Almost everyone involved in trying to improve schools agrees that no significant or lasting gains are possible without the commitment of a wellinformed, motivated, and professional teaching force. Reformers are working to change virtually every aspect of the teaching profession, from the recruitment and training of new members-- especially minority candidates who are in alarmingly short supply--to the provision of lifelong continuing education for classroom teachers.
Organizations, foundations, and individuals are concentrating their energies on making teaching a true profession. They are seeking changes in the way teachers are prepared, how they are evaluated and certified, their continuing professional development, and their compensation and working conditions. Reform efforts include payfor-performance plans, career ladders, mentor teaching, alternative certification, peer evaluation, and a variety of professional development networks.
