Some lawmakers in the Missouri House voted to reduce the hoops teachers must jump through in order to get certification.
The House gave first round approval to a bill that grants teachers certification good for the rest of their lives. The new process elimates the need for renewal every 10 years.
Proponents of the bill, such as Representative Brian Baker, say it will allow beginning teachers to focus on instruction instead of reacting to the pressure of keeping on top of their certification requirements.
Opponents of the bill say it could make teachers lackadaisical in their pursuit of continuing higher education.
In Jefferson City, Megan Murphy, for Missouri Capitol Caucus
Some Missouri lawmakers say the bill will reduce pressure on beginning teachers. The bill would give them certification for life after a four year mentoring period.
The bill's sponsor - Representative Danielle Moore, says the new certification process will make the profession more desirable to young teachers.
Opponents of the bill say the comfort of lifetime certification may make teachers less driven to continue their education.
In Jefferson City, Megan Murphy, KMOX News
The House gave first round approval to a bill that grants Missouri teachers lifetime certification after a four year mentoring period.
Democratic Representative Rick Johnson opposed parts of the bill that would remove the option to obtain a higher certificate of learning.
Proponents of the bill say it will alleviate some of the pressure on newcomers and will allow them to focus on teaching.
In Jefferson City, Megan Murphy, KMOX News
The bill would allow teachers to be certified for life after four years of mentoring and contact with other professionals.
Opponents of the bill say the new process removes the option to receive a higher level of certification if teachers want more education. Representative Rick Johnson
Supporters of the bill say the new process will relieve some of the stress felt by new teachers. They say newcomers no longer have to worry about immediately entering a graduate program when they begin teaching, and can focus more on instructing.
In Jefferson City, Megan Murphy, for Missouri Capital Caucus.