The Mississippi Licensure Commission convened on January 5, 2024, to address critical updates regarding educator preparation and licensure pathways in the state. The meeting highlighted significant concerns about teacher shortages, particularly in light of increasing retirements and educators leaving the profession. The urgency of these issues was underscored by discussions on the lengthy process required to prepare new teachers, which can take several years.

A key focus of the meeting was the approval of the "I Teach Mississippi" program as an approved educator preparation provider (EPP). This initiative aims to offer a non-traditional pathway to teacher licensure, which is increasingly necessary given the current educational landscape. The commission discussed the establishment of an ad hoc committee tasked with strengthening the preparation and licensure criteria for this program.

The committee, which met on November 29, proposed several recommendations to enhance the program's effectiveness. These included the assignment of a Mississippi-based field supervisor with a valid educator license and a master's degree in education to conduct on-site observations during candidates' year-long teaching residencies. Additionally, the committee recommended that candidates be paired with effective mentor teachers, as determined by specific performance ratings.

Further recommendations included ensuring that the "I Teach Mississippi" program meets the Mississippi State Board of Education's approved standards and that it undergoes annual approval to continue operating. These measures aim to uphold the quality of educator preparation and ensure that new teachers are adequately supported throughout their training.

The meeting concluded with a statement from the Mississippi Association for Colleges for Teacher Education (MACT), emphasizing their commitment to preparing competent educators and transforming professional educator preparation programs in the state. This commitment is crucial as Mississippi seeks to attract and retain a greater number of educators for its K-12 schools.

As the commission moves forward, the implications of these discussions are significant. The approval of the "I Teach Mississippi" program and the proposed enhancements to licensure pathways are steps toward addressing the pressing teacher shortage and improving the quality of education in Mississippi. The ongoing efforts to refine educator preparation standards will be vital in ensuring that the state can effectively meet the educational needs of its students.