Committee advances bill to make alternative teacher-certification program permanent

Representative Shriver presented Senate Bill 1432 and asked the committee to remove pilot and sunset language for an alternative teacher-certification program. The bill would allow qualified providers to offer a two-year path to certification for candidates who did not follow a traditional training route.

Shriver told the committee the program offers intensive training, mentor teachers and an accelerated pathway intended to increase the number of classroom-ready instructors. She described "intense six week" training periods and said participants have mentor teachers and must meet program requirements before they earn a two-year certification path.

Members signaled support, registered a do pass and the committee agreed to send SB 1432 out as a do pass.