We hear stories from the field that the use of long-term subs and these people with interim authorizations is very extensive. Other states have such minimal requirements for licensure that some policymakers argue it means little. Bill Hanlon, a member of the Nevada state board, uses himself as an example in arguing that licensure doesn't ensure competence. Mr. Hanlon, a mathematics and science specialist for the Clark County schools, graduated from college with a degree in math in 1972 and has been licensed in Nevada ever since to teach math, science, and driver education. Until those changes are made, he said, getting upset about teachers who lack licenses misses the point.
Many conservatives agree.
The bill, introduced by a Republican lawmaker and defeated in the Senate, is expected to make a comeback. It would have permitted districts unable to find other qualified applicants to hire people with bachelor's degrees and a major or minor in the field they would teach to work under one-year contracts. In times of shortage and need, other professions don't lower their standards. They attract and recruit more people into the field. Then there's no room for creativity.