Jana Jones, left, and Sherri Ybarra both urge a cautious approach to a teacher licensing proposal that has drawn fire from the state’s teachers union. Jones, a Democrat, and Ybarra, a Republican, both labeled the issue “complex” and called for a slow, deliberate process to consider the proposal and public reaction. In August, the State Board of Education gave preliminary approval to the new system of certification and licensure. The proposed rule, available to review online, essentially creates two tiers of teacher certification – as well as other subgroups including professional, master and contingent designations. A teacher’s ability to obtain and renew certification would hinge on several factors, including teacher evaluations performed locally; student growth; and the teacher’s ability to meet performance standards. Since May, the Idaho Education Association has opposed tying teacher licenses to local evaluations. Ybarra and Jones took slightly different stances on the proposal/Kevin Richert, IdahoED NEWS. More here.

Question: We haven't talked much about the teacher licensing proposal. Thoughts?