BAUXITE, AR - When Pulaski Tech Cosmetology Supervisor Scottie Burchette first heard about the new teacher-licensing program from the Arkansas Department of Workforce Development, she wasn’t sure it was worth the time or money.

Now, “I think this program is vital not just for new teachers, but for all teachers who have made the transition from business to education, regardless their experience.”

The Arkansas Department of Workforce Education launched the program now known as Arkansas NETI (formerly TPTTP), to rave reviews from participants and observers.

“It has taught me how to teach without standing in front of a class lecturing,” said instructor Beth Jackson.

“This class showed us, as teachers, how to bring out the best in every student. Not one child should be left behind,” wrote instructor Regina Woodard.

"I think that QTL is the most helpful program any teacher could take - not only new teachers," wrote Bryan Holliman. "It teaches you new exciting ways to teach that interest the children instead of bore them.  All my students really enjoy my new teaching strategies (and so does my boss).  They learn a lot more using these methods instead of just memorizing for the test."

TPTTP participants collaborate on a project during a session at Saline County Community College.

"I wish I had this class when I first started teaching," says Industrial Technology teacher Paul Wells. "They say nothing can prepare you for the first day, but this course has done a better job than any I have attended. The classroom management book is a great resource.

"The other thing that I have come to realize is that education in technology is dependent to a large degree on having a network of contacts that are going through many of the same issues as you are," Wells continues. "This class can help build that network. I would highly recommend this class."

Arkansas NETI is a 90-hour preparation course for teachers transitioning into Career and Technical Education from the business world (read what an Arkansas NETI session is like). Combined with ADWE’s 45 hour CMI course, teachers earn 135 clock hours required to gain their teaching credentials, says Dick Burchette, head of the Office of Technical and Professional Education.

“This program is designed to help new teachers survive their first year and thrive in their new career,” says Instructor Tamara McCulloch. “Teachers learn about the business of school, classroom management, discipline, how to engage students and they learn to use research-based instructional practices and technology tools. The result is more effective teachers, a reduction in the turnover rate and teachers really can reach every student, every day.”

In a recent session, the first cohort of participants created graphic demonstrations to teach specific objectives of their course framework. One group of Cosmetology instructors taught how to clean an accidental blood spill. Another group created a presentation of how to safely store chemicals.

“That’s fine. You did it,” said instructor McCulloch, “but the key is not for you to do it, get your students to do the work. That way they are engaged in their own learning and they do the work, not you.”

Read more about the program, or get more information by contacting Debbie Gullett at dgullett@qtlcenters.org or 501.467.6767.