Q: Why doesn't anyone know what's going on?

A: Because we are in the process of switching directors, our new director had absolutely nothing to start with when she came in, Louisiana just changed education requirements, we've been bad with communication before, and we've all gotten very confused and angry.  Just breathe.  We're going to figure it out.  

Q: Do I have to take this class to graduate?

A: Short answer: If it's listed here, yes.  If not, no.
Long answer: Talk things out with Dr. Decuir.  If you have AP credit, tested out of a class, or have taken a class that's really a lot like American history or Intro to Physics, he will probably ask a few questions and then give you credit for the class.  By all means, if you suspect that you might have credit for a class in some way, tell him.  

Q: When do I need to take the PRAXIS?

A: You must have taken PRAXIS 1 before you go out and begin doing field observation.  The school is now recommending that you get it out of the way during your freshman or sophomore year.  If you didn't know about that and have been out in the field, don't freak out, just take it whenever you have time. You need to take PRAXIS 2 before you student teach.  Again, if you didn't know that, don't be scared.  Just take it when you get a chance.

Q: So what is the PRAXIS?

A: The PRAXIS is the test that certifies you to teach in Louisiana and almost every other state in America.  The official website is here. The first part of the PRAXIS is a little like the SAT; it tests your basic math, reading, and writing skills. The second part is education-specific; you'll answer questions about education in general, pedagogy, child psych and development, and music education in particular on the last section.  It can be taken on computer or on paper.  There are four test dates every year to take the written PRAXIS and they can be found at the official site.  The computer dates are by appointment.  Another advantage of the computer version of the PRAXIS is that it generally takes a lot less time.  If you take the written version of PRAXIS 1, you are required to be in the room for all 4 hours.  If you take the computer version, you can leave when you are done.  

Q: How do I go about taking the PRAXIS?

A: You can register to take the test online, on paper through our education department, or by calling a test site.  UNO is the closest computer test site. At UNO, you can schedule the test for almost any weekday during the year (though PRAXIS 1 always starts at 8 in the morning, and PRAXIS 2 in the afternoon).  

Q: Do I have to pay for the PRAXIS?

A: Yes.  PRAXIS 1 is $85.  If you are seriously hurting for money, you can apply to have the fee waived.  It is a good idea to try this, since most of us, as students, are considered poor enough to have the fee waived.  Talk to the ed department about this.  Fees for PRAXIS 2 get a little more complicated and can be found here.  Again, the ed department might be able to waive it.  

Please, ask more questions.  Suggest more answers.  sehays@loyno.edu