Bill > HB1754

This bill expands the definition of school personnel to include several new professional roles within the educational system, specifically adding licensed physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists, and occupational therapist assistants to the list of recognized school employees. These new categories of professionals will be considered equivalent to certified teachers in terms of legal protections and employment benefits. The bill defines each new role with specific professional qualifications, such as requiring appropriate state licensing, membership in professional associations, and meeting specific educational standards. For example, a licensed physical therapist must be licensed under the Physical Therapy Practice Act and be a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, while an occupational therapist must be licensed under the Occupational Therapy Practice Act and certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. These new definitions expand the understanding of school personnel beyond traditional teaching roles to include specialized health and therapeutic professionals who contribute to students' educational and physical well-being. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving school districts time to prepare for the new classifications.

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1754&Session=2600