State mulls changes to who can teach

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Controversial changes could be coming to Indiana schools — specifically, who can teach in them.

The state board of education could vote on the proposed changes Wednesday.

Among the changes in the Rules for Educator Preparedness and Accountability, educators who teach one subject – like English – could teach something entirely different as long as they pass a written test.

Ena Shelley, Dean of Education at Butler University, said that doesn’t sit well with her.

“If I can pass a paper and pencil test, suddenly I can be your music teacher,” said Shelley.  “I can be your fine arts teacher. I can teach English language learners. I have no preparation or background in that. But I would be licensed to teach. Is that what is best for our children?”

The Indiana Music Educators Association released a statement to 24-Hour News 8 that said it believes the proposed changes would “diminish the preparation and quality of music teachers.”

“Music is an active, skill-based art form, and effective music teachers must be able to make music through singing, playing instruments, conducting, composing, and improvising — skills that cannot be assessed through a written test,” it said.

The Department of Education did make changes to the proposal. After a hearing last summer, it excluded the rule from certain areas – like elementary education and exceptional needs. 

But Pat Rogan, executive associate dean of the IU School of Education at IUPUI, said she’s still concerned.

“We feel like – with a 25-page summary document that was just released with multiple changes – that really it is premature to vote and pass on anything at this point in time,” said Rogan.

Rogan said she hopes the proposal is tabled.

Supporters have reportedly said the changes are meant to give more flexibility to school districts.

As of Tuesday evening, messages seeking comment from the Department of Education hadn’t been returned.