Teacher Trainees: Alternative

Abstract

The licensing of teachers is a critical issue in this period of educational reform. Reports critical of American schooling have referred regularly to the bleak condition of education and to the poor quality of teachers educating our youth. The quick-fix solution in many states has been to suggest higher stan dards for teachers and the validation of alternative preparation programs. The approach described in this article focuses on reform efforts in California that call on local school districts to take a major role in the preparation of teachers.