Bill > LD369

This bill makes several changes to education certification rules in Maine. First, it allows the Commissioner of Education to grant extensions to conditional teaching certificates when there are extenuating circumstances, such as public health emergencies or personal illness, provided that the request is accompanied by supporting documentation like a physician's note or a written request from a school superintendent. The bill also expands who can receive a conditional teaching certificate by allowing individuals who have been full-time professors at a state college or university for at least 5 years to be eligible. Additionally, the bill prohibits the Commissioner of Public Safety from charging a fee for fingerprinting applicants seeking a conditional certificate under the new professor provision. These changes aim to provide more flexibility in teacher certification and reduce barriers for professionals with substantial academic experience who are interested in becoming teachers.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=369&snum=132