October 29, 2017

Michelle Rochel
610 Ridge Road
Osceola, WI 54020
smrock_40@hotmail.com

Office of the Governor

115 East State Capitol
Madison, WI 53702

Dear Governor Walker:

School has always been my favorite place. Effective teachers make a difference on a daily basis. They take
professional development courses and workshops to stay current on ways to address all students needs. Educators
are the base of all other careers. Without effective and current classroom practices in place, students are most
affected in their learning and success. Wisconsin Legislature Act 59 causes great concern to me.

Would you go to a doctor if you knew they did not have to take any new workshops or professional development to
keep their license? Would you hire a plumber or electrician if you knew they have been in business for a number of
years but not taken any new continuing education courses? Teachers need to take professional development courses
to stay current with best practices. Having a lifetime license dilutes the profession. It also creates an idea that current
trends are not important and teachers are not valued as professionals.

My fear is some teachers will not pursue further education to be the best versions of themselves in the classroom.
They will become stagnant in their teaching. Some teachers should not have lifetime licenses as it is not best for the
students, our number one stake-holders.

Another fear I have is allowing teachers in the classroom without the proper classroom training. An effective teacher
takes specialized classes as they prepare for their degree. They continue to take classes that will assist them in the
classroom. Would you really entrust anyone to be part of a students day without the proper training? Would you
really feel comfortable putting anyone in a classroom of special needs students without knowing how to handle their
behaviors and limitations?

I have been in the education field for the last 27 years and still take courses to make me a better teacher. I continue
to take classes to know the best practices for all of my students. Although a regular education teacher, I am taking
special education classes that will better assist students with various individual needs. Would I be comfortable being
a full-time special education teacher with the classes I have taken? No. I am not fully prepared to be in that learning
environment. It saddens me to think anyone can teach. It takes a special person to be in the classroom to create
problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and independent learners.

I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time as we move forward in the
education licensing format.

Sincerely,

Michelle Rochel