Bill No. 553, introduced by Senators Pugh and Thompson and Representative Sterling, amends several sections of the Oklahoma Statutes concerning the State Board of Education's powers and duties. The bill introduces new grounds for the denial or revocation of teaching certificates, specifically for individuals convicted of certain offenses, including the failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect. It mandates that school employees annually sign an attestation regarding their reporting obligations and updates various statutory references for clarity. Additionally, the bill requires the State Board of Education to submit an annual electronic report to the Governor and Legislature detailing public school statistics, emphasizing the importance of professional development programs and updating procedures for criminal history checks for school employment.

The bill also establishes the Statistical Services Revolving Fund to finance statistical services for schools and outlines the process for determining redbud school grants based on nonchargeable millage per student. It introduces new requirements for criminal history checks, prohibiting individuals convicted of specific crimes from receiving teaching certificates, and allows for temporary employment pending these checks. Furthermore, it clarifies the criteria for teacher dismissal based on performance and conduct, particularly regarding the reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Committee Substitute: 70-1210.163
Floor (Senate): 70-1210.163
Engrossed: 70-1210.163