Greetings,

MFT Julie Sabo's Weekly Report for Feb 16th to 20th

What makes a good teacher? How do you assess and prepare prospective teachers? These were the questions at the heart of the discussion in several Education Committees as the House and Senate continued to review the Governor's proposals. The House reviewed the College of Education reforms, the State of Minnesota Mid-Career Alternative Route to Teaching (SMART), and the Math and Science Teacher Academies.
 
Once again, the Governor's proposals rely heavily on testing to achieve accountability and quality assurance. Teachers testified that the Math and Science Teacher Academies were very helpful. They liked the professional learning community model and found it to be complimentary to QComp. Once again, teachers liked collaboration and the Governor liked testing.
 
Rose and Julie met with Representatives Newton, Champion, Wagenius and Slocum and Senators Bonoff, Torres Ray, and Kelash throughout the week to discuss MFT's legislative priorities. They also attended meetings regarding the Governor's education policy proposals with the Department of Education, and a group to discuss potential integration revenue changes.
 
In the coming week the legislature will be assessing the impact of the Federal Stimulus Plan on the budget. It is one-time money; it will help, but not solve the budget problems.