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Coaching Certification Process

5-Step Coaching Certification Process

Thank you for your interest in the coaching certification process at Keene Central School!

In order to become a head coach, assistant coach, or volunteer coach in New York State, there are several requirements that must be fulfilled. All coaching candidates are responsible for completing these requirements, completing the courses and certifications, paying the fees, and reporting their progress.

Initial Coaching Certification (5-Step Process)

1. Fingerprinting

New York State law requires prospective employees of school districts, including volunteer coaches, to undergo a fingerprint-supported criminal history background check conducted by the New York State Education Department's Office of School Personnel Review and Accountability (OSPRA).

This process must be completed before a prospective employee can begin work with the district.
Please see Athletic Director Matt Mills or Cindy Summo in the main office.

2. Create an Account in the NYS TEACH System

You must create an account in the New York State TEACH system.

  • Self-register and create an account
  • Record your certification progress as you complete each requirement
  • Use the system to log in and track progress
  • Use password recovery tools if needed

3. Complete Required Workshops

All coaches, including volunteers, must complete:

  • School Violence Prevention and Intervention (SAVE)
  • Identification and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

These can be completed online.

4. First Aid & CPR/AED Certification

All coaches must maintain current certification in:

  • First Aid
  • CPR/AED

Keep copies of your certification for records.

5. DASA Certification (Dignity for All Students Act)

All coaches must complete DASA training.

This training covers:

  • Bullying, harassment, and discrimination
  • Creating inclusive school environments
  • Proactive strategies for improving school culture
  • Addressing bias, exclusion, and aggression

Next Steps

After completing the 5-step process, contact:

Robert Woughter, Athletic Director
Email: bwoughter@keenecentralschool.org
Phone: 518-576-4555

Professional Coaching Certification Pathway

Before Your 3rd Year (TCL Renewal)

  • Complete all initial certification requirements
  • Earn NFHS Accredited Interscholastic Coach (AIC - Level 1):
    • Fundamentals of Coaching (NYS Specific)
    • First Aid, Health & Safety for Coaches
    • Concussion in Sports
    • One sport-specific course

Before Your 6th Year (Professional Certification)

Complete:

  • All initial requirements
  • NFHS AIC - Level 1
  • NFHS Certified Athletic Coach (CIC - Level 2), including:
    • Creating a Safe and Respectful Environment
    • Strength and Conditioning
    • Teaching and Modeling Behavior
    • Engaging Effectively with Parents
    • Sportsmanship
    • Sports Nutrition
    • Heat Illness Prevention
    • 30-hour internship
    • Verification of 3 years of coaching

Courses Available

All required courses are available online at: www.nfhs.org/learn

 

Group of soccer players around coach