Elementary Education License and Pathways to Proficient Reading Course

The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) has introduced two new, closely connected policies for Elementary Education licensure: the Three-Year Entry-Level License in Elementary Education and the Pathways to Proficient Reading (PPR) Licensure course. These policies work together to help educators meet literacy requirements after attempting the required assessment while remaining on track for full licensure.

Three-Year Entry-Level License and Literacy Requirement

The Three-Year Entry-Level License allows educators who are currently or previously admitted to a Mississippi-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP) and formally recommended by the EPP to teach while completing the literacy requirement.

To satisfy the literacy requirement, candidates must first attempt the Foundations of Reading assessment and may meet it in one of two ways:

Option 1:
Pass the Foundations of Reading assessment. Candidates will be eligible for a five-year standard license, provided all other licensure requirements are met.
Option 2:
Attempt the assessment and complete the Pathways to Proficient Reading (PPR) course with a minimum score of 80%. Completion of PPR licensure course during the three-year period allows candidates to convert the Three-Year Entry-Level License to a Standard Five-Year License, provided all other licensure requirements are met.

Pathways to Proficient Reading (PPR) and Eligibility

Please visit Pathways to Proficient Reading – Mississippi Licensure Course for detailed information about the PPR course, including eligibility, enrollment, and expectations.

Important:

The PPR licensure course is not a standalone option—educators must first attempt the Foundations of Reading assessment.
Educators may enroll in PPR only if they:
- Have attempted the Foundations of Reading assessment
- Hold a Three-Year Entry-Level License in Elementary Education
- Are recommended by a Mississippi-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

FAQs

Updated Literacy Requirement for Elementary Education Licensure (Effective October 27, 2025)

What are the new options to meet the reading requirement for Elementary Education licensure?
- Option 1: Earn a passing score on the Foundations of Reading assessment.
- Option 2: Attempt the Foundations of Reading and complete the Pathways to Proficient Reading (PPR) course with a minimum score of 80%.

Is the Pathways to Proficient Reading course required for obtaining an endorsement in Special Education?
- No. Effective October 27, 2025, the literacy requirement for obtaining a Special Education license has been removed. The Pathway to Proficient Reading course is applicable only to those seeking an Elementary Education license.

Can I take the PPR course without passing the Foundations of Reading assessment?
- Yes, but you must attempt the Foundations of Reading assessment.

Does completing the PPR course or passing the test automatically grant licensure?
- No. You must also:
  - Be admitted to an approved Educator Preparation Program.
  - Be formally recommended by your Educator Preparation Provider.
  - Complete all program and state requirements.
  - Submit a full licensure application.

How do I sign up for the AIM Pathways to Proficient Reading course and is there a cost associated?
There are two different registrations methods:
- Option one includes a fee: Mississippi Licensure Course – AIM Institute for Learning & Research
  Option two, with limited availability, does not include a fee: Mississippi – PD Training for Educators and Leaders with AIM Pathways

Where do I register for the Foundations of Reading assessment?
- Visit the Foundations of Reading for Mississippi

Does the AIM Pathway course require proctored assessments?
- No formal proctored exams are required, but you must score at least 80% to meet the licensure requirement.

When will more AIM Pathway courses open for registration?
- Course availability varies. We encourage you to regularly check the website for updates if the current cohort is full.

I completed the MTR program and have a 3-year license. Am I eligible for the PPR course?
- Yes, if you’ve attempted the Foundations of Reading assessment. Contact AIM or MDE for next steps.

How do I submit my certificate of completion for the AIM Pathway course in MECCA?
- You will submit your certificate showing proof of a passing score.