Examines the relationships between a number of different kinds and examples of teacher professionalization on elementary and secondary teachers in the U.S. and the commitment of teachers to their teaching careers. Summarizes the following characteristics of professions and professionals: credentials, induction, professional development, authority, and compensation. Describes what effect education reformers have expected these traditional characteristics to have on teachers' attitudes, performance, quality, and specifically, their commitment to their careers. Includes both private and public schools. Charts and tables.