This bill amends Section 6-101 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to teacher contracts in school districts. A significant change is the prohibition of written contracts with certified teachers for a duration of less than one year, unless otherwise allowed by law. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that allow school districts to enter into contracts with student teachers and individuals in the process of obtaining certification, provided they meet specific requirements. The bill also mandates that school districts pay teachers any state-mandated salary increases during contract negotiations that occur after the school year has begun.

The bill includes several deletions and insertions to clarify the roles and responsibilities of school boards and teachers regarding contracts. For instance, it replaces the previous subsection designations and adds new provisions regarding the employment of student teachers and the conditions under which contracts may be terminated. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.