The development of teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) as a profession is outlined and the need for teacher education in the field is discussed. The TESOL profession has passed through three developmental stages culminating in a distinct identity based on theoretical foundations, effective teaching methods and materials, and the increasing demand for English language skills. The importance of the teacher's role as an enabler in second language learning is emphasized. Teachers of English as a second language (ESL) have expressed the need for training in a wider variety of teaching methods, adapting and writing ESL materials, classroom management, standardized tests and their interpretations, administrative and counseling aspects of ESL, and more varied practice teaching in Master's programs. Aspects of preservice Master's programs and inservice programs for ESL teachers are considered, including student selection, curriculum, faculty expertise, and placement services. It is concluded that TESOL must make recommendations and enact mechanisms for implementing quality teacher education. (RW)