Bill > SB87

This bill modifies the process for issuing lifetime teaching licenses for American Indian language instructors. Currently, the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) can issue a lifetime license to an individual who has completed 6 semesters of teaching experience. The bill introduces a new provision that gives federally recognized American Indian tribes the right to evaluate and approve individuals seeking a lifetime license to teach their specific tribal language. If a tribe submits a written notice to the DPI, the department can only issue a lifetime license for teaching that tribe's language if the tribe explicitly notifies the DPI that the individual is qualified. The bill requires the DPI to notify the tribal government when someone applies for a lifetime license and allows the tribe to either endorse the applicant for a tier III lifetime license or recommend them for a tier II license renewal based on their assessment of the applicant's language skills. This change gives tribal governments more control over who can receive a lifetime license to teach their language, ensuring that only highly skilled individuals are granted such credentials.

Business and Industry

Joint Legislative Council (Other)

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/sen/bill/sb87