The Battle of Richmond. Politics and Teacher Certification Make Strange Bedfellows.

Overview & Synopsis

A political struggle has developed in Virginia between its state superintendent of public instruction and the educational community. The primary disagreement is in the area of teacher certification, although admission requirements to teacher education programs are also disputed. The Teacher Education Advisory Committee (TEAC), composed of representatives from the education profession, parent/teacher groups, and school administrators, is responsible for advising the state board of education on policies related to teacher education, training, and certification. While the board of education is legally the responsible authority in Virginia, the state superintendent has placed the board in the unprecedented position of choosing between the recommendations of TEAC and those of the superintendent on teacher certification standards. The TEAC proposal, supported by education professionals, requires the graduate's completion of a state-approved education program, either in conjunction with or subsequent to the baccalaureate degree, before receiving a two-year probationary certificate. The superintendent proposes the alternate route of allowing certification of individuals holding a liberal arts degree from an accredited institution. These graduates must meet one or more endorsement requirements for secondary education and be recommended by the employing educational agency. The superintendent's proposal would allow any college graduate the same status as graduates of approved teacher education programs, a two-year probationary certificate. It is the contention of educators that the superintendent's proposal reflects political expediency rather than concern for high quality of education for teachers and children. The board of education votes in December 1981 on the certification issue. (JD)