This bill amends the existing laws regarding the certification of teachers in Rhode Island, specifically addressing the issuance of certificates and the requirements for certification. It stipulates that individuals cannot be denied certification solely based on their scores from standardized teacher examinations, provided they successfully complete an assessment established by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE).

Effective July 1, 2025, all currently certified teachers will have their certifications automatically extended for three (3) or five (5) years without any fees or penalties. The bill also waives application fees for initial teacher certification and Praxis examination fees for a three-year period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028, to encourage teacher recruitment.

Additionally, the bill allows the Rhode Island Department of Education to issue certificates without examination to qualified individuals and enables teachers with at least three (3) years of certified experience to acquire additional certifications through examination or content coursework. It mandates the department to review and revise its rules governing teacher and administrator licensure to create multiple pathways for certification, including recognizing non-traditional education and work experience as valid qualifications. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance teacher recruitment and streamline the certification process in Rhode Island.