This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by adjusting the salaries of Special Education Aides and self-contained special education teachers, as well as defining and addressing critical vacancies within the education system. Specifically, it proposes to align the salaries of Aide II and Aide V positions with those of Early Childhood Classroom Assistant Teachers, with an additional 5% increase for Aide V. Furthermore, it mandates a 10% pay increase for self-contained special education teachers. The bill also introduces a definition for "critical vacancy," which is described as a position essential for maintaining student success and compliance with certification standards.

Additionally, the bill requires that in instances of a critical vacancy, board staff certified in the relevant subject area must temporarily fill the position until a permanent hire is made. This provision is intended to ensure that critical roles are filled promptly to support student needs. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the compensation for special education personnel and ensure that critical teaching positions are adequately staffed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18A-2-2b, 18A-4-5c
Committee Substitute: 18A-2-2b, 18A-4-5c