This bill amends Chapter 12, Title 33 of the Idaho Code to establish a new Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program, which aims to provide an alternative pathway for prospective teachers to obtain a bachelor's degree and teaching licensure through a combination of on-the-job training and academic coursework. The program will be overseen by the state board of education, which will set eligibility requirements and guidelines in accordance with federal apprenticeship standards. Key definitions are provided, including "mentor teacher" and "teacher apprentice," and it is specified that teacher apprentices will not serve as the teacher of record while in the program. Upon completion, apprentices will receive a standard certificate and be eligible for licensure.

Additionally, the bill revises existing provisions regarding required certificates for educators. It removes the requirement for a certificate for students participating in the new registered teacher apprenticeship program and clarifies that no certificate is needed for practice teachers under supervision. The bill also updates the requirements for issuing standard certificates, ensuring that they are only granted to individuals holding a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or those who have completed the registered apprenticeship program. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-1201, 33-1203