Credential Information

2026-2027 Academic Year

DRAFT CMS until August 14, 2026.

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Aquaponics Association Endorsement Program

Credential Name	Aquaponics Association Endorsement Program
Credential Vendor Info	Aquaponics Association Molly Stanek 7107 South Yale Avenue, Suite 156 \| Tulsa, OK 24136 director@aquaponicsassociation.org https://aquaponicsassociation.org/vision
Implementation Year	2026-2027
Credential Auto Collect	No
Diploma Endorsement	AL17 = Yes
Validation Artifact	Copy of certificate
Credential Lead Consultant	LCO
Course Code and Title	AL17 Aquaponics II (LCO)
Credential as POL	AL17 POL = Yes
Pathway(s)	Aquaponics (AQPN)^
Cost of Instructor Training	$0.00 Teachers need to complete the certificate training to allow students to take the exam.
Instructor Training Requirements	Required Instructors must complete the certification.
Exam Voucher Expiration	None
Credential Lifespan	Lifetime
Renewal Options	N/A
SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) Code(s)	Agricultural Technicians (19-4012) Conservation Scientists (19-1031) Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers (11-9013) First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers (45-1011) First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers (37-1012)
Articulation	No
Sequencing	Yes The Aquaponics Association endorsement contributes to a sequence of industry-recognized credentials that reflect progressive skill development in sustainable agriculture and controlled environment systems. Students gain foundational knowledge in aquaponics system design, water quality management, and crop/fish production in Level I and build upon those competencies in Level II through advanced system operation, data analysis, and maintenance.
Employer Transferability	Yes
Delivery Format	On-line and Paper/pencil
Proctored Environment Required	No Only by a trained teacher
Proctored Requirements	N/A
Test Site Options and Requirements	None
Testing Environment Requirements	None
Exam Time Allotment	90 minutes
Exam Passing Requirement	The Aquaponics Association endorsement requires students to pass a comprehensive exam comprising five sections, each assessing critical aspects of aquaponics systems. While the specific passing score for each section is not publicly detailed, students must demonstrate proficiency across all areas to achieve certification, including water quality management, fish growth tracking, humane harvesting, and seed starting for plant production.
Retakes	Yes
Student Accommodations	No Districts can reach out to the vendor to inquire about any needs.
Multilingual Resources*	No
Directory Notes	None

The North Carolina Office of Career and Technical Education provides multiple opportunities for students to obtain Industry-Recognized Credentials during their high school career.
Industry-recognized credentials hold immense value as they not only validate student skills and knowledge in a specific field but also serve as a powerful stepping stone toward future careers.

They provide a competitive edge in the job market, making students more attractive to potential employers and increasing their earning potential.

Moreover, industry-recognized credentials often lead to more job opportunities and pathways for advancement, helping students embark on successful and fulfilling career journeys.

Beyond the immediate benefits, these credentials instill a sense of accomplishment and confidence, motivating students to pursue higher education or dive directly into the workforce with the skills and certifications needed to excel.

Ultimately, industry-recognized credentials empower high school students to bridge the gap between education and real-world employment, setting them on a path toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

Access the NCDPI Credentials and Reporting website to submit a credential application and to view the latest Credential Attainment Report.

^ Indicates the pathway is an approved Local Course Option (LCO) pathway.

* Where multilingual exams are indicated, please be advised that the state of North Carolina adheres to general statute as follows:
G.S.§115C-81.45(a) requires classes (silent on exams) to be conducted in English "[e]xcept when a board authorizes teaching in a foreign language to comply with federal law."
Therefore, NC CTE will abide with the Accountability guidance that LEAs are not required to provide exams in other languages. If they choose to do so, it will be at local discretion.