for their certificates through the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS).
Intermediate school districts (ISDs), local education agencies (LEAs), or employers may continue to apply for School Social Work Approvals during the transition year of 2024-25 until July 1, 2025.
Individuals holding Approvals may apply for a School Social Worker Certificate at any time.
During this transition year, individuals applying for a School Social Worker Certificate will be exempt from paying the application fee until July 1, 2025 as an incentive to transition to the new certificate.
During this transition year, individuals applying for a School Social Worker Certificate will be exempt from paying the application fee until July 1, 2025 as an incentive to transition to the new certificate.
Transition information for Full Approvals
Individuals holding a valid School Social Worker Full Approval MAY choose to apply for a School Social Worker Certificate through MOECS.
- All Full Approvals issued prior to July 1, 2025 will remain valid as long as an individual continues to be employed as a school social worker and they maintain a valid Social Work License issued by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). A Full Approval expires when an individual is not employed as a school social worker for five or more consecutive years.
- Individuals currently holding a valid Full Approval and a valid Master Social Worker License (LMSW) issued by LARA may be eligible for a Professional School Social Worker Certificate.
- Individuals currently holding a valid Full Approval and a valid Limited Master Social Worker License (LLMSW) issued by LARA may be eligible for a Preliminary School Social Worker Certificate. They will become eligible to apply for a Professional School Social Worker Certificate after they have received a valid LMSW from LARA.
- Once a Full Approval expires due to unemployment, individuals may apply for a School Social Worker Certificate.
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About OPTIMISE
OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years).
The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams work with numerous partners, Michigan’s leading education organizations, and legislature to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work includes working with all levels of education to accomplish this goal.
OPTIMISE promotes twelve professions within Michigan’s special education field, steps to reach that profession, degree programs in the state, financial help with grants/scholarships, industry support, and a real-time job board.
Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.
Go to: OPTIMISE.education
