Teachers; exempting from certain teacher candidates who have graduated from certain programs from examinations. Effective date. Emergency.
Impact
The proposed changes in SB 1375 would directly affect the state’s teacher certification laws, potentially increasing the number of qualified teachers in Oklahoma schools by simplifying their entry requirements. The elimination or alteration of examination prerequisites for those coming from recognized educational programs could facilitate quicker certification for many aspiring teachers. The bill underscores a shift towards a more flexible approach in recognizing the credentials and competencies of teacher candidates, which may reflect the growing recognition of alternative pathways into the teaching profession.
Summary
Senate Bill 1375 aims to amend various sections of the Oklahoma Statutes concerning teacher certification regulations. The bill proposes modifications that exempt certain teacher candidates who have graduated from approved programs from requiring specific examinations for certification. This amendment is intended to streamline the certification process for teachers, particularly those entering the education system through alternative pathways. By removing some examination barriers, the bill seeks to attract a more diverse pool of teacher candidates, enhancing the overall teaching workforce in the state.
Contention
While supporters argue that SB 1375 will help address teacher shortages and improve educational outcomes by allowing more accessible pathways into teaching, opponents may express concerns regarding the adequacy and rigor of the certification process without the traditional examination requirements. Critics may question whether such alterations could lead to a decline in education quality or preparedness among those entering the teaching profession through these newly established routes. Balancing the need for accessible certification with maintaining high educational standards is likely to be a key point of debate surrounding the legislation.
Alternative teacher certification; providing option of passing certain competency examinations; providing exemption for certain degree. Effective date. Emergency.
Teachers; requiring reimbursement for teachers who pass certain examination; requiring allocation of funds for certain stipends; effective date; emergency.
Teachers; requiring reimbursement for teachers who pass certain examination; requiring allocation of funds for certain stipends; effective date; emergency.
Teacher certification; directing the Commission for Educational Quality and Accountability to have certain authority over teacher certification until certain date. Effective date. Emergency.
Teachers; adjunct teachers; State Board of Career and Technology Education to promulgate certain rules; requiring State Department of Education to assist in implementing rules; effective date; emergency.
Teacher certification; directing the Commission for Educational Quality and Accountability to have certain authority over teacher certification until certain date. Effective date. Emergency.
Teacher certification; Oklahoma Teacher Preparation Act; removing requirement to pass the general education portion of the competency examination; emergency.
Alternative teacher certification; providing option of passing certain competency examinations; providing exemption for certain degree. Effective date. Emergency.
Teacher certification; modifying certain requirement for alternative certification; requiring contracting with multiple test vendors. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; modifying goals of certain programs; modifying eligibility for certain higher education programs; adding references to Classic Learning Test; effective date; emergency.