Teacher Center Bill Introduced By Kennedy

By HOWARD MEGDAL

Senator Edward M. Kennedy announced a plan to spend $100 million nationally on Teacher Centers around the country at the American Federation of Teachers convention last month.

The bill was also introduced by George Miller (D-California) in the House of Representatives.

'An Innovative Approach'

"The Teacher Centers model grew out of an innovative approach to supporting the professional development of teachers in England," Mr. Kennedy said in his speech. "That model enables teachers to become leaders and decision-makers in their own professional growth and in the environments in which they work. It enables them to collaboratively plan and implement staff development and reform that can be shared with their colleagues, as a means for reflection and improvement in their teaching practice."

Mr. Kennedy was honored by the AFT with a lifetime achievement award.

"It's a special honor to be here with you this year as you embark upon a new chapter to organize, mobilize, make your voice heard and make a difference in the nation," Mr. Kennedy said to delegates. "It's essential that you make your voices heard."