Statement from State School Superintendent Richard Woods on GaPSC’s proposal to eliminate edTPA as Georgia certification requirement
Woods: "For those who have the calling to teach, we must seek out ways to help them answer that calling -- not put barriers in their way."

May 4, 2020 – “Late last week, the Georgia Professional Standards Commission posted for public comment a rule that would eliminate the edTPA assessment as a requirement for teacher certification in Georgia. I commend the PSC on this common-sense decision, which is in the best interest of teachers and students in our state.

Now more than ever, we should be removing barriers that make it harder for qualified individuals to join the teaching profession. The COVID-19 crisis has made clearer what many of us already knew: measuring a teacher's preparation and skill is more complicated than a high-stakes assessment tool can capture.

The edTPA assessment served a purpose, but it has become clear over time that it caused unintended barriers and burdens for teachers entering the profession. Its removal as a requirement for teacher certification will help us strengthen the pipeline of passionate, qualified K-12 teachers.

For those who have the calling to teach, we must seek out ways to help them answer that calling – not put barriers in their way. I commend the PSC on their decision and I strongly support full adoption after the public comment period."