Professional Development Framework Proposes Reform

Significant changes to the Illinois professional development system were adopted by the Illinois State Board of Education in November and are currently undergoing what is anticipated to be final revisions before being submitted to the Illinois legislature. The proposal is titled, "The Illinois Framework for Restructuring the Recruitment, Preparation, Licensure and Continuing Development of Teachers." (Also referred to as the Professional Development Framework.)

The Professional Development Framework calls for a comprehensive restructuring in the professional development of teachers. While it is intended to give direction, it is not a prescription for change. Restructuring will impact every current and future teacher in the state with changes in certification, teacher education and standards for continuing development. The plan calls for changes to be implemented during the next five years until they are completely in place. Although the plan provides a context for change, it deliberately does not provide the specifics of the new system, emphasizing, "Those details must be worked out through much more discussion among educators and other interested parties."

The plan addresses eight priority areas: Professional Standards, Teacher Preparation Programs, Assessment,

State Licensure Systems, Continuing Professional Development, New Teacher Induction Program, School Cultures, and Recruitment (see the article on page 3).

Acknowledging the need for change, the plan begins by stating, "...Criticisms of current practice cannot be signficantly addressed through minor adjustments. In Illinois, as in the nation, if we are to assure the presence of excellent teachers for all children, we need a comprehensive restructuring of the State's system for teacher preparation, certification and continuing professional development."

An important note emphasizes, "The standards for Illinois teachers must reflect the standards which are adopted for Illinois students. This will include both the academic and occupational standards now under development." Final recommendations and implementation details of the plan will be arrived at through much more discussion among educators and others.

Teachers and administrators who would.like to review a copy of the Professional Development Pramework can call Anna Austin at the ISBE's Chicago Office: 312/8142708, or write her at ISBE, 100 W. Randolph, Suite 14300, Chicago, IL 60601.

Recharge Your Batteries at the Annual Math and Science Day Conference

The sixth annual Math and Science Conference for K-8 teachers is coming April 11. Every math and science teacher will benefit from the exciting ideas and presentations at the conference and come away recharged and invigorated. This is also an opportunity to gather with other math and science teachers in the area. As always, the conference will highlight best practices in mathematics and science instruction. The all-day session begins at 8:00 AM with registration and ends at 3:00 PM. A $55 per person fee includes all materials and lunch. The Math and Science Day Conference will be held at Concordia University, River Forest, Illinois. For further information, please contact Douglas Dirks or Gerry Zeller at West 40: 708/447-6070.