The State Board believes that teacher preparation institutions must be able to assure that their graduates can demonstrate these skills. Induction programs that include mentor teachers and additional training and support would offer needed support for teachers during the first year or two of classroom instruction. Two-thirds of Iowa school districts have no mentoring program for beginning teachers. Experienced teachers need ongoing professional development to maintain excellence. National Board Certification offers veteran teachers the opportunity to review and reinvigorate their teaching skills through a rigorous certification process.
Certified teachers are able to share their best practices with other teachers.
The State Board supports the necessary allocation to honor this commitment but encourages continuing evaluation of this program to determine its effectiveness in improving student achievement. With the predicted shortage of Iowa school principals and superintendents, the State Board supports the need to invest in tomorrow's school leaders. New administrators will need enhanced personnel, financial and curriculum management skills. Iowa must focus resources on recruiting high quality teachers and administrators. Retirements will be numerous.