Conference Presentations

  
Session TitleDescriptionPresentation
Accreditation OverviewThis session will cover the basics of the accreditation cycle including preconditions submission, program review, Common standards review, and site visits. This session is most helpful to those that are new to their institution or to the accreditation process.Slidedeck
Determining Subject Matter CompetenceThis session will be led by CTC Staff to discuss processes for program sponsors to evaluate subject matter competence for teacher candidates.Slidedeck

CCAC Slidedeck
Foundations of Program Sponsorship 1This session is designed for beginning credential analysts and other key program personnel with two or fewer years of experience. The session will have significant time for questions and answers.

Examples of topics that will be addressed include an overview of general responsibilities of program sponsors, accreditation, standards and preconditions, approval processes, program sponsor resources, CTC Online/CIG resources, granting equivalencies, and the Accreditation Data System (ADS).
Slidedeck
Foundations of Program Sponsorship 2This session is designed for credential analysts and other key program personnel with TWO or more years of experience submitting credential recommendations as part of Commission-approved educator preparation programs. The session will have significant time for questions and answers.

Examples of topics that will be addressed are – How candidates can meet the basic skills and Subject matter requirements, transitioning from the RICA to LPA, and the change in status of programs from active to inactive or withdrawn. Time will be allotted for questions on other topics that may be of interest to participants.
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Credential Scenarios for Program SponsorsThis session is designed for advanced credential analysts and other key program personnel submitting credential recommendations as part of Commission-approved educator preparation programs. The session will allow for Program Sposnors to bring their unique scenarios to a session that draws on the expertise of the CTC and CCAC collegaues. While this session is designed for advanced levels, it is open to all levels.No Slidedeck
Teacher Induction Program UpdatesThis session will provide an overview of what to expect as programs prepare to fully implement the CSTP by fall 2026; a question and answer forum on teacher induction program topics, including information on the 2025 Continuum of Teaching Practice, will also be offered.Slidedeck
Performance Assessments: Updates for the CalTPA, EdSp CalTPA, and CalAPAJoin CTC Performance Assessment staff for an important update on the Commission’s teaching and administrative performance assessments. This session will provide key information about the CalTPA (Multiple Subject, PK-3, Single Subject, and World Languages), the Education Specialist CalTPA (Mild to Moderate Support Needs, Extensive Support Needs, Early Childhood Special Education, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and Visual Impairments), and the CalAPA Leadership Cycles 1-3. Learn about the launch of Version 1 (V1) of all CalTPA assessments and Version 8 of the CalAPA in 2025. Find out what’s new, what’s changing, and what programs and candidates need to know for successful implementation in the 2025-26 academic year.Slidedeck
Candidate Exams and Performance Assessments UpdatesThis session will provide an overview of updates to Commission-administered Candidate Exams and Performance Assessments. The discussion will include updates as a result of SB 1263, along with up-to-date details on the RICA sunset.Slidedeck
Special Education Program UpdatesInformation provided will be related to requirements for all Prelimlinary Education Specialist credentials, dual credentialing, bridge authorizations, and clinical practice guidance.Slidedeck
Teacher Intern ProgramsAn overview of intern programs inclduing, a review the eligibility requirements to become an intern and the Support and Supervision requirements for programs. Commission staff will also cover the ECO guidelines, when to withdraw intern credentials, how to change restrictions on an intern credential, and the recommended format for the intern professional development plan (PDP).Slidedeck
Commission Administered Grant Programs: Teacher and School Counselor ResidencyThis session will include information for local education agencies (LEAs) who may be interested in applying for a Teacher and School Counselor Residency Grant and those already operating grant-funded residency pathways. Attendees will hear an overview of the residency model and the legislative intent behind the investment California has made in the various residency programs. Additional session topics will include: the roles credential analysts and other HR staff may play in data collection, technical assistance available to interested applicants and funded grantees, a summary of recent legislative updates, and time for questions from attendees.Slidedeck
Commission Administered Grant Programs: Classified, Computer Science, DELPI, and Math/Read/LitThis session will include information for local education agencies (LEAs) who may be interested in applying for and for those already operating a grant funded program. Attendees will hear an overview of the legislative intent behind the over one billion dollar investment California has made in various grant programs. Session topics will include: the roles of credential analysts and other HR staff may play in data collection, technical assistance available to interested applicants and funded grantees, a summary of recent legislative updates, including AB 121 and the Student Teacher Stipend Program, and time for questions from attendees.Slidedeck
Planning for your upcoming site visitAn interactive session to support credential analysts to understand the site visit process and how you can work with your institution in preparation for your site visit.Slidedeck
Title II Reporting for 2024-25This session will provide an overview of Title II data collection and reporting, walking through Phase I and Phase II reporting procedures for the 2024-25 year, including where to access past year data reports.Slidedeck
