The proposed bill would amend current Arizona statutes to require the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) to conduct an annual comprehensive study on teacher retention rates in school districts and charter schools. This study would include detailed data on certificated and non-certificated teachers, their teaching assignments, locations, years of experience, and demographic segments. Additionally, the bill mandates the analysis of vacant teaching positions and the effectiveness of teacher preparation programs. The ADE would also be required to submit the study results and recommendations to state leadership and maintain a publicly accessible dashboard with the findings.

Furthermore, the bill appropriates $100,000 from the Teacher Certification Fund for the fiscal year 2025-2026 to support the implementation of these requirements. It also updates existing budget reporting requirements for school districts to include the number of full-time equivalent teachers disaggregated by subject area and grade level, while removing previous requirements related to the display of average teacher salaries. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and provide valuable insights into teacher retention and staffing challenges in Arizona's educational system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-189.05, 15-501.02, 15-903, 15-501.01, 15-183
House Engrossed Version: 15-189.05, 15-501.02, 15-903, 15-501.01, 15-183