The bill amends Section 16-13-3 of the General Laws in Chapter 16-13, titled "Teachers Tenure," to address the dismissal of tenured teachers in cases of gross misconduct towards students. It establishes that if a teacher is to be dismissed for gross misconduct, the notice of dismissal shall not be subject to any deadline nor constrained by any calendar date, allowing for immediate action when necessary. The bill defines gross misconduct to include a range of inappropriate behaviors, such as any sexual or romantic interactions with students, physical violence, crossing professional boundaries, using discriminatory language, and involving students in illegal activities.

Additionally, the bill introduces a provision regarding the probationary period and tenure after probation, allowing teachers who attain tenure and later take on administrative roles to have an unpaid leave of absence of up to three years to serve in such positions without losing their tenured status. Upon completion of their administrative role, these teachers can return to their previous tenured positions without interruption of service for seniority or retirement purposes. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2933: 16-13-3