​In Rhode Island, teacher certification renewal requirements are based on the type of certificate held:

1. Initial Certificate (3-year validity):

• Professional Learning Units (PLUs): Educators must complete 30 PLUs annually, totaling 90 PLUs over the three-year period.

2. Professional Certificate (5-year validity):

• PLUs: Educators are required to complete 20 PLUs annually, amounting to 100 PLUs over the five-year period. ​

3. Advanced Certificate (7-year validity):

• PLUs: Educators must complete 20 PLUs annually, totaling 140 PLUs over the seven-year period.

Happy Teacher Professional Development helps Rhode Island educators meet license renewal requirements through affordable, graduate-level courses offered in partnership with accredited universities. 

How many hours are listed on the certificate of completion?

• 1 semester credit = 15 hour certificate (15 PLU’s)
• 2 semester credits = 30 hour certificate (30 PLU’s)
• 3 semester credits = 45 hour certificate (45 PLU’s)

Happy Teacher Professional Development also supports Rhode Island educators on the path to earning a Master’s in Education through our proud partnership with Upper Iowa University. Together, we offer a flexible, career-aligned graduate program for only $10,000!

When registering, be sure to select “Course + Graduate Level Credit.”

Important: Renewal requirements are subject to change. We recommend consulting the Rhode Island Department of Education’s website to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Here are courses popular with Rhode Island educators:

• AI For Educators 
• Effective Classroom Management
• Stress Management
• English Language Learners: Practical Strategies for Educators