Launching New Credential ProgramsThis session will provide a step-by-step overview of how program sponsors prepare and submit a proposal for a new educator preparation program or pathway. Commission staff will walk through the Initial Program Review (IPR) process from intent, to submission, to approval and implementation of a new program. Staff will also address the steps required to add a new intern pathway to an existing teacher preparation program.Slidedeck
Child Development Permit: Updates and Next Steps in ECE Teacher PreparationAttend this interactive session to learn about the approved updates to the Child Development Permit including the requirements for all permit levels. Options, terms, renewal, and an update on AB 1930 will be shared at this session.Slidedeck
PK-3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction Credential UpdatesThis interactive session will provide an overview of the PK3 Early Childhood Education Specialist Instruction credential, including requirements, approved preparation programs, and updates. Attendees will learn about resources available and spaces to engage in additional conversation related to the credential.Slidedeck
Building California’s Future: The Transformative Power of Teacher and Counselor Residency ProgramsJoin us for an active and informational session where you will learn how to initiate a teacher and counselor residency program with valuable support from the Statewide Residency Technical Assistance Center (SRTAC). We will guide you through the essential steps, strategies, and benefits of launching a residency program that aligns with best practices and leverages the resources and expertise offered by SRTAC. This session will highlight how educator residencies are improving recruitment, preparation, and readiness across California ultimately increasing retention and strengthening the educator workforce.Slidedeck
Administrative Services Credentials – Common SituationsThis session will focus primarily on special situations rather than discuss the various routes for the credential. These include: upgrading from a Certificate of Eligibility to the Preliminary and what happens if an educator forgets to do this, applying for the remainder of time on preliminary credentials, dependent dating, extension possibilities, and acceptable experience.Slidedeck
Assignment Monitoring OverviewThis session will highlight assignment monitoring roles and responsibilities, the importance of assignment monitoring and resulting assignment data, and how to approach monitoring within CalSAASSlidedeck
Assignment Monitoring WorkshopThis workshop will follow the main Assignment Monitoring Overview session and will include scenarios based on frequently asked questions to allow attendees to work together.Slidedeck
Credential Waivers 101This workshop will begin with a basic overview of waivers, including waiver requirements, resources, and helpful tips regarding waiver submissions. The session will also discuss the more complicated nuances of waiver applications including initial application submission, requirements for subsequent waiver requests, and general guidance on the more complex waiver issues.Slidedeck
Foundations of Certification: Session 1The first session in the Foundations of Certification series will provide participants with an overview of the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (Commission) and other state educational agencies, including a focus on the many Commission resources available to beginning analysts. The session will continue with a general overview of the process of submitting an application to the Commission, including a look at how an application is processed by Commission staff, the English Learner Authorization, emergency permits, and details on fee and fingerprint information.Slidedeck
Foundations of Certification: Session 2Session 2 in the Foundations of Certification series of workshops will provide an interactive overview of how and when to submit either a paper or online application. The session will also cover details on submitting an online recommendation, appropriate submission of application supporting materials such as transcripts and examination score reports, and will outline basic information that can be found on an educator’s Commission-issued document.Slidedeck
Foundations of Certification: Session 3The third session in the Foundations of Certification series will be an interactive overview of the topics covered in the first two sessions. This is an opportunity to practice what you learned and clarify any questions you may have from Foundations of Certification sessions 1 and 2. We will be working in groups, both small and large, to delve into different credential scenarios that credential analysts may actually encounter. Come ready to participate!Slidedeck + Kahoot
Hot Topics Q&AThe Hot Topics session will be a targeted discussion of specific interest to the field as we cover new items and topics for 2025. Recent law changes affecting credentialing, direct and courtesy application submission, including changes to the CTC Online portal for educators, employers, and programs, will be covered. Other subjects discussed will be question driven, so attendees are encouraged to bring topics for discussion that would be of interest to the wider audience.Slidedeck
On the Horizon & Conference Wrap-UpThis session will provide information on recent, current and upcoming work of the Commission. There will be time for questions and answers related to the work of the Commission’s Professional Services and Certification divisions.Slidedeck
Supplementary and Subject Matter AuthorizationsThis session will provide an overview of existing pathways for requesting supplementary and subject matter authorizations. Additionally, this session will focus on how AB 2473 enhances the opportunities for educators to request these added authorizations. Interactive examples will be provided.Slidedeck
Fingerprints 101 and the Educator Discipline ProcessThis session will be presented in two parts. The first part will cover fingerprint clearance information which includes when Live Scan is appropriate and when to use fingerprint cards, regulations that requires individuals to re-fingerprint, and when to resubmit prints or submit new prints. The second part will provide an overview of the procedures used in the Commission’s review of educator misconduct and informs educational employers about their duty to report and provide documents pertaining to educator misconduct to the Commission. A question and answer period will follow.Slidedeck – Ed Discipline

