Educator Effectiveness

Focus Groups on Educator Licensure and License Renewal in Massachusetts

Over the coming weeks, DESE is partnering with an independent non-profit organization, The Keystone Center, to undertake a state-wide series of focus group discussions on the topic of educator licensure. The goal of these focus groups is to solicit input on fundamental and aspiration questions about the Commonwealth's licensure system, such as:

• What should be the purpose of an educator license?
• What should be required to earn and/or renew an educator license?
• What role, if any, should demonstrated ability play in licensure?
• What role can a license play in elevating the profession and attracting and/or retaining great talent

Input will be sought from professionals with relevant expertise and experience in the field, including: teachers, school administrators, district administrators, school committee members, human resource directors, preparation program faculty and staff, MOEC members, associations supporting educators, and professional support personnel.

Focus groups will occur in several locations across the state during the month of June. To register for a focus group, complete the registration survey. If you have questions or would like to learn more, please contact Leslie Colwell with The Keystone Center: lcolwell@keystone.org or 855-666-8953.