The board currently offers assessments in seven specialty areas, accounting for half the nation's teachers. Mann Middle School teacher Amanda Kelley said a sense of accomplishment will not convince teachers to buy it. Furthermore, another program only creates more red tape, Kelley said. Teachers are so burdened with all the things we have to do. We're just loaded with special paperwork and special needs already.
Pay is always an issue when it comes to assessments.
Sundell knew of several districts in Iowa considering the idea. But, in the current controversy surrounding the state's attempt to revise the certification process, many local teachers argue more requirements only cause long-time educators to leave the profession. And to some extent, Green agrees. That's why we're trying to provide some assistance. In Washington, D.C., Education Secretary Richard Riley told a crowd on Thursday the nation will require 2 million new teachers in the next 10 years.