This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Most teaching degrees in Utah require a major and minor plus teaching methods courses. Then add unpaid student teaching and license requirements, which can result in a five-year program. Now our State Board of Education says all this work is not needed — graduates in any area can become teachers. The board should reimburse every recently graduated (within the past 10 years) active, certified teacher about $5,000-$6,000 for the extra college credits required by the state to receive certification. This money would help to pay off student loans or serve as a bonus for those whose college debt may be paid.
For the State Board of Education to allow unlicensed individuals to teach follows the same thinking as hiring the former state superintendent who was the most anti-teacher superintendent in the history of Utah education. Because of his business rather than education background, he knew little about education, teaching or students. Apparently the current state board is still following his example of anti-teacher climate.
One last note — teachers, grow a backbone. Do not mentor or help any nonlicensed teaching recruit unless you are well-compensated for your efforts — it may be your job/career they will eventually be replacing.
Randall Clark
Heber City