Wisconsin Legislative Council
ACT MEMO
One Ea st Ma in Stre e t, Suite 401 • Ma dison, W I 53703 • (608) 266-1304 • le g.council@le gis.wisconsin.gov • http://www.le gis.wisconsin.gov/lc
Prepared by: Emily Hicks, Staff Attorney March 25, 2024
2023 Wisconsin Act 197
[2023 Senate Bill 742]
Alternative Teacher Certification
Program
Under current law, the Department of Public Instruction must grant an initial license to teach to an
individual who possesses a bachelor’s degree, passes a background check, and has completed an
alternative teacher certification program operated by an organization that satisfies all of the following
criteria:
Is a nonstock, nonprofit organization described under s. 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Operates in at least five states.
Has been operating an alternative teacher certification program for at least 10 years.
Requires candidates to pass a subject area exam and the pedagogy exam known as the Professional
Teaching Knowledge exam to receive a certification under the alternative teacher certification.
2023 Wisconsin Act 197 removes the requirement that the organization be a nonstock, nonprofit
organization.
Effective date: March 24, 2024
For a full history of the bill, visit the Legislature’s bill history page.
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