At a time when schools are facing the most severe staffing challenges in recent memory and with interest in becoming a teacher a fraction of what it was a generation ago, it has never been more important for state policies to support innovative approaches to teacher hiring and retention and remove unnecessary barriers into the profession.
Instead of relying so heavily on standardized tests to predict teaching ability, states can set more meaningful licensure standards focused on demonstrated teaching ability. And because so many states waived testing requirements during the pandemic, leaders have a rare opportunity to demonstrate the real-world benefits of a new approach—following the lead of states already making the shift—without getting stymied by theoretical concerns about lowering teaching standards.
Licensure Tests as Barriers to the Profession
Also In this Issue
Five Trends Shaping the Teaching Force
By Brandon Harrison, Daniel Stuckey, Elizabeth Merrill, Gregory Collins and Richard M. IngersollState policymakers looking to increase recruitment and retention should keep an eye on these long-term trends.
The Uneven Landscape of Teacher Preparation
By Leslie T. FenwickState statutes impede students' equitable access to profession-ready teachers.
A Data-Driven Approach to Staffing Schools
By Hannah Putman and Heather PeskeLowering teacher standards may fail to solve actual pipeline problems and can create new ones.
Licensure Tests as Barriers to the Profession
By Victoria Van CleefStates should explore better means of assessing teachers' classroom readiness.
Teacher Preparation for Whole-Child Design
By Jennifer DePaoli and Ryan SaundersState leaders have a role in ensuring that educator preparation both models and reflects the science of learning and development.
Teacher Recruitment and Retention in Missouri
By Paul KatnikState leaders commit to efforts to attract and keep teachers in the classroom.
Ensuring Equity in Grow-Your-Own Programs
By Conra D. GistState-level criteria for programs' design can yield better outcomes in preparing and retaining diverse teachers.
Creating State Education Systems That Value Student Cultures
By Tanji Reed Marshall and William RodickState boards can set the stage for learning environments that connect and engage all students.
Preparing Pre-K Teachers: Policy Considerations and Strategies
By Amaya Garcia and Cara SklarFour practices to increase the pool of skilled early educators stand out as promising.
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