Schools; providing for modifications and professional development opportunities for administrators and principals to increase efficiency and effectiveness; effective date.
Note
The bill is planned to be effective from November 1, 2022, reflecting an intention to implement these changes promptly within the coming academic year.
Impact
The bill is expected to change the landscape of professional development for school administrators by reducing the burden of annual recurring training. Under HB3660, once administrators complete their initial training, they will be exempt from ongoing professional development unless there are new requirements added. This could lead to a more streamlined training process, potentially enhancing the focus on practical leadership skills and allowing better allocation of time and resources within schools.
Summary
House Bill 3660 seeks to amend existing education laws in Oklahoma concerning the professional development of school administrators and principals. The bill proposes modifications to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of school leaders by allowing them more flexibility in fulfilling their professional development requirements. Specifically, it allows administrators to use a maximum of three professional development days each school year instead of the mandated training. This initiative is aimed at freeing up time for school leaders to concentrate on their core responsibilities.
Contention
While the bill appears to have the potential for positive changes in school administration effectiveness, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of training and development provided to school leaders. Critics might argue that reducing ongoing training requirements could diminish the quality of leadership in schools. Additionally, the provision for grant writing training, which can be offered during the exempted days with superintendent approval, opens discussions about whether it sufficiently covers the comprehensive development needs of school administrators.
School employees; modifying requirements under the Empowered Schools and School Districts Act; providing salary increases for certain teachers of empowered schools, zones, and districts. Effective date. Emergency.