RaVeann Rogers

WGU

The Education Professional - D752

Prof. Bethani Studebaker

Dec 6, 2024
Part A

In completing the Muzzy Lane activities, I demonstrated several professional

dispositions, particularly in the areas of communication, integrity, and professionalism. In the

Accepting Feedback activity, I exhibited a growth mindset by being open to constructive

criticism, using the feedback to reflect on my own practices and identify areas for

improvement. For example, when faced with feedback on my decision-making, I took the

time to consider the suggestions carefully and adjust my approach in future interactions. In

the Social Media Policy activity, I applied professionalism and integrity by ensuring that my

use of social media is in compliance with the ethical guidelines for educators, recognizing the

importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries and protecting my students' privacy.

Scoring 88% in this activity reflected my understanding of these values and how they apply

in a professional context. In the Professional Communications activity, I used clear and

respectful communication to engage with colleagues, demonstrating a commitment to

fostering positive and professional relationships in the workplace. Although I scored 83%,

which is satisfactory, I can continue refining my communication skills by practicing clarity

and active listening in future interactions. Through these activities, I reinforced my

understanding of how professional dispositions shape ethical decision-making and effective

collaboration.

Part B

i. Program Name: Master of Arts in Teaching, Special Education (MATSPED).

ii. Licensure or Non-Licensure: It is a licensure program that leads to an initial

licensure in Special Education (K-12) teaching certificate (MATSPED).

iii. EdPrep Program and Licensure Handbook: https://cm.wgu.edu/t5/Ed-Prep-

Program-and-Licensure/Texas-Teacher-Licensure/ta-p/5021
 iv. Clinical Experience Handbook: https://www.wgu.edu/admissions/clinicals-student-

teaching.html

v. Part C

Explain the role of the WGU School of Education's restorative practices.

The WGU School of Education integrates restorative practices as a cornerstone of its

Healthy Learning Initiative to create an inclusive, empathetic, and equitable learning

environment. These practices emphasize repairing harm and resolving conflicts

collaboratively rather than using punitive measures (WGU, 2023). Rooted in empathy and

accountability, this approach fosters healing relationships, equips learners with tools for

personal and professional growth, and strengthens community bonds. By addressing conflicts

through reflective and inclusive processes, restorative practices promote safety, respect, and

belonging, enabling students and faculty to thrive.

Besides, restorative practices are supported by a comprehensive, research-based

professional development framework for faculty and staff. This training encourages self-

awareness, reduces biases, and equips educators to handle conflicts constructively while

valuing diverse perspectives (WGU, 2023). Faculty model these practices to students by

creating spaces for open dialogue and learning through teachable moments. By replacing

shame-based discipline with trust-building and collaboration, WGU’s restorative framework

nurtures a positive culture that benefits students, faculty, and the broader university

community.

Part D

1. Educator Preparation Program Gateway Requirements

The WGU Educator Preparation Program Gateway involves specific steps and requirements

to ensure candidates are ready for entry into the teaching program. Here are the key

requirements;
  Bachelor’s Degree

Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution for graduate-

level licensure programs or be pursuing an undergraduate licensure pathway.

 Submission of Transcripts

Official academic transcripts are required to verify educational background.

 Basic Skills Assessment

Candidates must pass a state-approved basic skills assessment, such as the Praxis

Core or other equivalent tests, demonstrating proficiency in reading, writing, and

mathematics

 Content Exam Requirements

State-mandated subject-specific content exams may also be required. Candidates must

register, complete, and submit passing scores for these exams.

 Background Check

A clearance process, including fingerprinting, ensures eligibility to work with students

as part of clinical experiences and student teaching.

 Personal Statement or Essay

Some programs require submission of a personal essay or statement of purpose

reflecting the candidate's motivation and commitment to teaching.

 Technology Competency

Familiarity with WGU’s online learning platforms and competency-based learning

models is essential.

 State-Specific Requirements

Candidates must adhere to additional requirements set by their state, which could

include coursework related to state history or teacher performance assessments.

Early Clinical Gateway Requirements

specific benchmarks before progressing to clinical experiences. The requirements include;

 Passing the Basic Skills Exam: Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in

foundational teaching skills through a basic skills assessment. This requirement

ensures readiness for more advanced stages of teacher training.

 Completing Preclinical Coursework: Students must complete all required coursework

related to the early stages of teacher preparation. This coursework typically includes

content on pedagogy, classroom management, and learning theories.

