NC Considers Replacing Math Portion Of Teacher Licensing Exam

The math portion of North Carolina teacher licensing exam could soon be replaced.

Earlier this year, State Board of Education officials learned that nearly 2,400 elementary and special education teachers have failed in their bids to secure their licenses because they didn't pass the math section. 

Critics say the test requires middle and high school math skills that teachers of young children may not use.

According to The Charlotte Observer, a report presented to the Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission last week found the licensing exam's math portion wasn't indicative of effective teaching.

The current licensing exam costs $139 and consists of three portions created by the for-profit Pearson publishing company. Teachers have to pay additional fees to retake sections.

The commission voted unanimously to keep the reading test, end the multi-subject section and replace Pearson's math test with the nonprofit ETS' Praxis math exam.

The state Board of Education could vote to adopt the new requirements in February.