The Oklahoma Entry Year Assistance Program was enacted to ensure that Oklahoma children would be educated by teachers of demonstrated ability. Discussed are the overall effectiveness of the program, the perceptions of administrators and educators providing support to new teachers, and implications of problems and concerns raised. (MT)

Although the terms are used interchangeably, alternate and alternative certification programs are different. The assumptions and purposes of each type of program are set forth, and programs in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and California are highlighted. Implications of alternate and alternative certification programs for the teaching profession are…

The increasing number of states requiring periodic renewal of teacher certification has intensified the need for setting standards and systematic review. Because recertification is not accomplished within the context of a program, the criteria used are solely those of the state education agency. Quality assurance mechanisms are needed. (MT)

The Professional Development Degree in Science and Education offered by the University of Nevada Las Vegas provides an optional entry to teacher certification in mathematics or the sciences and is a viable alternative to quick start strategies. (CB)

This article describes the teacher testing requirements that have been mandated by the Texas legislature. Teacher tests which are already in effect or will be required are: a basic skills tests; an initial certification test; an incumbent educators test; a master teacher test; and an alternative certification test. (MT)

Since 2000, North Carolina has offered an alternative route to licensure for adults who desire to move into teaching from other careers. NC TEACH is a statewide alternative teacher preparation program aimed at recruiting, supporting, and retaining highly skilled mid-career professionals who seek to enter the teaching profession through the lateral…

Discusses the future of schools, colleges, and departments of education, identifying possible threats to traditional teacher and administrator preparation and continuing education, offering a list of discussion points for rethinking the future of these programs, and suggesting that these challenges can best be met with a mindset tinged with "a…

West Virginia's "Master Plan for Public Education" calls for a Professional Performance Assessment of student teachers in field-based programs. The challenge is to incorporate the assessments in the least intrusive manner. While there is skepticism, some cooperating teachers hope the screening will result in better-prepared student…

The relationships of specific NTE tests to the teacher education curriculum in Louisiana are described. (JD)

The Florida legislature recently mandated several testing programs to improve the quality of teacher education entrants, students, and graduates. These requirements and their impact on teacher education in Florida are discussed. (MT)

Ways of attempting to ensure competence in teaching reading have changed dramatically over the past 60 years. By comparing tests designed to be administered to 1923 and 1983 teacher candidates, this article illustrates the ways in which they are qualitatively different and considers the implications of those differences. (MT)

Teacher certification procedures in the Pacific Northwest are used to illustrate the kinds of problems facing the nation in terms of teacher certification and program accreditation. Proposals for change include: cooperation between public schools and universities; five year programs; and use of research to study the teacher education process. (DF)

The 'back-to-basics' movement has concerned many art educators. Recent legislation in Florida has ensured fine art programs in the elementary and secondary school years and strengthened the art teacher certification requirements. (DF)

Discusses the foundation and growth of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, examining its benefits and requirements and how these standards may affect the continuum of teacher education programs, particularly with regard to aligning the programs to five propositions. Current studies advocating changes in master's programs are…

The history of teacher certification is summarized. Deregulation of teacher certification has brought many changes, making it difficult to identify who or what agency is in charge of selecting and preparing new recruits for teaching. Different ways of certifying teachers are discussed. (MT)