Highlights from the March 3, 2025 Meeting
On March 3, 2025, the Advisory Board on Teacher Education and Licensure (ABTEL) convened in Richmond, Virginia, bringing together stakeholders from across the Commonwealth to advance conversations around educator preparation, licensure, and workforce needs.
Key Presentations and Updates
The meeting began with opening remarks and introductions, followed by an overview of updates from the Virginia Department of Education’s Office for Human Capital:
- National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) Changes: Shawna LeBlond, Director of Apprenticeships, shared forthcoming updates to how NBCT status may impact licensure and career pathways, signaling a commitment to elevating teacher leadership.
- Critical Shortage Report: Dr. Johnelle Torbert, Director of Teacher Education, presented updated data on teacher shortages across endorsement areas and regions, a key tool for shaping recruitment incentives and policy adjustments.
- New Endorsement Programs: Dr. Torbert also highlighted newly proposed education programs at Virginia institutions, designed to expand high-need pathways and strengthen the teacher pipeline.
- iTeach Program Adjustments: Dr. Bryan Jackson outlined initial data from the iTeach alternative licensure route, including enrollment and completion data and survey data.
- Praxis Tests: ETS representative, Malik McKinley, introduced Praxis assessments that are under consideration in Virginia (Library Media, Agriculture, and Theatre), prompting discussion around implications for candidates and preparation programs.
Action Items
Two agenda items were discussed and recommended for approval:
- New Education Endorsement Programs at various higher education institutions, broadening access to specialized areas of licensure.
- The 2025 Critical Shortage Area Report, identifying key areas for strategic staffing efforts across Virginia.
Liaison Reports
No representatives from SCHEV or the Virginia Community College System were in attendance to share updates.
Committee Work
After the general session, standing committees met to review upcoming licensure changes, including a shift to a full ten-year license, and to discuss the implications for policy and implementation timelines.
ABTEL will reconvene on Monday, April 7, 2025. With educator preparation and licensure evolving rapidly in response to workforce needs, ABTEL remains a key advisory body shaping the future of the teaching profession in Virginia.