The first steps in what could lead to changes in "the preparation and practice of teaching" were discussed by the state Board of Regents at a news conference Monday.
Area educators said the policy changes have some worthwhile aspects but that more information was needed.
At the Albany meeting, state education commissioner David Steiner said in a telephone feed that "this is very much a beginning, but it's an important beginning."
The changes will be made through a request-for-proposal process that could take a year to complete, he said. They could take several years to carry out.
The proposals include supporting the development of new performance-based assessments for teacher certification. The development of new methods to recruit and retain teachers for high-needs schools will allow for new talent to be brought into the field, according to a media release.
"I think these proposals are worth taking a good look at," Mary Ann Luciano, director of the Catskill Area Teachers Center, said. She said she would like to see more details, but that will come in later discussions.
Oneonta City School District Superintendent Michael Shea said this could give schools "the opportunity and flexibility in hiring qualified individuals."
Some of the proposals would increase the pool of candidates in areas where there are teacher shortages, such as special education and foreign languages, he said.
"Hands-on experience is invaluable, but the true test (for an individual) comes in the first couple of years of teaching," Shea said.
The proposals contain some good ideas, Unadilla Valley Central School Superintendent Robert Mackey said. He said he will be waiting to hear more about how the goals will be met.
He added that he would like to see the Regents consider an internship for the profession, similar to what is required for doctors. Student-teaching is a key component in the process, but spending a full year in district would make it a more "meaningful experience."
