Ivey signs legislation easing path to become a teacher

Addressing the critical teacher shortage in Alabama took a step forward Monday with a new legislation signed by Gov. Kay Ivey.

It will allow those with college degrees in fields other than education to repurpose their education toward obtaining teacher certification. It also reduces the State Board of Education’s requirements for aspiring educators while keeping standards high.

“As Alabama continues to face teacher shortages, particularly in math and science, efforts are being undertaken to fill vacancies in those positions with qualified persons with academic experience outside the teaching profession,” Ivey said.

The legislation came in response to the declining number of teachers produced by colleges in Alabama. According to a 2019 report, 30% of all classrooms are being taught by instructors teaching out of field, having neither a major nor a minor in their subject.

Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover), the bill’s sponsor, highlighted the opportunity as the idea moved through the Legislature.

“Our colleges are producing 20% fewer teachers in the last five years,” she said. “Because we are trying to increase our standards in the state of Alabama, for example, we need 700 experienced math teachers.”

Ivey agreed, saying the action “expands access to high-quality alternative certification pathways for new teachers that comply with rigorous standards, while also maintaining the professionalism and quality of the teaching profession.”

State Superintendent Eric Mackey has said the state has faced teacher shortages for a more extended period than the pandemic. However, thanks to measures such as extending emergency certification and incentive enhancements to the teacher salary matrix, Mackey has indicated a positive trend in most areas of the state.

It also helps that Ivey has delivered a 15% increase in pay to teachers during her tenure as governor.

The Education Department will maintain a database of alternative teacher education preparation organizations. These organizations will be responsible for screening, recruiting, and recommending qualified individuals for certification to teach in public K-12 schools.

To qualify for these alternative programs, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, pass a criminal background check, and complete an alternative teacher preparation program. These programs, available online and in-person, will be rapidly expanded under this law.

For organizations to be recognized by the State Board of Education, they must operate in at least five states without probation, have certified at least 10,000 teachers, and have 10 years of operation. Additionally, candidates must pass an exam aligned with Alabama standards of pedagogy and/or subject area.

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270