This process looks different for each candidate. Most people start by taking stock: what experiences have you already had that enable you to demonstrate the competencies? Remember to consider other jobs, volunteer roles, hobbies, etc. What are your strengths? Where do you have gaps to fill? How much of the required reading have you done? Organize your thoughts and ideas and share them with your mentor. Focus on how you are actually applying and integrating your knowledge and skill in your work as a religious educator. Refer to the competency grids.

There is no single right way. Many candidates find it helpful to create a timeline to set intermediate checkpoints and deadlines. Some people create a very general portfolio outline of all competencies and gradually fill in the details; some create a spreadsheet; some work more or less from start to finish on one competency at a time. A variety of tools and strategies can be used for keeping track of one’s work. Other religious educators in the program and your mentor are good resources. The Professional Development Programs Manager (PDPM) is your primary go-to person with specific questions about Program requirements.

In the early fall of the final year, Advanced and Leadership Level candidates will receive a Final Year Instructions document that includes a detailed review of requirements along with a calendar of due dates. The Portfolio is due February 1; all other materials are due March 1.