The bill amends sections 3319.079 and 3319.22 of the Revised Code to update the specifications for educator license grade bands in Ohio. It allows holders of valid educator licenses to renew their licenses using either the previous grade band specifications or the current ones at the time of renewal. For licenses renewed after October 24, 2024, the bill ensures that the holder receives a grade band specification that includes the grades they were previously authorized to teach. Additionally, licenses issued after the amendment's effective date will clearly indicate the specific grade bands the educator is licensed to teach, while excluding certain specialized licenses from these changes.

The bill also enables various educational entities, such as county boards of developmental disabilities and educational service centers, to establish local professional development committees to review coursework proposed by licensed employees. It introduces exemptions for consistently high-performing teachers and school counselors from additional coursework requirements for license renewal, provided they meet specific performance criteria. Furthermore, the state board is mandated to issue various educator licenses to applicants with licenses from other states or relevant work experience. Notably, existing sections 3319.079 and 3319.22 of the Revised Code are repealed as part of this legislation.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3319.079, 3319.22