We have been tracking the concerns with edTPA across the country as Texas continues to move towards implementing edTPA for all teachers.\u00a0 Last week Georgia voted to eliminate the edTPA, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution.<\/p>\n
\nThe Georgia Professional Standards Commission removes edTPA assessment as a requirement for certification.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Here is a long excerpt from the Standards Commission:\u00a0 “On Thursday,\u00a0 the Georgia Professional Standards Commission voted to remove the edTPA assessment as a requirement for the certification of educators in Georgia, making it easier and less costly for teachers to get certified in the state.<\/i><\/p>\n
“Educators across Georgia have adapted in these uncertain times to continue providing quality education to our students,” said Gov, Brian Kemp. “As we continue to navigate the changing landscape of education in Georgia, we need good teachers who are passionate about educating the next generation now more than ever. Loosening these restrictions makes it easier and more accessible for all who want to pursue that mission, and I am grateful to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission for their work on this issue.\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n
In addition to removing the edTPA as a requirement, the GaPSC also recently removed the second of two required ethics assessments. The removal of these two assessments cuts the assessment certification cost for Georgia teachers by nearly half, easing barriers for many in the midst of the fight with COVID-19.<\/i><\/p>\n
\u201cThe Commission\u2019s streamlining efforts, while still ensuring effective educators, are critically important and collaborative work,” said Brian Sirmans, GaPSC Chairman and Lanier County educator. “Our shared goal is to make a positive impact on all students, schools, communities, and the teaching profession.\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n
\u201cCOVID-19 has caused all in education to find solutions to urgent issues, remain flexible, and explore innovations. Part of this responsive process is examining all policies, focusing on streamlining the journey to become a Georgia educator,\u201d said Matt Arthur, GaPSC\u2019s Executive Secretary. “Although we have gained much from edTPA, part of our simplification efforts resulted in a reduction in the number of certification assessments required, of which edTPA is one.\u201d<\/i><\/p>\n
To read memos regarding the removal of edTPA as a requirement, click\u00a0here<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0here<\/a>. More information on the Commission’s efforts to streamline in response to COVID-19 is available on their\u00a0website<\/a>.<\/p>\n