Last week, MINW received the long-awaited update from the OCCD regarding what step MINW graduates can enter the registry.  For those who strictly take the training, and do not earn, or already have, a B.Ed. or a M.Ed., you may apply for a step 8.5.  Then, if you would like to earn a higher step, you may take more community based training hours (or present your certificates you have earned over the years to have them evaluated by Patsy Kohout at OCCD).  It is unclear how many years back this offer will be granted (i.e. retroactively awarded). 

In order for MINW graduates to apply for the step 8.5, you will need to send in a copy of both the MINW transcript and a copy of your AMI diploma.  This step award only applies to graduates of MINW.  It does not apply to those with Montessori certification from other trainings.

Additionally, if you have a B.A. or M.Ed. you most likely know that you may send in a copy of your degree, and complete the on-line OCCD application and you will be awarded a step based upon your traditionally articulated degree.

Also, for those of you who are earning training hours via the OCCD, many of MINW's community education offerings this year will be on the statewide training calendar, and are pre-approved at the Set 2 level, so you will be able to earn professional development hours at MINW.

As of June 1st, Janet Lewis will be the person at MINW to whom you can direct your questions about the articulation of MINW's trainings with the OCCD.

Thank you to Laura Pilkington for her hard work on this project!