Individuals applying for positions in Pennsylvania public and private schools must obtain the following clearances:
Federal Criminal History Background Check
Pennsylvania Criminal Record Check
Pennsylvania Child Abuse History
Information on applying for these clearances may be found by selecting their link.
In addition to criminal background checks, applicants are required to complete the following forms:
Arrest & Conviction Form (PDE 6004)
Act 168 Employment History Disclosure Form
Applicants must complete the Act 168 Employment History Disclosure Form for their current employer and must also complete one form for each of the applicant’s former employers that were school entities or where the applicant was employed in a position having direct contact with children. Therefore, the applicant may have to complete more than one form.
Applicants are also responsible for obtaining a pre-employment Physical Examination and TB test from their medical provider.
Clearances and the physical examination cannot be dated more than one year prior to hire date. The TB test cannot be dated more than 3 months prior to hire date.
To qualify for classroom teaching positions, applicants must hold a valid Pennsylvania Special Education Teaching Certificate.
Check your current certification application status and Act 48 hours at the Teacher Information Management System (TIMS) through the Pennsylvania Department of Education site, https://www.education.pa.gov/Educators/Certification/Application/Pages/default.aspx