Bill > AB109

This bill modifies the rules for issuing lifetime teaching licenses, specifically addressing licenses for teaching American Indian languages. Currently, individuals can obtain a lifetime license after successfully completing 6 semesters of teaching experience. The bill introduces a new provision that allows federally recognized American Indian tribes or bands to have a say in approving lifetime licenses for teaching their specific language. Under the new rules, if a tribe submits a written notice to the Department of Public Instruction (DPI), the department must notify the tribe when someone applies for a lifetime license to teach their language. The tribe will then have the opportunity to evaluate the applicant and determine whether they are highly skilled in the language. If the tribe endorses the applicant, the DPI may grant a tier III lifetime license; if not, the tribe can still endorse the applicant for a tier II license renewal. This approach gives tribal governments more control over who can teach their language, ensuring that instructors meet the tribe's standards of language proficiency and cultural knowledge.

Education

Joint Legislative Council (Other)

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab109