Shalala Introduces Legislation to Reform and Improve Teacher Training
Press Release
U.S. Rep. Donna Shalala (FL-27) introduced the House version of the Educator Preparation Reform Act, a bill that would improve accountability and transparency for teacher, librarian, and principal preparation programs, as well as reform teaching grants to ensure educators get the funding they need.
Specifically, the legislation requires reporting on teacher programs that are related to success in the classroom, such as admission standards, clinical preparation requirements, and outcome measures such as placement, retention, and performance.
"As a long time educator, I am proud to introduce a bill that will support our teachers and students during this difficult time," said Rep. Shalala. "Education is the backbone of our nation, and high-quality public education should be a right, not a privilege. This legislation will provide educators with the resources and flexibility they need to teach students at their full potential."
The original Senate version was introduced by Sens. Reed and Coons. The Educator Preparation Reform Act would make improvements to the Teacher Quality Partnership Grants in Title II of the Higher Education Act by including administrators, as well as giving local school districts more autonomy to meet their specific instructional needs. Additionally, it will reform TEACH grants by refocusing eligibility among students in the latter half of their preparation at the undergraduate level or those enrolled in graduate programs."
By allowing partnership grants to assist in developing other educators, such as school librarians, literacy specialists, and school counselors, funding will be allocated when most needed by the school district. This bill recognizes that united teacher and principal preparation, as well as partnerships with other academic support professionals, will improve conditions at struggling schools.
To see the full text of The Educator Preparation Reform Act, please click here.
For a summary of the provisions, please click here.
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