The teacher shortage in Pennsylvania has reached critical levels. According to the 2023 Penn State Center for Evaluation and Education Policy Analysis, about 9,500 teachers left the profession in 2022-2023 and another 8,300 in 2023-2024.
In order to address our teacher shortage, the House Education Committee will be considering a package of bills intended to reduce barriers to employment, create flexibility for employers, and expand the pool of those eligible to become professional educators.
My legislation will increase the length of time that future teachers and Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators can utilize an intern certification from three years to five years. Extending the intern certification period allows aspiring educators the flexibility to balance work, school, and other personal commitments. This flexibility is particularly crucial for individuals who may have other professional responsibilities, such as individuals looking to make a career change into education.
My legislation also changes the name of the teacher and CTE intern certifications to the “Second Career Certification” and “CTE Second Career Certification,” respectively. This name change reflects the intent of the certification: to efficiently bring individuals with diverse skills and experiences, including those pursuing a second career, into the classroom.
By co-sponsoring this bill, you too can play a key role in providing access to the teaching profession for a wider range of qualified candidates.
 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1603 (May 05, 2025): P.L.30, No.14