James M. Jeffords: “I would like to clarify a point for my colleagues regarding goal No. 4, Teacher Education and Staff Development. The…”

“I would like to clarify a point for my colleagues regarding goal No. 4, Teacher Education and Staff Development. The intent of this goal is to ensure a competent, well-trained education work force. Though focused most directly on classroom teachers, it is also noted in the legislation that other educators are critical to supporting teachers and students and therefore ensuring academic success for everyone. I know my colleague, chairman of the Education, Arts and Humanities Subcommittee shares my concern that the term 'other educators' be properly interpreted to include pupil services personnel, whom we all recognize as providing critical support and interventions in all K-12 classrooms.”