Who Are We?
Region 4 Inspire Texas is an alternative certification program located in Houston, Texas, and approved by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). We have successfully certified high-quality teachers, counselors, principals, and superintendents across the state of Texas for more than thirty years.
Our Mission
Preparing confident educators who inspire scholars across the state of Texas to reach their full academic, social, and emotional potential.
Inspire the Next Generation—Start Your Certification Journey
Looking to become a certified teacher, principal, counselor, or superintendent in Texas? Inspire Texas at Region 4 offers flexible, TEA-approved certification programs designed to fit your lifestyle—whether online or in person. As part of the largest education service center in Texas, we connect you directly with Region 4 school districts and provide unmatched support from experienced mentors and field supervisors.
You’ll also gain exclusive access to the largest education job fair in the Texas Gulf Coast, giving you a head start on your career. We evaluate prior coursework individually, helping you transition smoothly into your new role.
Start your journey today—apply now and take the first step toward making a lasting impact in Texas classrooms.
Teacher Quality Project
As a leader in educator preparation, Region 4 Inspire Texas is committed to delivering a high-quality, research-based certification experience that equips aspiring teachers to succeed from day one. We go beyond state requirements to ensure our candidates are prepared to change students’ lives. Our online instruction is Quality Matters® certified, and our programs have ranked in the 99th percentile nationally in NCTQ reviews for both elementary and secondary teacher preparation. Candidates complete rigorous admissions steps, pass TExES exams prior to the practicum, and engage in meaningful field experiences with support from vetted mentors and cooperating teachers.
Background Check Policy
All candidates are required to go through a criminal history background check. Region 4 and Inspire Texas reserves the right to disqualify an applicant who has a criminal history record. Per TAC §227.1 (d) The EPP has informed applicants and candidates of the required information regarding criminal history. The applicant will be notified when the report is run, and Inspire Texas receives the results. In addition, the applicant has the right to request their results. Candidates who defer the program and re-enter after six (6) months will go through a new criminal history background check.
Please note: Applicants who have committed and been convicted of a criminal offense, per the Texas Administrative Code §227.1 (d)(1), may be ineligible for certification as a teacher in the State of Texas. Per the Texas Administrative Code §227.1 (d)(1), applicants have the right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the Texas Education Agency to determine if a convicted criminal offense has rendered them ineligible. Full information on this process may be found at: https://tea.texas.gov/texas-educators/investigations/preliminary-criminal-history-evaluation-faqs.
University of St. Thomas Collaboration
The University of St. Thomas and INSPIRE Texas by Region 4 have partnered to offer two advanced degree options for Texas educators: a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and a Master of Education in Counselor Education with a focus on School Counseling. The 30-hour Educational Leadership program leads to the Principal as Instructional Leader certificate through INSPIRE Texas, includes a year-long internship, practical coursework, and support for passing state certification exams. The 48-hour Counselor Education program prepares professional school counselors through seminar-based learning, extensive reading, and a collaborative model that emphasizes mental health, school program development, and hands-on experience.
E-mail admissions@stthom.edu to get receive registration information.
Prior Coursework Training Policy
In accordance with 19 TAC §228.35(a)(5)(A-B), Region 4 Inspire Texas recognizes prior experience and training toward educator certification requirements:
Military Service Members and Veterans may receive credit for verified military service, training, or education that is directly related to the certification they are pursuing (excluding certification exams).
Non-Military Candidates may request to substitute prior or ongoing experience, training, or education—completed within the past five years at an approved preparation program or accredited institution—if it is directly related to the certification being sought and not part of internship, clinical teaching, or practicum requirements.
To request a review, please email r4epsinfo@esc4.net and include your certification area along with relevant documentation (e.g., transcripts, certificates, course descriptions).
To request a review of military service, training, or education hours for transfer, email r4epsinfo@esc4.net with your certification area (Teacher, Principal, or Superintendent) and supporting documentation (e.g., course descriptions, certificates). A program coordinator will review and respond in writing.