This bill amends various sections of Florida Statutes related to educator certifications and training, specifically focusing on the inclusion of training for mass casualty incidents in teacher preparation programs. It revises the core curricula for state-approved teacher preparation programs to mandate training on identifying, preventing, preparing for, addressing, and responding to mass casualty incidents. Additionally, it requires postsecondary educator preparation institutions to incorporate similar training into their programs. The bill also updates the eligibility criteria for certified educators and adjunct teaching certificate holders to include this training, ensuring that all educators are equipped to handle such emergencies.

Furthermore, the bill makes several conforming changes to cross-references within the statutes, including the adjustment of certification requirements for educators and adjunct educators to reflect the new training mandates. Specifically, it modifies the requirements for certification to include training in mass casualty incidents, thereby enhancing the preparedness of educators in crisis situations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 23 Filed: 1004.04, 1012.57