Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Error #6: Indiana certification officials unable to explain Erwin teaching license mystery

Dr. Ray Graves, Assistant Director for Licensing with the Indiana Department of Education's Professional Standards Division confirmed information today that leaves in doubt whether Barbara Erwin's first year of teaching was consistent with state regulations.

On May 10, Kentucky School News and Commentary raised the issue of Erwin's teaching certificate and has been attempting to explain yet another (Error #6) descrepancy since.

Erwin's resume states:
"Teacher, Lafayette School Corporation, Lafayette, IN, Enrollment 8,000, 1971-73"

But when Vince Bertram, assistant superintendent with the Lafayette Indiana schools, researched employment records, he found that Erwin "taught for 22 weeks during the 1971-1972 school year." Bertram added, "Her resignation was effective on May 31, 1974. She was employed on a provisional teaching license."

But how did she get a license?

Indiana University registrars confirmed that she did not receive her Bachelor's degree until May 14, 1972.

Dr Graves informed Kentucky School News and Commentary that, "Indiana licensing rules in 1971 and since, have required that the minimum degree requirement for a teaching license is the Bachelor's degree, awarded from a regionally-accredited university or college."

Asked to explain how Erwin might have taught for 22 weeks in advance of receiving her degree, Graves responded, "I do not have an explanation for this information."

Kentucky School News and Commentary has written to Dr. (Dec 31, 1987,confirmed by IU) Erwin for an explanation. I'll let you know what she says.

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