Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Proposes New Pathways to Educator Licensure

EVERETT — The Healey-Driscoll Administration is proposing a new pathway to educator licensure designed to expand access to the profession and build a more diverse and effective workforce. This new option would allow eligible aspiring educators to waive one of the two tests that comprise the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) by demonstrating related skills and competencies in other ways. The proposal comes from the Mass Leads Act that Governor Maura Healey signed in November 2024. 

“Massachusetts is home to the best teachers in the nation,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By expanding access to entering the teaching profession, whether through a portfolio, educator prep programs or higher education opportunities, we are able to bring in even more talented educators, particularly in some of our highest need schools and districts.” 

“Massachusetts has high standards for teachers, and we know that not everyone demonstrates their knowledge in the same way or comes to the profession with the same experiences,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. “I’m excited that this proposal would offer aspiring educators new pathways into teaching.” 

Today, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education voted to send the proposal (download) out for public comment.  

The Mass Leads Act included language for the development of an alternative licensure pathway that would allow a teacher candidate to waive one of the licensure tests based on possible consideration of certification in another state, completing a portfolio of items, obtaining a relevant master’s degree or doctorate, completing an educator preparation program, or two years of field-based experience.  

“I want to thank Commissioner Martinez and his team, the entire external advisory group and the Board for today’s exciting and important step toward making our teacher workforce even stronger,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “Research shows us students perform better when they have teachers who look like them and understand where they come from. Bolstering a diverse K-12 teacher pipeline is critical to preparing every student for success.” 

“Our goal is to put effective teachers in front of every student,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. “As we work to build a stronger teacher pipeline, this proposal would offer a measure of reasonable flexibility while maintaining high standards.”  

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) convened an internal working group and an external advisory group to advise on the pathway. The Department engaged other stakeholder groups and individuals this spring. Over 200 stakeholders have discussed and provided feedback on the proposal. 

While students of color comprise more than 45 percent of Massachusetts public school enrollment, educators of color make up only 10 percent of the state’s teaching workforce. Expanding entry points to the profession is a critical step toward closing this gap and achieving equity in education.  

This proposal builds on the proposed changes the administration made in February to establish alternative assessments to the MTEL, creating a broader range of pathways for aspiring teachers that will ultimately strengthen and diversify the state’s educator workforce. The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education unanimously voted to make those MTEL alternatives permanent. 

Details on how to submit public comment will be posted on DESE’s public comment page. DESE is accepting public comment on the proposal through January 20.

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