<p>Specialists in the Assessment of Intellectual Functioning (SAIF) work within the special education system as members of evaluation/placement teams. They are examiners for the identification of intellectual challenge and for the testing component of identification of specific learning disabilities. Assessment Specialists are qualified to perform cognitive and academic assessments as part of the identification of other educational disabilities. They may also perform a variety of services in schools outside the special education system, including cognitive and academic assessments, contributions to child study teams, and consultation.</p> <p><strong>Legislation:</strong> NH RSA 186; Administrative Rules Chapter Ed 507.19</p> <p><strong>Certification Requirements:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Submit application for certification and non-refundable application fee</li> <li>Hold a Master's degree and one of the following:</li> <ul> <li>A valid certification from the New Hampshire Department of Education in education, school counseling, administration, speech-language specialist, or occupational therapy;</li> <li>A valid license as a psychologist from the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice;</li> <li>A valid license as an occupational therapist from the New Hampshire Occupational Therapy Governing Board; or</li> <li>A valid license as a speech-language pathologist from the New Hampshire Speech-Language Pathology Governing Board</li> </ul> <li>Have at least four years of documented school experience in education, school guidance, administration, speech therapy, or occupational therapy</li> <li>Have successfully completed an SAIF program approved by the New Hampshire Department of Education</li> </ul> <p><strong>Examination:</strong> Initial certification requires passing the PRAXIS I pre-professional skills test (PPST) and PRAXIS II, if applicable. The State Board has approved a composite score option for PRAXIS I. Candidates must have an overall score of 518 or higher and a minimum passing score of 172 for Reading; 170 for Writing; and 170 for Mathematics. PRAXIS I and PRAXIS II exemptions are allowed for educators with either a Master's degree or higher, or who have seven or more years of educational experience under a credential issued by another state.</p> <p><strong>Continuing Education:</strong> Staff development totaling 75 clock hours (or alternative to clock hours) in the school district and/or school administrative unit staff development plan during the three-year certification period</p> <p><strong>Fees:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Three-year certificate: $130</li> <li>Three-year renewal: $130</li> <li>Late filing fee: $50</li> </ul> <ul>Exam fees are set by the exam administrator, Educational Testing Service (ETS)</ul> <p><strong>Reciprocity:</strong> This certification is unique to New Hampshire</p> <p>revised Jan 2018</p>
