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	Vol.7, No 10, September 15, 1999
	Teachers stress improved training By Kristopher Hanson Daily Forty-Niner A campaign designed to improve teacher recruitment and awareness of the Cal State University systemís role in elementary and high school teacher reform kicked off Tuesday.     School teachers from around the state met with the California State University Board of Trustees to discuss issues affecting teacher preparation at CSU campuses.   "[We need to] improve the public perception of teachers...and encourage more students to become teachers," said Ursula Sexton, a teacher at Green Valley Elementary School.   The yearlong campaign titled "Celebrating Teachers" began with a meeting between the CSU Board of Trustees and 22 of the stateís top teachers.   Twenty-two of Californiaís top instructors, who are also CSU alumni, met at the Chancellorís Office to discuss how the CSU system affects teacher education.     "What [resources] are out there to help these children and how can we better use technology to educate our students?" asked Rick Ausby, an instructor at Turtleback Elementary School.   The meeting provided a forum for educator's to voice their concerns and offer ways they believe will help train future teachers graduating from the CSU system.   "We also need more hands-on training," Sexton said. "The role of the administration on campus [should be addressed]."   Some issues at the meeting included how to deal with the stateís diverse population, changing the way tests are administered and classroom safety.   "We need to provide a safe environment for all kids," Ausby said. "We also believe there is an over-emphasis on testing [in math and reading] when school is just now back in session."   Ausby's group addressed the topic that students of similar economic backgrounds, but dissimilar ethnic and racial backgrounds, are apart in test scores.   "We need to narrow that gap," he said.   Also during the conference, the teachers were honored for their innovative teaching methods, commitment to students and their leadership in mentoring future teachers.    Although CSU Chancellor Charles B. Reed was not present at the conference, he applauded the teachers in a written statement.    "These 22 individuals are the cream of the CSU crop," Reed said. "Their dedication, expertise and passion for teaching will surely inspire a generation of students."    Cal State Long Beach alumnus, Cedric Anderson, was one of the 22 honored at the symposium. He is now an educator at Rosewood Community Education Center in Downey.    Today, CSU trustees will vote to adopt a resolution that re-establishes the requirements for a teaching degree at Cal State and University of California campuses. The resolution would implement a 15-unit high school/college preparatory course pattern for first-time freshmen entering either a CSU or UC campus.   The initiative would be implemented by 2003.		Teachers stress improved training Computer jobs hottest in market Package frightens residents Campus moms get support Center answers students' career questions, problems L.B. department aids job seekers Temporary jobs provide experience to students Grad advice eases student confusion A spade is still a spade U.S. owes E. Timor more than money Peruvian artist displays talent Gallo comes home Determination equals victory Fall 99 ISSUES DAILY 49ER HOMEPAGE
Forty-Niner Publications, Department of Journalism, California State University, Long Beach ©1999 All rights reserved.