The bill S. 88 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 59-25-60, which allows individuals applying for an educator certificate to receive credit for prior work experience that is in or related to the content field of the certificate. Specifically, the State Department of Education will award one year of experience credit for every two years of relevant full-time work experience, which will be used solely for advancement on the teacher salary schedule. Additionally, existing certificate holders who entered the teaching profession before July 1, 2025, can also submit a verification form to receive similar credit for their prior work experience, leading to potential adjustments in their pay for the current school year.

The bill clarifies that while individuals can receive this credit for salary advancement, it does not alter any existing requirements for obtaining an educator certificate, and the awarded experience cannot be used for purposes other than salary advancement. Furthermore, the experience credited under this section will not count as service credit for state retirement or health plans. The State Department of Education is required to provide the necessary verification form within ninety days of the bill's approval by the Governor, and the act will take effect upon such approval.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 59-25-60
Latest Version: 59-25-60