This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to clarify the duration a substitute teacher holding a restricted substitute teacher permit can serve in a long-term position. Specifically, it allows these substitute teachers, who possess an associate's degree, to exceed the current limit of 10 consecutive days in a long-term assignment if no other short-term or long-term substitutes are available. However, if there are substitutes available who have bid on the job, the restricted substitute's position will be terminated.

Additionally, the bill extends the expiration date for the provisions regarding the employment of retired teachers as substitutes in areas of critical need and shortage from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2026. This extension aims to address the ongoing shortage of qualified substitute teachers and allows for the continued use of retired teachers in critical areas, provided certain conditions are met. The bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring that schools have adequate staffing while maintaining the integrity of the teaching profession.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18A-2-3