Provides a rejoinder to comments published in the February issue rebutting author's article on the risks and promises of extended teacher-preparation programs. Covers issues surrounding costs and benefits, the need for evaluative research before investment in programs, the differences between types of programs, and their objectives and possible…

Extended programs are likely to reduce the quality and quantity of teachers and probably will not improve teacher performance. Because the risks of extended programs are great and the benefits uncertain, other strategies for improving teacher education should be explored more aggressively. (Author/LHW)