Wisconsin Senate Bill SB203

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

A lifetime license that authorizes an individual to teach an American Indian language in an American Indian language program and modifying rules promulgated by the Department of Public Instruction. (FE)

Impact

This bill impacts state laws pertaining to the issuance of teaching licenses by enabling tribal governments to have a decisive role in the licensing process. The Department of Public Instruction (DPI) will be required to notify tribal governments whenever an applicant seeks a lifetime license to teach an American Indian language. The tribal authority will then assess whether the applicant is highly skilled in the language before endorsing them for the license. This change reflects a broader trend towards recognizing and empowering tribal sovereignty in educational matters, particularly in preserving and promoting indigenous languages through qualified teaching.

Summary

Senate Bill 203 proposes a significant amendment to the existing teaching license framework, specifically concerning the authorization to teach American Indian languages. Under current law, individuals can obtain a tier III lifetime license after meeting specific teaching experience requirements. However, this bill adds a provision allowing federally recognized American Indian tribes or bands to evaluate applicants for this license based on their qualifications in teaching the associated native languages. This aims to empower tribal governments to oversee the proficiency and appropriateness of language instruction in their respective languages, ensuring that teaching is carried out by individuals who meet culturally relevant standards.

Contention

Despite its intent to strengthen tribal authority, the bill may face contention from various stakeholders. Proponents will argue that it fosters better educational standards and respects tribal sovereignty by allowing tribes to have a say in who teaches their languages. However, potential critics, including educational advocates, may express concerns about the possible administrative burden this places on tribes or the implication that it could limit the pool of teachers available for these vital educational roles, particularly in instances where there are already shortages of qualified individuals.

Notable_points

SB203 represents a shift towards more localized control in educational matters, particularly surrounding the teaching of indigenous languages. It is framed within a context of increasing recognition of the importance of cultural heritage and language preservation among native communities. As such, this bill serves not only a practical purpose in terms of education but also a symbolic gesture towards acknowledging the significance of American Indian languages and cultures within the state's educational framework.