Bill No. 2893 amends existing education law in Oklahoma to provide exemptions for certain public school paraprofessionals and teachers from additional educational requirements. Specifically, it allows paraprofessionals who hold a bachelor's degree in education or education studies and have not been out of the classroom for more than ten years to be considered as having met any requirements for additional professional education coursework. Additionally, the bill establishes that teachers with similar qualifications will also be deemed to have satisfied any State Board of Education rules regarding additional coursework necessary for obtaining or renewing teaching certificates, provided they have not been out of the classroom for the same duration.

The bill emphasizes the importance of public school paraprofessionals in the education system, particularly in light of teacher shortages, and aims to enhance their career opportunities through a career development program. It also grants school districts the authority to extend contracts for paraprofessionals who are simultaneously serving as student teachers. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes a declaration of emergency to ensure its immediate implementation upon passage.