Even as there are an increasing number of novice teachers in the ranks of the profession, states’ teacher-induction policies are generally piecemeal, contends a report by the New Teacher Center.
The report is billed as the first comprehensive examination of states’ teacher-induction policies. The Santa Cruz, Calif-based group works to help districts institute induction systems, States were reviewed against 10 standards, which include such factors as how mentors are selected and trained, as well as induction-program delivery.
It notes, for example, that 27 states require some form of induction, yet only 11 require it for two or more years. Twenty-nine states describe who is eligible to serve as a mentor teacher.