Senate Bill 87 proposes amendments to the current law regarding the issuance of lifetime teaching licenses for American Indian languages. The bill introduces a new provision that allows federally recognized American Indian tribes or bands to evaluate applicants for a lifetime license to teach their associated language in an American Indian language program. Specifically, if a tribe opts to exercise this evaluation option, the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) cannot issue a lifetime license unless the tribe confirms that the applicant is qualified. This change is reflected in the creation of a new statute, 118.19 (18) (bp), which outlines the process for tribal evaluation and endorsement.

Additionally, the bill amends existing language in statute 118.19 (18) (bg) 1, clarifying that the department may issue a lifetime license only under certain conditions, specifically when the tribal government has not opted for the evaluation process. The bill also establishes a new administrative code, PI 34.055 (3), detailing the notification process between DPI and tribal governments regarding applicants for tier III lifetime licenses. This ensures that tribal governments are actively involved in determining the qualifications of individuals seeking to teach their languages, thereby enhancing the role of tribal authority in educational matters related to their languages.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 118.19(18)(bg)1, 118.19