 Submitting Background Clearance: A current background check must be on file to

ensure compliance with legal and placement site requirements.

 Demonstrating Professional Dispositions: Candidates must show qualities such as

responsibility, collaboration, and ethical behavior, which are assessed through various

program milestones.

 Content Knowledge Demonstration: Students are required to prove mastery of subject

matter, often via content-specific exams or performance tasks.

 Placement Approval: The WGU Placement Coordinator will ensure that all site-

specific compliance requirements are met, such as immunizations and other

documentation.

 Verification of CPR Certification and Health Insurance: Some programs require proof

of current CPR certification and health insurance before placement.

Advanced Clinical Gateway Requirements

The Advanced Clinical Gateway at Western Governors University (WGU) prepares

candidates for full-time student teaching and includes several specific requirements to ensure

readiness. The requirements include;

comply with educational standards.

 Immunizations and Health Screenings: Verification of immunization records,

including MMR, Varicella, and other vaccines as mandated by the program or

placement site, as well as TB testing.

 Compliance with Placement-Specific Requirements: Depending on the clinical site,

additional onboarding, such as drug screening or site-specific forms, may be required.

 Documentation: Submission of detailed documentation, such as transcripts, pre-

clinical evaluations, and signed agreements with the clinical placement sites.

 Preceptor or Site Approval: Students must secure placement in an approved clinical

site with a qualified preceptor, meeting specific criteria for educational quality and

relevance to their licensure area

2. Completion/Graduation Gateway Requirements

To successfully complete the WGU Completion/Graduation Gateway, candidates must

meet several requirements, including;

 Passing State-Mandated Content Exams: This involves demonstrating mastery of

subject areas aligned with licensure and degree requirements. Candidates are typically

responsible for registering and paying for these exams and submitting passing scores

to WGU.

 Successful Completion of All Coursework: This includes both performance and

objective assessments as outlined in the degree plan. Candidates must meet WGU's

competency-based standards.

 Maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP): Students need to complete a

minimum percentage of competency units to remain in good academic standing,

which is critical for graduation.

requirements, candidates must fulfill additional state licensure prerequisites, which

may include background checks, additional coursework, or specific state exams.

 Submitting Final Demonstration Teaching Evaluations: For programs involving

student teaching, candidates must successfully complete their teaching evaluations as

per WGU standards.

3. Texas Licensure Pathway

a. State for Licensure: Texas

EdPrep and Licensure Handbook: The detailed requirements for licensure in Texas,

including pathways and specific expectations for candidates pursuing initial teaching licenses

through WGU, can be found on the Texas - Initial Licensure Teacher Programs page. This

page outlines the program requirements, pathways for licensure, and details regarding how

WGU's programs align with Texas's licensure processes. For example, after completing

WGU's Master of Arts in Teaching (Special Education) program, candidates follow Texas’s

out-of-state educator licensure pathway, requiring specific exams and additional professional

training

b. The licensure pathway for WGU’s Master of Arts in Teaching (Special Education)

program in Texas is reciprocity-based (WGU, 2024). Candidates first obtain their

teaching license in Utah, which serves as WGU's home state for initial licensure.

Once the Utah license is granted, candidates apply for Texas licensure as out-of-state

certified educators. This process involves submitting credentials for a review by the

Texas Education Agency (TEA) and may include passing additional state-specific

assessments, such as TEA-required content and professional tests.

4. True: In order to graduate and receive a degree from WGU, candidates must

complete all degree requirements for graduation. This includes fulfilling academic
 coursework, performance assessments, and any other program-specific requirements

outlined in the degree plan (WGU, n.d.).

5. True: To receive a recommendation for a teaching license, a candidate must first

graduate from an initial licensure program and earn their degree (WGU, n.d.). WGU’s

process ensures that only graduates who have met all program requirements, including

student teaching and passing required licensure exams, are eligible for licensure

recommendation.
 References

WGU. (2023, May 25). Restorative practices. Western Governors University.

https://www.wgu.edu/blog/tclc/restorative-practices2305.html

WGU. (2024, October 23). Program Guidebook: Master of Arts in Teaching, Special

Education. Western Governors University – Online College.

https://www.wgu.edu/content/dam/wgu-65-assets/western-governors/documents/

program-guides/teaching/MATSPED.pdf

WGU. (n.d.). Online teaching certification programs – Becoming a licensed teacher. Western

Governors University. https://www.wgu.edu/online-teaching-degrees/teacher-

licensure-programs.html