We know producing quality teachers is essential in securing economic vitality and competitiveness. That's why teacher preparation is a top priority at SUNY.
Your editorial assessment of New York's teacher preparation efforts ("Lessons for Educators," July 1) raises many of the same concerns that Chancellor Nancy Zimpher has raised time and again throughout her career. Your statement that her response has been muted, and that she has yet to present alternatives, could not be further from the truth.
The announcement citing innovative teaching programs that you deemed "underwhelming" is not the sum of SUNY's and Chancellor Zimpher's solutions; the news release highlights some of what SUNY is developing or using to help ensure quality teaching.
Chancellor Zimpher has spent her career as a change agent in teacher preparation, working to improve teacher quality. More than ever, we need bold action. And, in partnership with Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Chancellor Zimpher has positioned New York to lead the way.
Under her leadership, SUNY is poised to increase the rigor of admission requirements for all of our teacher preparation programs, which will soon admit only the highest-quality candidates. And, once in the classroom, SUNY's newly launched Master Teacher Program — the first of its kind in the nation — will provide critical ongoing professional development to teachers to ensure students are receiving the education they need.
We disagree with the central methodology of the National Council of Teacher Quality report, but that is not an excuse for inaction. We agree SUNY must do everything in its power to ensure only the best teachers enter the classroom. Our students, our families and our economic future depend on it.
James Malatras, Ph.D.
SUNY Vice Chancellor for Policy and Chief of Staff
Albany
