5. Clarification: Data on In-Field and Out-of-Field Educators:
The Department has clarified information in the On the Desktop message regarding “Data on In-Field and Out-of-Field Educators”. Please review the updated memo from Commissioner Riley.
Due to concerns from the field, DESE has clarified the language in the memo regarding legacy licenses. The Department is not eliminating active and valid legacy licenses. The intent is to signal that the shifts made as a result of the in-field/out-of-field policy will impact all educator licenses, and for licenses that we no longer issue (e.g. legacy licenses), we are providing a two-year implementation period. For example: An Elementary K-8 legacy license holder who was previously covered to teach a course such as physical education or music will be designated out-of-field beginning in January 2022.
The Department will soon post a Frequently Asked Questions document that will cover the questions received since the release of the in-field data. Please direct any questions to: EducatorDevelopment@doe.mass.edu.
|
|
6. 2020 Future Teacher Signing Day:
In conjunction with the statewide Teach Mass public awareness campaign, DESE is encouraging districts to consider hosting a Future Teacher Signing Day. Much like when a student athlete commits to play a sport at a specific college, a Future Teacher Signing Day recognizes the graduating seniors who are choosing to pursue a career in education. Hosting such an event acknowledges that teaching is a valuable career worthy of celebration and may help inspire others to become educators.
While districts may hold an event whenever it suits them, DESE encourages officials to consider doing so during Teacher Appreciation Week, which runs from Sunday, May 3 through Saturday, May 9 this year. Schools and districts that plan to host a Future Teacher Signing Day are asked to please contact Brian Devine, director of educator licensure, at bdevine@doe.mass.edu and include the date, time and location of the event.
|
|
7. High School Voter Registration and Pre-Registration Grant:
The Department is pleased to announce the High School Voter Registration and Pre-Registration Grant (fund code 575) to promote civic engagement of high school students through initiatives that encourage them to register or pre-register to vote. The maximum award size will depend on how many high schools will be served. Schools that serve students of voting age are also encouraged to download and share this Voting Infographic with students and families. The grant will last until June 30, 2020, with an opportunity to extend it to November 30, 2020. Complete proposals are due by 5:00 p.m. Friday, March 6. Please email Cece Spencer at Cecelia.Spencer@doe.mass.edu with any questions.
|
|
|
|