ESL & Bilingual Credential

ECE Credentials

The Gateways ESL & Bilingual Credential is an add-on to the ECE Credential. It is for early care and education professionals who have formal college education, training, and experience with multilingual/multicultural children and families, either in the form of supervised observation/experience or direct work experience.  

To start a Gateways Credential application, there are 3 steps:

  1. Log into your Gateways Registry here - registry.ilgateways.com/login. A paper application is also available, click here.
  2. Select Gateways Credentials in the "Apply" section. Click the "Apply Now" button to create a new application.
  3. Please request all official transcripts (if not on file) to be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or mailed to: 

INCCRRA
1226 Towanda Ave
Bloomington, IL 61701

Click here for the  pdf work experience form (137 KB) .

Optional: If you have a valid CDA, please email a copy to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

To Renew your Gateways Credentials, click here.

Excelerate Program

ExceleRate Illinois helps you prepare children for success in school and in life.

It also provides standards, guidelines, resources and supports to help you make sensible changes that lead to better quality outcomes for children.