Bill > HB170

This bill amends Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 161.048 to expand the requirements for Option 9 alternative teacher certification programs by allowing employment in substitute teaching to qualify as part of the required residency or paraprofessional component. Option 9 is an expedited certification program that enables a college or university to partner with a school district to help candidates obtain a bachelor's degree and initial teaching certification within three school years. The program typically includes a work experience component where candidates are employed within the participating district to gain practical experience alongside their reduced coursework. By explicitly adding substitute teaching as a potential form of qualifying employment, the bill provides more flexibility for candidates seeking alternative certification, potentially making it easier for individuals to enter the teaching profession while gaining hands-on classroom experience. The change supports the broader legislative intent of creating alternative pathways to teacher certification that can help address teacher shortages and recruit talented individuals from diverse backgrounds into the education profession.