Ed Board To Seek Skills Testing

The state Board of Education is considering changes in the teaching profession that could better prepare educators for their jobs.

At a meeting here Thursday, the board agreed to ask the Legislature for the authority to test prospective teachers’ basic skills. It would be the first time teachers in this state would have to undergo a uniform assessment.

Also, the board agreed to continue its work on a series of changes proposed for teacher education that would include training time similar to a residency program for new physicians,

The board will consider both issues again at its meeting in November.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Judith Billings said the board is trying to better prepare educators to teach the new basic skills required under the Legislature’s school reforms.

“I am more encouraged now by what I’ve seen in the last four years than I have ever been in education, in that it’s real change, not just fluff and facade,” she said.