Teacher Education in Hawai'i: The Story of a Successful Collaboration. PREL Briefing Paper.

Overview & Synopsis

This briefing paper examines Hawaii's collaboration between the Department of Education (ED) and teacher education institutions, explaining that for over 60 years, this relationship has been highly beneficial. The law that began this collaboration mandated the formation of an advisory group, the Teacher Education Coordinating Committee (TECC). The TECC's objectives are to identify, study, take action, or make recommendations on matters of education of common interest to the Department of Education and institutions of higher learning in Hawaii. The common factor in making the system work is adequate teacher preparation leading to local employment in the ED. One key to success is a principal who knows what is needed and can put a plan in place. School districts must be able to identify priority district needs and promote good teacher development. Educational data are collected from various offices within the district and the ED. Information and data are shared with teacher education institutions via the TECC. The TECC makes recommendations as necessary. The TECC often advises the ED on matters of teacher certification. In the 1970's, the ED helped developed a procedure for certificate reciprocity with other states. In the 1990's, the TECC advised institutions to develop alternative programs for certification. Several suggestions for successful collaboration are presented. (SM)