Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1403

Introduced
5/5/25  
Refer
5/5/25  
Refer
6/17/25  
Report Pass
6/23/25  
Engrossed
6/23/25  

Caption

In certification of teachers, further providing for program of continuing professional and paraprofessional education.

Impact

This legislation is expected to have a significant impact on state laws relating to teacher certification and professional development. By stipulating more rigorous continuing education requirements, HB1403 seeks to ensure that educators are not only equipped with foundational knowledge but also with ongoing training that reflects best practices and innovations in teaching. This could lead to the establishment of new standards that may override existing regulations, ultimately aiming for a more competent teaching workforce across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1403 aims to enhance the certification process for teachers by further specifying requirements for continuing professional and paraprofessional education programs. The bill addresses the evolving needs of educational professionals by ensuring that their qualifications and skills are kept current, thereby improving the quality of education. This is particularly relevant as it aligns with initiatives designed to upgrade educational standards and better prepare educators for the challenges of modern classrooms.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB1403 appears to be positive, particularly among education professionals and advocates who recognize the importance of continuous learning in maintaining high educational standards. Supporters argue that the bill helps to ensure teachers and paraprofessionals are adequately prepared for their roles, which, in turn, benefits students. However, there may be concerns from some educators regarding the feasibility of meeting new requirements, especially those who may already face challenges in their current roles.

Contention

While most discussions on HB1403 have been supportive, there are notable points of contention regarding the implementation of the continuing education programs. Critics may raise concerns about the potential financial and logistical burdens this may impose on teachers, particularly on those in underserved areas or those with limited access to professional development resources. These discussions are crucial as they address how best to balance the intention behind the bill with the practical realities teachers face in their professional lives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1395

In certification of teachers, further providing for program of continuing professional and paraprofessional education.

PA HB928

In certification of teachers, further providing for continuing professional development and for program of continuing professional and paraprofessional education.

PA HB1396

In certification of teachers, further providing for program of continuing professional and paraprofessional education.

PA SB801

In certification of teachers, further providing for teacher

PA HB1019

Providing for paraprofessional-to-teacher certification program; and establishing the Paraprofessional-To-Teacher Grant Program.

PA HB481

In certification of teachers, providing for "What is your Pennsylvania Story" continuing professional development course; and, in terms and courses of study, further providing for Holocaust, genocide and human rights violations instruction.

PA HB1875

In certification of teachers, further providing for continuing professional development; providing for access to advanced courses for all students; establishing the Access to Advanced Courses for All Students Grant Program; and imposing duties on the Department of Education.

PA SB1341

In certification of teachers, further providing for continuing professional development; providing for access to advanced courses for all students; establishing the Access to Advanced Courses for All Students Grant Program; and imposing duties on the Department of Education.

PA HB2572

In certification of teachers, providing for tuition assistance for inactive educators.

PA HB1653

In certification of teachers, further providing for continuing professional development; providing for access to advanced placement courses for all students; establishing the Advanced Placement Teacher Training Program; and imposing duties on the Department of Education and on school entities.

Similar Bills

CA AB586

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NJ A2285

Establishes process for formation of professional limited liability companies.

NJ S1425

Revises "The Professional Service Corporation Act."

MS SB2133

Mississippi Design Professionals Act; enact.

MS SB2217

Mississippi Design Professionals Act; enact.

MI HB4172

Probate: guardians and conservators; requirements to be appointed as guardian or conservator; modify. Amends title & secs. 5106, 5108a, 5313 & 5409 of 1998 PA 386 (MCL 700.5106 et seq.) & adds secs. 5106a & 5106b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 4171'23

CA SB1024

Replacement of an incapacitated or deceased professional fiduciary.

MI HB4728

Occupations: individual licensing and registration; licensure of professional guardians and conservators; require. Amends sec. 303a of 1980 PA 299 (MCL 339.303a) & adds art. 14A.