EPI Certificate

(27 Credit Hours)

Program Coordinator

Araceli Cumbo
941-408-1481
CumboA@SCF.edu

SCF’s Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) offers a high-quality teacher preparation pathway for individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree. Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will demonstrate proficiency in the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices and submit a comprehensive professional portfolio documenting their mastery, and have met the reading requirements set by FDOE.

This limited access program requires candidates to obtain a Statement of Eligibility for certification from the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE), demonstrate good moral character, and possess the professional disposition suitable for entering the teaching profession. Candidates must also pass the General Knowledge Test (GKT) and their Subject Area Exam (SAE).

The FLDOE recognizes this program as part of the state-legislated EPI designed to support individuals with non-education bachelor’s degrees in meeting the requirements for K-12 teacher certification. The program is competency-based and offers a high-quality certification pathway. Courses are delivered in a blended format and carry institutional load hour credit.

Admission requirements for the SCF Educator Preparation Institute are:

1.     Possess an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a 2.5 GPA
2.     Obtain a statement of the status of eligibility from FDOE stating “You are eligible” for certification
3.     Acquire passing scores on the General Knowledge Test (GKT) or provide documentation of a master’s degree and Subject Area Exam (SAE)
4.     Provide philosophy statement
5.     Complete EPI application and 
6.     Attend an EPI orientation session

Program Goals:

• Design and deliver effective, standards-aligned instruction that incorporates current learning theory, diverse instructional strategies, and developmentally appropriate practices to meet the needs of all students.
• Create and manage a supportive and safe learning environment by applying effective classroom management techniques, establishing consistent routines, and promoting student engagement and positive behavior.
• Assess and analyze student performance using a variety of assessment tools and data sources to monitor progress, inform instruction, and communicate results to stakeholders.
• Differentiate instruction and implement targeted supports to address the academic needs of diverse learners, including students with exceptionalities and English language learners.
• Integrate technology effectively into instructional planning and delivery to enhance learning, foster student engagement, and support 21st-century skill development.
• Demonstrate professional conduct and decision-making consistent with the Florida Educator Accomplished Practices (FEAPs), including legal requirements