Washington Revised Code Title 28A. Common School Provisions § 28A.660.005. Findings--Declaration

(a) Teacher qualifications and effectiveness are the most important influences on student learning in schools;

(b) Preparation of individuals to become well-qualified, effective teachers must be high quality;

(c) Teachers who complete high quality alternative route programs with intensive field-based experience, adequate coursework, and strong mentorship do as well or better than teachers who complete traditional preparation programs;

(d) High quality alternative route programs can provide more flexibility and expedience for individuals to transition from their current career to teaching;

(e) High quality alternative route programs can help school districts fill subject matter shortage areas and areas with shortages due to geographic location;

(f) Regardless of route, all candidates for residency teacher certification must meet the high standards required by the state; and

(g) Teachers need an adequate background in subject matter content if they are to teach it well, and should hold full, appropriate credentials in those subject areas.