Self-managed Credential File

What is a self-managed credential file?
A self-managed teacher credential file consists of student teaching evaluation(s), college supervisor’s evaluation from each student teaching experience and signed letters of recommendation that are collected, maintained, administered and sent by you directly to prospective employers.

What documents make up a self-managed teacher credential file?

• 3-5 letters of recommendation
• Student teaching evaluation(s)
• College supervisor’s evaluation for each student teaching experience

* When a posting asks for a transcript, send an official transcript obtained through the Registrar’s Office.

• Principal/Assistant Principal &
• Teachers that observed you teaching &
• Current or former employer &
• Subject area faculty &
• Volunteer/community affiliation supervisor &
• Coach

Select a person who you think could write a positive letter of recommendation for you and ask that person in person for the letter. Do not slide the request under an office door, leave it in a mailbox, or stop the person in the hallway. Find time to meet with the person to discuss your request for a letter of recommendation. To assist the letter writer, you can include the this completed form with your request.

You will need to tell the letter writer how you would like to receive this letter. Do you want it mailed to you? Emailed to you as an attached pdf document? Follow up with a thank you note to the writers of your letters. These letters take time, thought, and effort. Let the writer know of your appreciation. Also send a note when your plans have been finalized and your job/school search is complete.

How do I set up my credential file?
To electronically send your credentials you will need to scan your documents and may maintain them on your own computer or flash drive. Be sure to back up these documents.

As an alternative to self-managed credentials, the Office of Career Services has partnered with the credentials management service, Interfolio, Inc., to offer you an efficient and effective way to manage your credential file at an affordable cost. Twenty-four hour online access is offered to all participants. Interfolio offers complete management of your records including uploading your letters of recommendation and transcript which can be submitted on-line or via mail. Visit http://www.interfolio.com/ for more information.

How and when do school systems receive my self-managed credential file?
You, as the applicant, are responsible for supplying your credentials when requested by the employer or when completing your teaching application. In some instances, employers do not request credentials until they have completed their initial screening process; in other instances, you will need to send your completed file as soon as possible to a particular email or US mailing address. When an employer indicates a preference, follow their directions. If you send it by email, you must follow-up to make sure Human Resources received the packet.

Can Career Services staff assist me with questions I might have about self-managed credential files or the education job search?

Absolutely! We want you to be successful in your job search.

The Office of Career Services offers Jobs Online, our online employment system, to students/alumni at no cost. All position/job openings that we know about are posted in this system. This is a password protected site. You can subscribe online. Subscriptions are only used to update you on the password change.

We would be happy to meet with you individually to answer any questions you may have about self-managed credentials, resumes, cover letters, job search strategies or career information. Call 616-395-7950 to set up an appointment.