This bill establishes a new framework for teacher certification in Oklahoma by requiring the State Department of Education to develop a coding system for initial teacher certification. This system aims to enhance data reporting on various certification pathways, including emergency and full-time adjunct certifications. Additionally, the bill creates the Data Governance Council, which will monitor and evaluate the impact of these certification pathways on educational outcomes, identify essential data elements for teacher workforce quality, and establish best practices for data management and security.

The Data Governance Council will consist of thirteen members, including representatives from the State Department of Education, higher education, school districts, and teacher organizations. Appointments to the Council must be completed by December 1, 2025, with the first meeting scheduled for February 1, 2026. The Council will meet quarterly, operate under the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and Open Records Act, and members will not receive compensation for their service. The bill also includes provisions exempting Council members from dual office-holding prohibitions. The effective date of the act is set for November 1, 2025.