edTPA Information for Student Teachers

What is edTPA?

edTPA (educational Teacher Performance Assessment) is a national performance- based assessment currently being implemented in 33 States and Washington, D.C. The edTPA was developed by faculty and Staff at Standford University in partnership with the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE). edTPA is modeled after the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards’ assessments of accomplished veteran teachers, but it is designed for candidates seeking initial licensure.

Why do candidates need to complete an edTPA?

Candidates will not be able to obtain a Professional Educator's License without successfully completing an edTPA which becomes a requirement for licensure in the state of Illinois in Fall 2015. Effective September 1, 2015, all candidates for initial licensure in Illinois will need to score 35 or higher in order to pass the edTPA.

What do candidates need to do?

To successfully complete an edTPA, teacher candidates must submit a portfolio that consists of three tasks: Planning, Instruction and Assessment. Within this portfolio, student teachers are asked to submit artifacts (e.g., lesson plans, video clips, student work samples, etc.) to show evidence of their teaching. Students complete commentaries which also demonstrate reflection and the thinking behind their work.

What do candidates need to do to prepare for edTPA in their student teaching placement?

Teacher candidates need to inform their cooperating teacher and administers of their involvement in edTPA before their student teaching placement begins. School districts are becoming aware of the process through ISBE and communications from Aurora University. Student teachers will sign confidentiality agreements and provide their students with permission slips to be signed by parents. In addition, any other adults present while videotaping in the classroom will need to sign permission slips. All videos and documents related to edTPA are secured in a password-protected website that has limited access. Consequences for violating the privacy of the students and student material may result in disciplinary action up to and including a recommendation to suspend licensure.

What if a parent/guardian does not grant permission?

The candidate will make accommodations for students without a signed consent form.

What does the edTPA cost?

The edTPA costs $300, which includes official scoring and score reporting to the candidate and to the program designated by the candidate during registration. Additional score reports are $50. Retakes cost $100 for a single task (planning, instruction or assessment) or $300 for a complete edTPA.

Where can student teachers find information and support on edTPA?

edTPA is embedded in all EDU courses and seminars. All teacher candidates will complete a mini edTPA at one point in their program. Faculty and staff have been trained in edTPA. Students looking for more information on edTPA should contact a faculty member, a university supervisor or the edTPA coordinator.

What if a candidate doesn’t pass the edTPA?

Candidates who do not achieve the passing score may register to retake a single task ($100 fee) or the full edTPA ($300 fee). Guidelines for retake decision-making and instructions for candidates are available on the Pearson edTPA website at edtpa.com. To reduce the likelihood of a retake, candidates should take particular care to address every point in the commentary prompts and to provide evidence directly related to the criteria in the rubrics.

What additional resources are available?

  • Please visit edtpa.aacte.org for the latest updates and resources.
  • Visit ISBE at www.isbe.net. In the search box, type in "edTPA." Permission slips, updated information and documents are featured on the site.

Who do I contact for additional questions, concerns and support?

  • The university supervisor can provide support and information regarding edTPA.
  • Please contact Lisa Moore, edTPA coordinator for Aurora University, at lmoore@aurora.edu or 630-844-4643.