More Navy Seals in Schools! Alternate Paths to Teaching Improves Results

by Mike Smith · 2009-10-05 11:44:00 UTC
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Should teachers without traditional education degrees be expected to teach at as a high a standard as traditionally qualified teachers? Many non-traditional teachers are entering the Indianapolis public school system, with the superintendent a big fan, noting the ex-Navy Seal commander who taught science, and did so excellently.

Critics wonder whether non-traditionally schooled teachers can handle special cases, like helping students struggling with reading problems or learning disabilities. Despite these cases, a 2008 study "found that programs such as The New Teacher Project drew smarter teachers and that students benefited." These teachers are more likely to be smarter and pass teaching tests first time.

A few more ex-Navy seals has got to be a good thing for kids' education, but it's up to The New Teacher Project and Teach for America to ensure that these teachers have learned enough. Year-long courses seem the right course, rather than intensive five-week courses.

Photo credit: Chicago2016

Mike Smith is associate editor at Change.org.
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