Expanding the Pool of Teachers Policy
Idaho limits the usage and providers of its alternate routes.
Idaho's Post-Baccalaureate Route to Teacher Certification and the Alternative Authorization-Content Specialist alternate routes are limited to secondary subject areas. The Alternative Authorization-Content Specialist alternate route is limited to teacher shortage areas.
The Computer-based Alternate Route, implemented through the American Board for the Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE), does not have restrictions on usage.
With the exception of ABCTE, the state only authorizes colleges and universities to offer alternate route programs. Further, the specific requirements are articulated in terms of credit hours, effectively precluding non-higher education providers.
Broaden alternate route usage.
Idaho should reconsider grade-level and secondary subject-area restrictions on its alternate routes. Alternate routes should not be programs of last resort for hard-to-staff subjects, grade levels or geographic areas but rather a way to expand the teacher pipeline throughout the state.
Expand the diversity of alternate route providers.
Idaho is commended for supporting licensure through completion of the ABCTE program. The state should continue to consider policies that encourage additional providers, such as school districts and other nonprofit organizations, to operate programs. A good diversity of providers helps all programs, both university- and non-university-based, to improve.
Idaho recognized the factual accuracy of this analysis.