Credential vs. Certification - District Use

While working on Leadership Development Portal with Holdsworth districts the distinction between Credential and Certification is a bit confusing.

For districts in TX, 

• Credentials- these are achievements, educational levels, or aspects related to specific skills an individual possesses.

• Certifications- refers to educational licenses or certificates an individual has (i.e., teaching specific subject/level or administrative). SBEC in Texas usually grants them.

For instance, a teacher can get a certification to teach English (ELA 6-12) and get a credential (or endorsement) to teach ESL (English as a Second Language) that does not have an official certification. Other “credentials” that are not given by the State could include required professional development hours (30 documented hours per year, for instance), or local credentials that may be related to non-teaching assignments (some of these may be covered by stipends, such as coaching, others may be related to skills specific to the district or school). 

Can reach out to other districts for example if needed.