Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1092

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/24
• Refer: 2/16/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Requirements for an initial license to teach grades kindergarten to five.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly affect the pool of candidates eligible for teaching in early education and special education. By allowing individuals who have demonstrated their competency through coursework rather than testing, the bill supports a wider range of teaching pathways. Advocates for the bill argue that it will encourage more educators to enter the profession, particularly those who are experienced in practical instruction methods rather than standardized testing environments. This change could lead to a more diversified teaching workforce, essential for addressing varied learning needs in classrooms.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1092 proposes amendments to the requirements for obtaining an initial teaching license for grades kindergarten to five, as well as special education. Currently, teachers must pass a specific exam known as the Foundations of Reading test (FORT) to qualify for these licenses. The bill extends an existing exception that allows some applicants, particularly those completing a course of study in reading instruction, to bypass this testing requirement. This change is aimed at making the licensing process more accessible for prospective teachers who may have alternative qualifications.

Contention

However, the legislation is not without its critics. Opponents believe that waiving the FORT requirement could undermine the quality of reading instruction provided at these foundational education levels. Concerns have been raised that removing standardized testing as a barrier could result in a weakening of essential reading comprehension skills among teachers, ultimately putting students at risk of receiving an inferior educational experience. The debate centers on balancing the need for high standards in teacher preparedness with the desire to increase access to the teaching profession.