General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5218 proposes significant amendments to the employment contracts of teachers, focusing on the processes for termination and nonrenewal for both tenured and non-tenured teachers. A key insertion in the bill is the introduction of a "just cause" standard for the termination of non-tenured teachers, replacing the previous provision that allowed for termination at any time for specified reasons. The bill mandates that non-tenured teachers receive written notice of nonrenewal by May 1st and grants them the right to request a hearing if they receive such notice. For tenured teachers, the bill maintains the continuity of contracts but allows for termination under specific circumstances, such as inefficiency or incompetence, with evaluations based on established guidelines. The hearing process for tenured teachers is also modified to ensure they receive written notice of termination considerations and can request a hearing within ten days, with the findings from the hearing being binding.

Additionally, the bill enhances protections for teachers against financial loss due to assaults while performing their duties. It requires boards of education and state agencies to cover expenses related to such assaults, including medical costs not covered by other insurance, and ensures that teachers injured in these incidents continue to receive their full salary during their absence without it being charged against their leave. The legislation also allows individuals who suffer financial losses due to assaults to bring civil actions for damages, including the potential recovery of attorney's fees if they prevail. Overall, Raised Bill No. 5218 aims to provide clearer guidelines and protections for teachers regarding employment decisions and safety in educational settings, while ensuring due process in termination and nonrenewal cases.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-236a