Bill > HB644

This bill modifies provisions related to teacher retirement by expanding opportunities for retired teachers and non-certificated employees to return to work in school districts experiencing staffing shortages. Under the new provisions, retired certificated teachers can teach full-time for up to four years without losing their retirement benefits, subject to specific conditions. Starting no earlier than July 1, 2026, these teachers can work full-time in positions covered by the retirement system, but cannot be employed in administration. The school district must demonstrate a good faith effort to fill positions with non-retired employees, including posting vacancies for at least one month, soliciting applications through various media, and declaring a critical shortage. The hiring school district will pay the employer's contribution rate, and the retiree will be compensated at a salary commensurate with their experience and education level, potentially reduced by the employee retirement contribution rate. The bill also stipulates that such employees will not contribute to the retirement system or earn membership service during this period of employment, and they must be included in the State Directory of New Hires for income and eligibility verification purposes.

Education

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB644&year=2025&code=R