Slidedeck – Fingerprints
A Look at English Learner Education and Services in CaliforniaIn this session, representatives from the California Department of Education will provide an overview of the full spectrum of English learner education and services for English learners in California. Representatives from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing will provide an overview of the English Learner Authorizations for teachers who educate and provide services to English learners in California schools.Slidedeck – CTC

Slidedeck – CDE
Charter School Authorizing and Oversight Best Practices – Credentialing EditionCalifornia Education Code Section 47604.32 lists 5 things authorizers must do as their oversight duties. But, is that all that an authorizer should do? What are the best practices around charter authorizing oversight? What are the credentialing requirements for charter schools and how does that differ from other schools? What do you do if charter authorizing is only one part of your regular duties? All these questions and more will be answered in the 2025-26 Charter School Authorizing and Oversight Best Practices – Credentialing Edition session!Slidedeck
The Credential Analyst’s Role in CALPADS Data Submission, Review, and CertificationThis session will describe the activities that the credential analyst should be involved in during the course of the academic year leading up to the assignment monitoring cycle.Slidedeck
The Credential Analyst’s Role in CALPADS Data Submission, Review, and Certification
Workshop
This presentation is designed for new or beginning credential analysts with 1–5 years of experience, or for those seeking a refresher. It will focus on aligning state course codes with local course offerings. It will also highlight the credential analyst’s role in verifying course codes and assignments, and emphasize the importance of submitting accurate data.Slidedeck
UPK Overview / Transitional KindergartenThis presentation will give an overview of California’s Universal Prekindergarten (UPK). UPK is a mixed-delivery system encompassing many early education programs, such as transitional kindergarten (TK), California State Preschool Program (CSPP), and Head Start. Starting this year 2025-26, Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK), is available to all four-year-old children in California. As part of this, ensuring a strong and well-prepared workforce to support children and families is essential. The session will cover the UPK programs, workforce requirements, and updates from CDE for early educators. The information in this session will support educators interested in working with California’s youngest learners.Slidedeck
Best Practices – District/Charter/COESession is intended for those that work in County Offices of Ed, Distictics and Charters to meet and discuss topics that are relevant to working in the fieldSlidedeck
Best Practices -Program SponsorsSession is intended for those that work in colleges and universities to meet and discuss topics that are related to supporting students in credentialing programs. This session is intended for IHE or LEA Program SponsorsSlidedeck
CCAC Business MeetingThe annual business meeeting is hosted by the CCAC Board of Directors and President’s Advisory Committee, and is open to all conference attendees. Topics include an overview of the operations and activities of the 2025 membership year. During this meeting, CCAC members will have an opportunity to ask questions about the organization, share ideas to be considered for the upcoming year, and will be provided with information on ways to become involved in their organization.No Slidedeck
Got International Transcripts and Diplomas? Navigating University Credentials and Evaluation Resources for China and Latin AmericaInternational student recruitment continues to grow across higher education and admissions staff often face the challenge of interpreting foreign academic records. Where should an admissions counselor begin when presented with an international transcript? This session will offer practical guidance on building an in-house reference library, both digital and print, with resources on diploma verification, institutional accreditation, and free international academic profiles. Participants will then apply these strategies through case studies of the Chinese and Latin American education systems, focusing on common university credentials. The session will conclude with an inside look at how IERF develops equivalency recommendations for these credentials.”Slidedeck
Keynote – Kevin BracyKevin Bracy, AKA Coach Greatness, is a motivational entertainer, executive producer, speaking coach, and the author of “Scared Great: How to Steer Your Fear Towards Greatness,” as well as his youth book, “Greatness Leaves Clues.” Through his story, he encourages those who work in education to keep on and to remember their why.
He infuses the audience with magnetic energy, a great playlist, and deep gratitude for the parts they play in the lives of the young people they encounter.
No Slidedeck
Keynote – Meet and GreetOpportunity to meet Kevin Bracy and puchase a signed book.No Slidedeck
Results AnalyzerNavigating edReports and Results Analyzer – getting the most out of this important tool to create data reports for candidate success, program effectiveness, and accreditation needs.
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FMLA.CFRA, Pregnancy Disability, and Parental Leave: A Practical Guide for EmployersManaging employee leaves can be one of the most complex and challenging areas for employers. This workshop provides a practical overview of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), California Family Rights Act (CFRA), Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL), and parental leave requirements. Participants will learn how these laws intersect, key compliance obligations, and common pitfalls to avoid. The session will also cover best practices for policy development, communication with employees, and documentation strategies to minimize risk and ensure compliance.Slidedeck – same for both sessions
Understanding and Managing Illness Leaves: Education Code, FMLA/CFRA, and Worker’s Compensation

