Hi--I was just appointed to a new position managing an educational program that I have never managed before.

Anonymous

September 25,2023 at 5:08PM UTC

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Hi--I was just appointed to a new position managing an educational program that I have never managed before. Our director simply told me to manage it to the best of my ability--as I have managed various vocational programs in my career. A few days into this new role, I was approached by my supervisor and told that our director didn't realize that the position requires a certain certification to be the program manager. They are now expecting me to pass the Praxis exams within the next 2 weeks. When I asked what would happen if I am unable to pass these exams (which I have heard are difficult), they don't have an answer. I can't afford to lose my job!

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AnonymousSeptember 25,2023 at 5:19PM UTC
Unfortunately the management will be on the hook to find someone quickly to take over the project if you cannot pass the certification. I would look into whether or not there is an extension available if you need to take the Praxis a 2nd time. If not, perhaps your manager can bring in someone above you to manage the project while you take the test if you fail the first time.
AnonymousSeptember 25,2023 at 5:38PM UTC
I guess my concern is that I was appointed into a position where I do not meet the minimal qualifications. I feel like this shouldn't be my concern since our director made a hiring mistake.
AnonymousSeptember 25,2023 at 6:19PM UTC
Only that you will no longer be needed if the company is required to have a certified person in your position.
It was an unfortunate oversight on the Director's part but not something that's going away. It's still a requirement that you or your replacement must hold for the job.
I'm so sorry this has happened to you. I hope you pass.
AnonymousSeptember 25,2023 at 7:12PM UTC
She is right that licensing and accreditation boards do not care about being hired by mistake but can make allowances if the person is actively working toward the certificate. A lot of it depends on where they are in their review process and if there have been prior violations. If they aren't actively being reviewed, but this was caught by an internal audit, then they may be able to show some grace if it takes you longer than the two weeks to pass the exam.
AnonymousSeptember 25,2023 at 7:16PM UTC
Only a concern for you if you cannot pass the exam. Then your new position of managing this project is in jeopardy.
AnonymousSeptember 25,2023 at 7:07PM UTC
A lot of places that are looking for someone certified will have in the job description that certification is required within xx months of hire date. Hopefully the company can make this work, so long as she shows progress towards certification.