Music Teachers National Association


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Validation Process


Step II of the initial certification process contains the requirements for validating and fulfilling Standard II Professional Teaching Practices, Standard III Professional Business Management and Standard IV Professionalism and Partnerships. The requirements for these Standards represent what a competent music teacher should be able to do. They must be validated by successfully completing one of the following three options:

Option 1: Certification Examination

A written, practical examination in which the common body of knowledge validated in Step I to fulfilling Standard I is applied to everyday teaching situations. (See the MTNA Professional Certification Study Guide for Certification Examinations.)

Option 2: Certification Portfolio

A portfolio of documents and materials that reflect the candidate's professional preparation, teaching practices, ability to operate a successful studio/classroom, professional involvement and ability to develop partnerships. (See the Guidelines for the Certification Portfolio.)

Option 3: Administrative Verification

Written verification from a college or university administrator that the part-time or full-time college or university faculty member's credentials meet the requirements for fulfilling Standards II, III and IV.

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