Illness leaves can be complicated, especially when overlapping laws and policies apply. This workshop will provide a practical guide for administrators and HR professionals to navigate the intersection of the Education Code, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), and Workers’ Compensation. Attendees will gain strategies for managing employee leave requests, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, and minimizing disruption to school and district operations. The session will also address common challenges, documentation tips, and best practices for supporting employees while protecting the district.Slidedeck
Maximizing CALPADS Accuracy with Infinite CampusMaximizing CALPADS Accuracy with Infinite Campus – Join us to discover how Infinite Campus can assist your district in validating teacher assignments and course details for CALPADS reporting. We will explore practical strategies to enhance accuracy, identify errors early, and streamline the review process for staff and course data.Slidedeck
Red Rover, Red Rover, send better HR tools right overManaging people across a school district shouldn’t require juggling multiple disconnected systems. In this session, discover how a modern Human Capital Management (HCM) platform designed specifically for K–12 brings it all together. Absence Management, Time Tracking, Hiring and Onboarding, and Professional Development Management all come together in one truly integrated platform. With a single login and seamless data flow between solutions, districts can save time, reduce errors, and gain real-time visibility into their workforce and better support staff and teachers.Slidedeck
Money Matters: A Fun Financial Trivia Challenge to Boost Your Financial IQ!Get ready for a fun and interactive session that transforms financial literacy into an exciting game! In this engaging workshop, you will participate in a friendly competition filled with trivia questions covering a broad spectrum of financial topics—from budgeting and saving to investing and credit scores. Perfect for all knowledge levels, this session not only sharpens your money smarts but also brings out your competitive spirit. Plus, exciting prizes await the top scorers! Join us to empower yourself with essential financial skills, connect with colleagues through fun challenges, and leave with valuable takeaways to support both your personal growth and your students’ financial education.No Slidedeck – Worksheet instead
The Sub Standard?: Raise the Bar on Substitute Recruitment and RetentionThis session will explore proven strategies for building and maintaining a robust substitute teacher workforce through the 3 R’s framework: Recruitment, Retention, and building Relationships with substitutes. Participants will learn effective recruitment techniques that simplify the hiring process and remove barriers for potential substitutes. We will examine retention strategies that value and support substitutes through professional development, competitive compensation, and recognition programs. The presentation will also cover relationship-building approaches that create meaningful connections between substitutes, districts, and school communities. Attendees will discover how to establish sustainable pathways from substitute teaching to permanent teaching positions while ensuring substitutes feel equipped and confident in the classroom through targeted training and ongoing support.Slidedeck
Pathways to the Classroom: Empowering Permit HoldersDiscover how the Permit Holder Series strengthens the teacher pipeline by equipping new and aspiring educators with practical classroom strategies and a clear path to credentialing. This interactive session highlights six core workshops—ranging from positive behavior planning to lesson design and social-emotional learning—along with tailored mentor support that helps districts meet CTC compliance while boosting retention and candidate success.Slidedeck
Impact MentoringThis session explores how mentoring can spark growth, strengthen professional relationships, and create lasting change in schools. Through real stories and practical strategies, participants will discover how intentional guidance builds confidence, fosters resilience, and unlocks potential in colleagues and students alike. Whether you are supporting new educators, guiding staff through challenges, or encouraging the next generation of leaders, you will leave with actionable tools to elevate your impact and inspire those around you.Slidedeck
AI: Don’t Be Scared- Practical Tools for HR & Credentialing StaffCurious about AI but not sure where to start? Join us for a fun, hands-on session where we take the mystery (and the fear!) out of Artificial Intelligence. Together we’ll explore how AI can actually make your work in HR and credentialing easier — from drafting emails to summarizing policies — all while keeping things safe, ethical, and human-centered.

