schooldays

Reportedly, the state of Texas is raising some standards for potential teachers who graduate from alternative certification programs (programs that allow people with a degree in a curriculum area to teach without completing teacher education programs in college).

I think this is good news, but what about the requirements for traditional teaching programs?

Regardless of whether one acquires traditional teacher education, or alternative certification, I think the GPA should be closer to 3.0 than 2.5. Although the argument that one’s college grades from years ago shouldn’t’ be held against them, lowering the grade requirements for teachers-or any other professional-isn’t the answer.

Allowing lower grade point averages in order to allow more professionals in the field won’t do much to motivate young people who fail to take their college education seriously. It also won’t do anything to take into consideration those who get low grades in college regardless of their age or how long ago they started.

I hope other states will follow suit with making sure all professional programs continue with strict academic standards.