Expanding the Pool of Teachers Policy
Although Utah does not limit the usage of its alternate route programs, it does place restrictions on providers.
The state-run Alternative Routes to Licensure (ARL) is commended for having no restrictions on the usage of its alternate route programs with regard to subject, grade or geographic areas.
However, American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) candidates are only authorized to teach biology, chemistry, elementary education, English/language arts, mathematics, physics and science.
With the exception of ABCTE, Utah only allows institutions of higher education to offer alternate route programs. Further, the specific requirements are articulated in terms of credit hours, effectively precluding non-higher education providers.
Further expand the diversity of alternate route providers.
Utah 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.
Utah recognized the factual accuracy of this analysis.