North Dakota Senate Bill SB2070

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/23
• Refer: 1/3/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Report Pass: 1/24/23
• Engrossed: 1/27/23
• Refer: 2/15/23
• Report Pass: 3/15/23
• Enrolled: 3/22/23
• Passed: 3/28/23

Caption

Criteria for teacher permits; and to provide an expiration date.

Impact

This bill significantly impacts the qualifications required for teaching in North Dakota, particularly in filling specialist roles that may currently face a shortage of licensed educators. By allowing individuals with relevant work experience, or those enrolled in teacher education programs, to obtain permits under certain conditions, the legislation aims to address the teacher shortage in the state. This flexibility is expected to improve the accessibility of teaching roles in specialized subjects and may help retain educators in the face of hiring challenges. However, it remains to be seen how effectively this will translate into increased teacher recruitment and retention.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 2070 amends section 15.1-18-10 of the North Dakota Century Code, introducing new criteria for teacher permits in various specialty areas, effective until July 31, 2023. The bill allows individuals to teach subjects such as art, business education, computer education, foreign languages, music, and technology education at any grade level from kindergarten through grade eight, provided they meet certain qualifications including licensing and approval by the education standards and practices board. Additionally, the bill enables teaching Native American languages under specific credentialing, reflecting an effort to acknowledge and incorporate indigenous languages in educational curricula.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB2070 appears to be favorable among legislators, as reflected in the unanimous voting history with 92 yeas and no nays during its last reading in the House. Supporters of the bill believe it will enhance educational opportunities by expanding teaching options and alleviating staff shortages. However, potential concerns could arise regarding the qualifications and preparedness of teachers hired under the new permit system. Advocates may need to monitor the implementation closely to ensure that educational standards remain high.

Contention

While the bill passed without dissent, some may argue that loosening the qualifications could lead to a decline in educational standards, particularly in critical subject areas like math and sciences where expertise is essential. Another point of contention is the potential reliance on non-traditional pathways to teaching, which could be debated among educational policy stakeholders. Opposition may arise in future discussions if the implementation of these permits does not meet the expected educational outcomes or if data shows adverse effects on student performance.