The pool of qualified teachers in Alaska is shrinking dramatically. The situation is even more serious in the rural portions of our state. To address this shortage, and to encourage more rural residents to pursue teaching as a profession, I have sponsored HB 271.

This legislation would create an alternative teacher certification program for individuals who have attained their baccalaureate degrees but do not meet the present requirements for certification as teachers. Individuals would be permitted to teach in a rural school if they:

1. Have obtained a baccalaureate degree
2. They are enrolled in an approved certification program.

The legislation contemplates individuals being temporarily certified to teach in rural schools while enrolled in a masters-type teacher certification program. Ideally, the University of Alaska, through its Rural Education Program, would be able to design a program, through distance education and summer programming, would offer participants coursework and support to get participants permanently certified.

HB 271 is designed to address four education issues. First, to address the short-term shortage of teachers in rural areas. Second, to decrease the high turnover rate of rural teachers that has hindered educational services in our rural communities. Third, provide an avenue for local residents to work in the education field while making an income and pursuing a permanent teaching certificate. Fourth, by increasing the available applicant pool of teachers statewide in the long-term.

The Governor's Commission on Rural Governance and Empowerment noted that rural schools are suffering from a lack of teachers, high turnover rates, and a shortage of teachers trained to address the special needs of rural students. It is hoped HB 271 will, in conjunction with the University of Alaska Rural Education Program, serve to address the problems addressed in the Commission Report.

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