APPEL Program

About the Program

The Jordan School District APPEL program is open exclusively to individuals who hold an awarded Associate Educator License (AEL) with the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and are employed in a teaching position within our district.

For those initiating the AEL process, we recommend considering licensure in the following areas:

• Secondary Math and Science
• Career and Technical Education (CTE)
• Special Education (APPEL program is administered by the USBE, not JSD)

Opportunities in Elementary, Early Childhood, English, and History are highly competitive. Prospective candidates are advised to pursue these areas through a university program to enhance their selection prospects.

Routes to Licensure

University Programs

Many Utah colleges and universities offer programs leading to a Master's degree with Professional Educator Licensure. Each institution has different enrollment requirements and may offer specific endorsement areas. Below are links to some available programs:

• University of Utah
• Utah State University
• Westminster College
• Western Governors University

APPEL Program Requirements

• Hold an Associate Educator License awarded by the Utah State Board of Education (USBE)
• Have been offered and accepted a teaching position with Jordan School District
• Not currently enrolled in a university program leading to a Utah Educator License

Steps to Enroll

1. Apply for an Associate Educator License with USBE: Click Here
2. Apply for teaching positions at JSD: Click Here
3. Be hired by JSD and enroll in the APPEL program by attending a New Hire Onboarding appointment
4. Complete all USBE Licensing Requirements

Additional Resources

• SLCC Pedagogy Courses
• SUU Pedagogy Courses
• Download Brochure: Alternate Pathway to Professional Educator License (APPEL)
• More Information

Pros and Cons

University Pathway

• Pros:
  • Receive a Master's Degree with your Professional Educator License
  • May be eligible for a level increase on the salary schedule once the Master's Degree is awarded (see DP309 NEG – Salary Guidelines)
  • Program progress will be recognized and accepted by all Utah school districts
• Cons:
  • Initial cost is higher for a Master's program
  • Acceptance to a college/university is required

APPEL Pathway

• Pros:
  • Initial cost is lower due to fewer credits required for licensure
  • May be eligible for a level increase on the salary schedule for additional credits (average of 20 credits) once the License is awarded (see DP309 NEG – Salary Guidelines)
• Cons:
  • USBE licensure requirements through APPEL may change at any time
  • Program progress may not be recognized by another school district or state, potentially requiring educators to redo requirements for licensure elsewhere
  • Does not lead to a university degree