Public Education in Illinois 09/02/2011

Went down to the Illinois Regional Office of Education with a teaching certificate that had not been renewed since 1973.

“I’ve got this certificate that has not been renewed since 1973.  What do I have to do to get this up to date so I can teach in the public schools in Illinois?”

With some difficulty the lady found my record in the State of Illinois teacher database.  “It looks like it will take $148 to get this up to date.”

“Well that’s not too bad.  What do I have to do to teach?”

“Nothing.  Just write the check.  And, oh… You have to take six hours of college classes within the next year.  You can start right now, but you need to take those classes before next year.”

“Do you have a list of qualified classes that I need?”

“Everything is qualified.  It doesn’t matter what you take.  Do you have a hobby or something?  You could take classes on that.”

“I’m sorry ma’am, but I have forgotten everything about my subject matter and teaching methods over the last 40 years.  Don’t I need to brush up on that stuff?"

“Nope.  Take whatever you want.  Here’s your receipt.  You’re all set.”