MichiganRadio

Program Fast-Tracks Teacher Certification ANN ARBOR, MI (Michigan Radio) - State lawmakers passed new, rigorous high school graduation requirements several years ago. Now, the Michigan Department of Education says it needs to get more qualified teachers into classrooms to teach the tougher curriculum, especially in subjects like math and science.

That's where the proposed Michigan Nontraditional Routes to Teacher Certification program comes in.

John Austin is vice president of the state Board of Education. He says the program is for those who already have a bachelor's degree and work in a math or science field, but want to change careers and go into teaching.

"You still have to spend time in the classroom, you still have to learn pedagogy, you still have to know your content."

Those opposed to the proposal say there's no evidence that the state has a shortage of qualified math and science teachers. © Copyright 2012, Michigan Radio