Reddit reviews Cracking the Cset (Professional Test Preparation)

I wasn't intending for this to turn into a giant wall of text, but it kind of got away from me. So... sorry.

I'm starting a SPED credential program in a few weeks, so this process is fairly fresh in my mind. This is all assuming you don't have a credential from another state (I think the process is a bit different). Your BA doesn't really matter (mine's in history) it's just important that you have one. Each university has different requirements, but one thing they ALL have in common is that you will need to take and pass the CBEST and the CSET.

The CBEST is pretty easy, as I'm sure you've learned from your practice test.


The CSET is a different story and definitely requires studying. There is no SPED CSET, so it's recommended that you take the multi-subject, which is actually 3 separate tests (or 4 if you decide to add on the writing test, but it is not necessary). I used the Princeton Review guidebook and passed each one the first try, but I've heard of a lot of people who needed to take it 3 or more times to pass.


You will also probably also be required to get your Certificate of Clearance from the CTC. I think some programs let you do this after you've been admitted, but I'm not sure.

Most universities make it pretty easy to add on your Masters to your credential. AFIK it's not a requirement to get hired in most districts, but it certainly won't hurt you. It also adds a pretty significant pay bump over time. There's a lot of good reasons to get it, and it's pretty easy to add on, so why not?


The rest is really just finding a program that suits you. Some programs allow you to get your credential in 4 quarters, some take 2 years. You could do it all online, aside from your student teaching. A lot of programs will let you do a teaching internship in lieu of student teaching, which allows you to work as a teacher while getting your credential. Keep in mind though that finding an internship position can be hard. My district usually has 1-2 a year and gets flooded with applications.

As for working as a para, I highly recommend it. Again, I can only talk about my district, since that's what I know, but the very few para jobs they have are usually only open to union members. They also frequently hire subs for the year instead of opening up a new position. I've been a sub for the last 3 years and haven't had much trouble finding work. I usually manage to get a long term position for at least half the year (I believe as a substitute teacher you can only be in one classroom for 30 days, or 20 days in a sped class).


As a sub (either para or teacher) you get to work in all kinds of different classrooms and with different age groups, which, if you don't know it already, might help you narrow down which age group you want to work. Working as a substitute para could also help you figure out which type of special ed credential you want to get, if you don't already know. You work in all kinds of different classrooms, and you'll find the kinds of classrooms you like (I was terrified to work BI and I ended up loving it... but middle school+ mod/severe is not a setting I enjoy).

I think it's a great way to get a feel for what your day-to-day in a classroom will be. Depending on the position, you may be dealing with parents to some degree (like, if you end up as a 1:1), and you'll work closely with the teacher so you'll get at least a small understanding of the amount of work that she has to do.

TL;DR: Take the CBEST, the CSET, and get your CTC thing. Find out the rest from the university. And definitely work as an aide, or a sub!