The bill CS/CS/HB 875 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to enhance educator preparation and certification processes. Key changes include the repeal of provisions regarding uniform core curricula for certain teacher preparation programs, the revision of "field experience" to "clinical experience," and the establishment of new requirements for these experiences. The bill allows the Department of Education to reduce required internship hours for experienced candidates and mandates the State Board of Education to adopt rules for these new guidelines. Additionally, it creates the Florida Institute for Teaching Excellence at Miami Dade College, which will focus on professional learning systems and the approval of teacher preparation programs based on performance metrics and student learning impact.

The legislation also introduces a new competency-based training and certification pathway known as the Coaching for Educator Readiness and Teaching (CERT) Program, which includes mentorship and performance assessments. It revises certification requirements, including the completion of clinical educator training and certification in reading for those teaching grades K-3. Significant deletions from current law include the removal of detailed structures for professional learning certification programs and specific criteria for professional learning courses. The bill emphasizes the importance of aligning professional development with student learning outcomes and mandates regular reviews of professional learning systems to ensure effectiveness. Overall, the bill aims to improve the quality and flexibility of educator preparation in Florida, ensuring that educators are well-equipped to meet the needs of their students.

Statutes affected:
H 875 Filed: 1012.555, 1012.55, 1012.57, 1012.98
H 875 c1: 1012.555, 1012.585, 1012.55, 1012.57, 1012.98
H 875 c2: 1012.555, 1012.585, 1012.55, 1012.57, 1012.98