Status Codes/Definitions
Educator Misconduct Investigation Process

Status Code Explanations
Definition of Terms

Explanation of a Person's Status Code on the "License Lookup" Page

Note: The "status," if present, appears in red near the top of a person's license record on the License Lookup.

• Under Investigation - A person with at least one valid license is alleged to have engaged in "immoral conduct" or "incompetency," which may result in revocation of that person’s license(s). It refers to the process of gathering information to determine if revocation of a license is necessary. While "Under Investigation," the person's license(s) remains valid, unless it expires.
• Licenses Revoked - All licenses held by the person were taken away due to immoral conduct, incompetency, or delinquent taxes.
• Denied - Application for licensure was denied.
• Hold - The person previously had one or more licenses and was placed under investigation for alleged immoral conduct or incompetency. The person's license expired before the investigation was completed, and the investigation was placed on "hold" as a result.
• Background Review - The person currently does not have a valid license and has made application for a license or renewal of a license. Information that was revealed during the background check process may constitute immoral conduct or incompetency. Further investigation and review is required.
• Driver Ed License Only - Under Investigation - The person possesses a valid Wisconsin Driver Education license and has been accused of engaging in behavior specified in the law that may result in revocation of that Driver Education license – Wis Admin Code §PI 34.33(5)(d). This designation does not affect any other Wisconsin educator license(s) held by the person.
• Driver Ed License Only - Revoked - The person's Driver Education license was revoked for reasons specified in the law that apply only to the revocation of a Driver Education credential - Wis Admin Code §PI.34.33(5)(d). This designation does not affect any other Wisconsin educator license held by the person. Note: The explanation above also applies when a "Revoked" status is displayed on the License Lookup directly on the detailed license information for a Driver Education License rather than at the top of the person's License Lookup screen.

Definition of Terms

• Applicant - Any person who applies for a license, permit or other certificate from the department.
• Licensee – A person holding a license or having the right to renew a license.
• State Superintendent - The superintendent of public instruction for the State of Wisconsin (or his or her designee).
• No Probable Cause (NPC) - A misconduct investigation has taken place and was closed with the finding that, based on the available information, there is no probable cause to pursue revocation of the individual’s Wisconsin educator license.
• Immoral Conduct - Conduct or behavior which is contrary to commonly accepted moral or ethical standards and endangers the health, welfare, safety, or education of any pupil - Wis Admin Code §PI 34.35(1)(c).
• Incompetency – A pattern of inadequate performance of duties or lack of ability, legal qualifications or fitness to discharge required duties, and which endangers the health, welfare, safety or education of any pupil - Wis Admin Code §PI 34.35(1)(d).
• Reinstatement - Restoring the rights, privileges and authority previously revoked.

For questions about this information, contact Courtney B. Spitz (608) 264-9339

Last updated on 7/8/2008 3:00:39 PM