The new test requirements will go into effect after the test is approved and written into the certification rules that govern teacher certification. These updated rules will have to be approved by the State Board.
(From the Nebraska Department of Education April State Board meeting agenda)
Nebraska does not require educator preparation candidates or applicants for a Nebraska certificate to pass a content test.
Nebraska is currently the only state that does not use a content test as an indicator in the educator preparation process.
At the direction of the Commissioner, NDE staff investigated testing options, conducted preliminary work to identify appropriate tests related to Nebraska endorsements, and facilitated discussion related to other implementation details.
In March 2013 a group of stakeholders (including teachers, administrators, educator preparation and other higher education faculty, and NDE content consultants) met to review Praxis II test options available through the Educational Testing Service and to make preliminary recommendations for a passing score. At the May meeting, the Board will be asked to approve moving forward with implementation of a content testing requirement.
