Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board - St Paul, Minnesota

Introduction

The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) is a state government office responsible for licensing, regulating, and supporting educators in Minnesota. Located at 1021 Bandana Blvd E, Suite 222, in St. Paul, Minnesota, PELSB plays a crucial role in ensuring that educators meet high standards and that students receive quality education.

Main Services

• Licensing and Certification: PELSB issues, renews, and revokes educator licenses and credentials. They also manage the online application and renewal process through their website.
• Educator Preparation and Support: The board works with educator preparation programs, supporting them in maintaining high-quality standards and preparing future educators effectively.
• Discipline and Accountability: PELSB handles investigations into educator misconduct, ensuring the safety and welfare of students. They also manage the complaint process and take disciplinary actions when necessary.
• Policy and Guidance: The board develops and implements policies related to educator licensing and standards, providing guidance to school districts, educators, and the public.
• Data and Reporting: PELSB collects, maintains, and provides data on educator licensing, preparation, and employment. They also publish annual reports and other resources.

Location and Access

PELSB is situated in the Como Park neighborhood of St. Paul, Minnesota. The office is easily accessible by car, with nearby highways including I-94 and I-35E. Public transportation options include the Metro Bus and Light Rail services, with the closest stops being the Como Park/St Anthony Ave and Hamline Ave stations.

Parking is available on-site, with accessible parking spaces reserved for those with disabilities. The building is also wheelchair-accessible, with a ramp leading to the entrance. Once inside, an elevator provides access to the second floor, where PELSB's office is located. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are also available.

Featured Characteristics

• Historic Building: The PELSB office is housed in the former Minnesota Department of Transportation building, a historic art deco structure built in 1938.
• Green Space: The office is located near Como Park, a popular urban park featuring a zoo, conservatory, and golf course, offering a peaceful environment for visitors.
• Nearby Amenities: Nearby, you can find various restaurants, cafes, and shops, such as the Como Park Cafe and the Como Park Regional Park Visitor Center.

Practical Information

• Phone: 651-539-4200
• Mailing Address: 1021 Bandana Blvd E, Suite 222, St Paul, MN 55108, United States
• Website: mn.gov
• Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (closed on state holidays)
• Email: [email protected]

For those seeking to become licensed or certified educators in Minnesota, PELSB offers a wealth of information and resources on their website, including application forms, fee structures, and policy guidance.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 2.9/5 from 14 reviews on Google My Business, PELSB has received both praise and constructive feedback from visitors.

• Professional and Helpful Staff: Several reviewers commend the knowledgeable and friendly staff at PELSB, highlighting their assistance and willingness to help with licensing and certification processes.
• User-Friendly Website: Some reviewers appreciate the ease of use and accessibility of the PELSB website, making it convenient to apply for licenses, renew credentials, and access resources.
• Accessible Location: A few reviewers mention the office's convenient location and accessible parking, making it straightforward to visit the office when necessary.

While there are always areas for improvement, PELSB's positive aspects reflect their commitment to supporting educators and maintaining high standards for Minnesota's educational landscape.

👍 Reviews of Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board

M B.

1/5

Very difficult to work with, but I imagine who your assigned representative is makes a huge difference. Mine seemed to relish the opportunity to drag out the process and be confrontational.

Nicole K.

1/5

Called a couple of times during their extremely limited times that their call line for licnese questions was open. Was on hold for over 10 minutes before a real person answered only to be immediately transfered to a voice mail box before I could even speak. Once again, this was during the limited hours I was told to call to get my questions about my application answered. My question is literally a yes or no question as well, not complicated at all but its like pulling teeth to get ahold of anyone. I have also emailed and received no responses. Maybe leaving a voice-mail is the magic solution but I highly doubt it. Extremely unhelpful organization.

Marcus E.

5/5

I recently went through the steps for obtaining a short-call substitute teaching license. The friendly and helpful staff made the process easy.

Ann M.

1/5

If I could give negative stars, I would. On-going issue for over a year. Received a rude note that I had used "an incredibly out of date form" that is still the first thing that comes up when I Google search to voluntarily remove one of my licenses.

Melissa B.

1/5

I thought I did a short call substitute teacher license back in 2005 and when I had them check, they said “no”. So I had to reach out and find my teacher that I worked with during student teaching (after 19 years)! and have her write a letter of recommendation, plus get my transcript and fingerprints done, and other paperwork that didn’t need to be done. I don’t remember, but I renewed my license in 2021 and the woman who put in my married name in the system spelled it wrong and that’s why no one could find me in the system!! I sent them all my paperwork to get my tier 3 license and a month later, they can’t find the paperwork!?

Basileus

1/5

Some of the least helpful people I've encountered. They seemed so put off to answer any questions which made the process more unpleasant.

Kelsie K.

1/5

Traveled all the way here to talk to someone through a doorbell (during business hours) just to be told to put all my paperwork in a drop box. Not sure why I wasn’t allowed to speak to anyone if they were open. Then a few weeks later was issued the wrong license, even though all required signed paperwork was included.

Kyle S.

4/5

Very helpful and kind on the phone. Their hours are a bit inconvenient though.