Some Reflections on the Honorable Profession of Teaching

Today, in California, we are at a critical juncture with respect to education. California is predicted to need between 150,000 and 190,000 additional teachers between 1984 and 1991. The state will have to replace up to 75 percent of the teaching force. As many as 77 million Califor­nia students could pass through the classes of these new teachers. The state has an opportunity to ensure that all these children receive the best possible teaching. This paper offers recommendations as to how the state of California could improve the quality of teaching in its schools. We suggest changes in three main areas: certification, professional training, and career structure. These recommendations are discussed extensively in the body of the paper.