Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB604

Introduced
10/30/25  
Refer
10/30/25  

Caption

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

Impact

The introduction of SB604 could significantly revise state laws governing educational programs and teacher qualifications. By allowing for modified licensure requirements, the bill may facilitate increased participation of teachers and administrators in these specific educational programs, alongside potentially expanding opportunities for parents to make choices that best fit their children's educational needs. This change is poised to create a more inclusive environment for diverse learning experiences, contrasting with traditional public school settings.

Summary

SB604 is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying the licensure requirements for teachers and administrators involved in parental choice programs, as well as the Special Needs Scholarship Program. The bill seeks to grant rule-making authority regarding the qualifications and certifications needed to operate within these educational frameworks. The intent is to enhance flexibility and accessibility in education for students, particularly those who have specific learning needs or require alternative educational settings as determined by their parents or guardians.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill may also face scrutiny regarding the implications for educational standards and accountability. Critics worry that easing licensure requirements could lead to a decline in teaching quality and oversight, especially in programs designed to serve students with special needs. They argue that such changes should not compromise the rigorous standards that ensure educators are fully qualified and trained to address diverse learning challenges. The ongoing debate surrounding SB604 highlights a broader discussion about balancing parental choice in education with the need to maintain high educational standards.

Companion Bills

WI AB620

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

Previously Filed As

WI AB620

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

WI AB825

A grant program to support parent and guardian volunteer programs in schools, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB834

A grant program to support parent and guardian volunteer programs in schools, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB526

Allowing individuals who hold a substitute teaching permit to substitute teach at private schools participating in a parental choice program.

WI AB518

Allowing individuals who hold a substitute teaching permit to substitute teach at private schools participating in a parental choice program.

WI AB570

Payments for pupils who withdraw from a parental choice program, the Special Needs Scholarship Program, or an independent charter school. (FE)

WI SB568

Payments for pupils who withdraw from a parental choice program, the Special Needs Scholarship Program, or an independent charter school. (FE)

WI AB1157

Pupil discrimination and private schools participating in a parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program, discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, and providing a penalty.

WI SB565

Pupil discrimination and private schools participating in a parental choice program or the Special Needs Scholarship Program, discrimination based on gender identity or gender expression, and providing a penalty.

WI AB1101

Grants to encourage individuals to pursue a career in teaching or to facilitate teacher licensure, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

KY HB6

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY HB422

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations.

KY SB23

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY SB20

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations and declaring an emergency.

KY HB494

AN ACT relating to administrative regulations.

HI SB3182

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KY HB81

AN ACT relating to governmental accountability and declaring an emergency.

HI HB2417

Relating To Administrative License Revocation.