[nobe-l] Question for anyone familiar with Virginia (or other state) requirements for teaching in ABE programs

[Miranda B.]

Hi,

I have a question for anyone familiar with teaching in Virginia, although
those of you familiar with other states' regulations are welcome to provide
input too. I am planning to transfer in the fall of 2015 from my current
Associates to a Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Studies with cognates in
global studies and teaching English as a second language. While I love
children overall, I do not wish to teach in the K-12 classroom, and would
therefore like to teach adults. I have been encouraged by others to explore
the "Adult Basic Education" option. However, I cannot find the requirements
to teach in this environment. I realize this program is often administered
within the public school system. Here are my questions for anyone with
insight:

1. Does anyone know the requirements to teach in the adult basic education
environment in Virginia?

2. If I don't wish to teach in the K-12 classroom, could someone explain to
me (in non-confusing terms please) the licensing/endorsement requirements to
teach in an adult learning environment such as the adult basic education
programs?

>From what I'm trying to understand through the Virginia Department of
Education website, it looks as though in order to receive the add-on adult
English as a second language endorsement, I first need to obtain the 5-year
license for K-12, even though I don't plan to teach that age group.

If this is the case, and if my chosen Bachelors doesn't include teacher
licensure (I don't want to do the TESL Bachelors, because I want the
additional specialization in global studies), would a Masters in teaching
English as a second language with an adult emphasis satisfy the educational
requirements? If so, can anyone recommend any specific online graduate TESL
programs focused on adult education? I want to do my graduate work online,
as I am already a non-traditional student and I'm hoping to have time for
family and possible employment while completing any graduate coursework.

Any advice, explanations, encouragement, or otherwise would be very helpful.
The more I read, the more confused and frustrated I become.

Thanks, and Happy New Year!

 

--Miranda