|
|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
|
CONTACT: Bill
Thomas |
State Rep. Scott
Conklin |
|
|
|
|
|
|
House passes Conklin measure to expand educational leadership
Lawmaker says bill would strengthen school administrators’ qualifications
HARRISBURG, June 30 – As the General Assembly and governor continue to negotiate a state budget for the upcoming fiscal year, members of the state House of Representatives are moving forward with adopting measures to improve Pennsylvania’s education system.
A bill introduced and sponsored by Centre County state Rep. Scott Conklin, which is part of the Democrats’ education package, unanimously passed the House today and was sent to the Senate for consideration. Conklin’s proposal (H.B. 847) would strengthen professional requirements for certain school administrators and further professional development.
“It is essential that we make sure all school administrators, including school superintendents and principals, have the necessary skills and opportunities to help all students achieve,” Conklin said. “Through continued professional development and encouraging continued education of our school leaders, we can better invest our resources in our students and build a brighter future for this Commonwealth.”
Specifically, the legislation would add to the existing qualifications for certain administrators by requiring prospective superintendents and assistant superintendents to complete a college or university graduate program in education, rather than the current requirement of completing just a college or university course.
Also, Conklin said the measure would require applicants who apply to become a principal or assistant principal after Jan. 1, 2008, to be issued an Administrative I certificate that would be good for only five years. People holding Administrative I certificates would receive an Administrative II certificate once they complete three years of satisfactory service and have successfully completed a professional development program approved by the state.
“By requiring our administrators to seek additional training and education, we would set an example for all of those who are part of the educational process,” Conklin said. “In order to sustain a quality and effective school system, educational leaders should always be seeking ways to continue their education. They should never be settled with simply knowing what they already know.”
Conklin said the House Education Committee held public hearings across the state on his legislation to ensure full public input and consideration. The feedback received was overwhelmingly supportive, he said.
“This is a positive measure that would have positive results for our students across Pennsylvania,” Conklin said. “I hope the Senate approves the measure as well and passes it along to the governor’s desk for his signature.”
###wt/2007/agh l:\print\releases\school_admin.077