This bill allows the board of education to provide a certificate of eligibility for individuals seeking to become career and technical educators in specific specialty areas. It introduces a new subparagraph to RSA 21-N:9, II(s), which permits candidates for a career and technical education (CTE) specialty area license to substitute certain qualifications for a nationally recognized test of academic proficiency. Specifically, candidates may use three years of professional paid full-time experience in the relevant area and a current industry-recognized credential approved by the department, as listed in a published list of acceptable credentials.

The bill aims to create alternate certification pathways for CTE instructors, thereby broadening the pool of qualified educators in these fields. The new provisions are designed to recognize practical experience and industry credentials as valid qualifications for teaching, which may help address shortages in CTE programs. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, with an effective date of August 30, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-N:9
Version adopted by both bodies: 21-N:9
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 21-N:9