Pro-Excel worth another look
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he teacher shortage continues to be a problem in Utah. Whether it's pay, discouragement or burnout, we can't keep enough teachers in Utah classrooms.
Last year legislators unveiled Pro-Excel, a package that addressed compensation, mentoring, leadership and training. It moved through the Legislature's education committee and passed the House. Then, unfortunately, the $50 million-plus bill died.
Utahns just voted overwhelmingly to keep private schools from receiving any public funds. That shows a mandate for public education. We hope that mandate extends far enough so public education gets the funds necessary to attract, train and retain high-quality public school teachers.
Fortunately, Rep. Ronda Menlove, R-Garland, a supporter of Pro-Excel, plans to give the program another try in the Legislature. There are some new aspects to Pro-Excel, including:
* Licensure: One goal the bill's sponsors have is to study how to bring back some of the 28,000 or so teachers whose licenses have lapsed. Ideas, according to Menlove, include getting principals more active in recruiting efforts and easing state board rules to make it easier for qualified teachers to return.
* Recruitment/retention: The goal is to change perceptions about teaching. Suggestions from Menlove range from positive publicity, more financial incentives and mentoring.
* Quality: Menlove cites the need for more emphasis on professional development, class size and career advancement. Teacher unity and support will be stressed. Menlove said this type of added support is crucial in tough classes, such as special ed.
It will be difficult to get a $50 million public-teacher-improvement bill through the Legislature, particularly after the hard feelings generated in the school voucher fight. But we hope Pro-Excel gets the chance to be voted on in both chambers. Utah needs to have the best teachers it can instructing our students.
A motivated teacher is a key component to excellence. Right now not enough teachers are motivated to stay here. Pro-Excel may have some answers when it comes to keeping them in Utah, in the classroom, motivated and teaching to their highest potential.
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