House Bill 1888 amends Tennessee Code Annotated to introduce a waiver for educator licensure requirements for individuals lacking a bachelor's degree but possessing significant teaching experience. Specifically, the state board of education can grant a waiver to applicants with at least five consecutive years of full-time teaching at an approved church-related or private school. Applicants must provide verification of their teaching performance, documentation of instructional duties similar to licensed educators, and evidence of professional development training. Additionally, they must consent to a criminal history check. The waiver allows employment for up to three years, subject to annual performance evaluations, but does not confer a practitioner teacher license.

The bill also modifies existing laws regarding employment in public schools, stipulating that individuals must present a valid educator license or credential unless granted a waiver under the new section. This change is reflected in amendments to several sections of the Tennessee Code, ensuring that the waiver is recognized in the context of employment and compensation for teaching positions. The state board is tasked with establishing the review process for waiver applications, criteria for evaluating applicants, and conditions for renewal or revocation of the waiver. The act will take effect upon becoming law for rule promulgation purposes, with full implementation set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 49-5-101, 49-5-403, 49-6-201(b)(4), 49-6-201, 49-6-404