This bill introduces significant changes to education provisions in Iowa, particularly concerning teacher salaries, preparation requirements, and the placement of students needing special education services. It establishes a minimum starting salary of $50,000 for teachers, with a requirement of at least $62,000 for full-time teachers who have twelve or more years of experience. Additionally, it ensures that retired teachers returning to the profession receive a minimum salary of $50,000. The bill also mandates the Department of Management to calculate a uniform teacher salary supplement district cost per pupil, eliminating the previous tiered system for these supplements.

Moreover, the bill revises teacher preparation requirements, including adjustments to pre-student teaching field experiences and the recognition of prior work experience as a substitute teacher or para-educator. It outlines the process for placing children requiring special education in out-of-state facilities, detailing the responsibilities of the child's district of residence and the financial obligations involved. The bill also transfers the responsibility for the online job posting system from the Department of Workforce Development to the Department of Education, enhancing accessibility and non-discrimination in hiring practices. The effective date of the bill is immediate upon enactment, reflecting the urgency of these educational reforms.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 257.10, 256.16, 249A.4A, 284.15, 97B.52A