Anticipated teacher shortages together with concern for increased subject matter background have contributed to the development, both nationally and in Florida, of alternative teacher preparation programs and alternative routes to teacher certification. This report includes chapters on: teacher supply and demand in the United States and in Florida; background and current status of alternative teacher certification; models from four states (New Jersey, South Carolina, California, and Florida) of alternative teacher preparation and certification programs; and status and assessment of Florida's alternative certification program for secondary teachers. Findings from this study indicate that Florida's Experimental Alternative Certification Program for Secondary Teachers has fallen short of its full potential to tap the supply of prospective teachers outside the traditional pipeline of education graduates. Although those districts that have participated in the alternative certification program expressed positive experiences, it is not considered likely that participation in the program will expand greatly as long as temporary certificates are a readily available option and as long as the design and implementation of the training component remains a district responsibility. Nine recommendations for improvement of the program are offered. (IAH)