Gov. Walker proposes new teacher licensure plan

MADISON (AP) — Gov. Scott Walker is proposing an alternative pathway for people to become licensed as teachers in Wisconsin.

Walker on Thursday announced that he is proposing that people with work experience be allowed to take a competency test to gain a teacher license. Walker's spokeswoman says the Department of Public Instruction will be charged with creating a competency exam that will allow someone with "real life experience" to gain a teacher license.

The idea will be included in Walker's two-year state budget he plans to release on Feb. 3.

A spokeswoman for the statewide teachers union, and a spokesman for DPI, did not immediately return messages seeking comment.