As the State of Ohio, Department of Education, moves from granting teaching certificates to licenses, many changes will occur. These changes are evident at the state level, the university level, and the school district level. The changes reflect the need to place teacher preparation, credentialing and professional development more in line with other professional occupations requiring a license. The many drivers of change that impact the preparation of teachers in vocational education include program structures and the delineation of core competencies, career cluster competencies, and specialized occupational competencies.
Emphasis is placed on career-focused education and career pathways.
Tech Prep will expand across the state. As the bar is raised for higher academic standards and achievement for all students, including students in vocational education, teachers will need to provide students with the academic as well as vocational tools they will need to succeed. There have been dramatic shifts in funding patterns and new legislative initiatives that have impacted the preparation of teachers in vocational education. In many cases societal changes as well as funding and legislative issues have been the driving forces for change. Many of the changes that are occurring in teacher preparation and in school districts are in direct response to a changing workforce.