Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB534

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/18/23
• Refer: 10/18/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Teacher and administrator licensure in parental choice programs and in the Special Needs Scholarship Program and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Impact

The bill introduces a new mandate aimed at ensuring that educators in private schools that receive public funding under these programs meet specific qualifications. Proponents argue that this initiative will elevate educational standards and align the qualifications of private educators with those in public schools, thereby offering better oversight and improved educational outcomes for students. Additionally, the bill provides for a temporary waiver for those who have been teaching for five consecutive years prior to the implementation date, allowing them time to comply with the new licensure requirements.

Summary

Assembly Bill 534 seeks to amend the requirements for teachers and administrators in private schools participating in parental choice programs and the Special Needs Scholarship Program in Wisconsin. Under this bill, starting July 1, 2025, all teachers and administrators in these schools will be required to hold a valid license or permit issued by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI). This marks a significant shift from current law, which does not mandate that teachers in choice schools be licensed, although they must have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

Contention

Notably, the legislation has raised concerns among educators and private school advocates. Critics express fears that this requirement could lead to a shortage of qualified teachers, as some experienced educators may not be able or willing to undertake the licensing process. There are also specific exemptions in the bill for teachers of rabbinical studies, which some view as preferential treatment, potentially undermining the uniform application of educational standards across all subjects. This has sparked a debate on the balance between regulatory oversight and the autonomy of private educational institutions.