WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
The state senate this week unanimously approved state Rep. Aaron Miller’s plan to eliminate burdensome requirements to educators, giving new teachers more time to work with students in the classroom.
New teachers are issued a standard teaching certificate with a professional certificate available after three years classroom experience, over 150 hours of professional development and additional post-graduate coursework.
New instructors may renew their five-year standard or provisional certification multiple times, obtaining a professional certificate may be required as early as three years into a teacher’s career.
New teachers need to be focused on their students, not a mandate with little to do with quality work in the classroom, Miller said.
Miller noted the legislation only makes it optional for teachers to pursue the professional certification. The plan has the support of the state Department of Education, along with multiple other educational groups.
House Bill 4614 advances to the governor for consideration.
