Minn. House Takes Up Alternative Teacher Licensure

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota House Education Reform Committee takes up what promises to be one of the most contentious education issues of the session, licensing teachers outside the existing process.

The committee hears testimony Thursday morning on a pair of bills that establish new ways for people to become teachers. Proponents say new pathways to the front of the classroom are needed to add diversity in the teaching ranks and to fill in shortages in some areas.

While there's general agreement on making it easier for mid-career professionals to get into the classroom to share their expertise, there's more controversy over easing restrictions on new college graduates who go through training programs like Teach for America.

The committee will consider two bills, one from a Republican and one from a Democrat.

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