This is not a boring lecture — it’s an interactive workshop with live demos, group activities, and plenty of laughs along the way. You’ll leave with practical tips, fresh ideas, and a new perspective: AI is here to be your assistant, not your replacement.

👉 What to bring: Please download your favorite AI chatbot on your laptop, tablet, or phone before the session (if you don’t have one, we recommend ChatGPT as a great place to start).
Slidedeck + Handout
Navigating Employee Leaves of Absence: Compliance, Compassion, and ClarityThis session isn’t about memorizing the legal details of CFRA, FMLA, or other leave laws. Instead, it’s about taking what you already know about employee leave and learning how to communicate it with compassion and clarity. We’ll explore how to frame your message so employees not only understand their options but also feel supported and valued throughout the process. Together, we’ll discuss what to communicate, how to communicate it, and ways to build stronger connections with employees during what is often a vulnerable and stressful time.Slidedeck
Thrival Skills: Designing an Engagement Pipeline for Certificated SubstitutesDiscover how to keep certificated substitutes engaged and connected through a strong support pipeline. This session highlights onboarding, ongoing professional development, and an annual Continuing Education event. All designed to help substitutes thrive. With practical classroom tips, behavior management strategies, and tech tools, these supports not only boost substitute effectiveness but also build a pathway to future contracted teachers.Slidedeck
From Handshake to Hire: Practical Tools for Recruitment and Credential Analysis to Enhance Efficiency in the Certificated Hiring Process.For school districts, the recruitment race begins on February 1 and runs full speed for six months, targeting every certificated position from special and general education teachers to speech pathologists, administrators, and more. As district analysts, how do we organize, track, and analyze applications from the initial handshake at a local job fair to coordinating interviews, applying for emergency permits, and finalizing hiring contracts? Here are five practical tools to help you cross the finish line fully staffed for next school year!

Planned Interactive Activities:
Share an interactive tracker template that monitors each applicant’s interview progress, credential status, and links emergency permit evaluations.
Slidedeck
Using Google and AI to Maximize Productivity and Time-Saving!We all face challenges in staying productive, but the right technology can make a world of difference. In this session, participants will discover powerful Google tools, apps, extensions, and add-ons—along with AI integrations—that can streamline workflows, save time, and boost efficiency. You’ll learn practical strategies for installing and using these free resources within the Google ecosystem in innovative ways that maximize productivity in both personal and professional settings.Slidedeck
Feedback as a Leadership Practice: The Biological and Psychological factors that block the benefits of feedbackIn our work supporting and credentialing educators, we are often in the position of giving feedback. How we receive feedback is just as critical. This session explores how our ability to receive feedback openly, reflectively, and productively can improve our leadership, strengthen team trust, and elevate our work. Participants will examine their personal feedback habits, identify growth areas, and consider how we can shift giving feedback as well as receiving it.Slidedeck
Navigating Credentialing JourneysThis session is designed to talk through credentialing scenarios that we all face. We will work through scenarios in groups to learn what is taking place in the field. This session is intended for Program SponsorsSlidedeck