The bill amends the Revised School Code to establish a process for individuals to earn an interim teaching certificate that qualifies them to teach in public schools and subsequently obtain a Michigan teaching certificate. The superintendent of public instruction is tasked with creating this process, which must comply with the requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act and the Every Student Succeeds Act. Notably, the bill removes the provision that would have prohibited the granting of interim teaching certificates for special education after July 21, 2027, allowing individuals who already hold such certificates to continue teaching under them.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific criteria for individuals seeking an interim teaching certificate, including participation in an approved alternative teaching program, holding a degree from an institutionally accredited college or university, and passing relevant subject area examinations. It also specifies the training requirements for teaching special education, which include a comprehensive understanding of various teaching strategies and legal frameworks. The bill mandates the development of standards for granting Michigan teaching certificates after three years of satisfactory teaching performance under an interim certificate and requires annual reporting on the issuance of interim certificates and teacher retention rates.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 380.1531