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WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- An organization that offers an alternative route to teacher accreditation is holding informational sessions in South Carolina.

The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence is meeting with prospective teachers Thursday during a gathering in West Columbia. Another session is scheduled for next week in Irmo, and a third meeting is planned for next month.

South Carolina is one of nine states that allow teachers to be licensed through ABCTE's online program. Teachers making use of the program here can obtain a one-year alternate route certificate, teach for three years, then take a test and later apply for a five-year professional certificate.