The bill, introduced by Senator Peacock, amends several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes concerning the certification of educators and school personnel. It establishes conditional admission criteria for teacher education programs, allowing applicants who do not meet the standard GPA requirement to continue if they achieve a 3.00 average in their first twelve credit hours. The bill also streamlines the certification process for out-of-state teachers and introduces a provisional teaching permit for those who have not passed required examinations but meet specific educational criteria. Additionally, it clarifies the qualifications for principals and superintendents, mandates background checks, and prohibits credential issuance for individuals with certain criminal convictions.

Significant changes include the introduction of an appeals process for denied certification applicants, the requirement for annual reporting on examination administration, and the nomination process for school administrators. The bill mandates that all applicants for initial educator credentials undergo a criminal history record check starting January 1, 2025, and requires educators to report any final convictions within two business days. It also emphasizes maintaining the confidentiality of criminal history information and outlines penalties for non-compliance. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the educator certification process in Louisiana, making it more accessible, efficient, and focused on student safety.

Statutes affected:
SB197 Original: 17:7(6), 17:15(B)
SB197 Engrossed: 17:7(6), 17:15(B)
SB197 Reengrossed: 17:7(6), 17:15(B), 15:1(A)
SB197 Re-Reengrossed: 17:7(6), 17:15(B), 15:1(A)
SB197 Enrolled: 17:7(6), 17:15(B), 15:1(A)
SB197 Act : 17:7(6), 17:15(B), 15:1(A)