Bill > LD1495

This bill transfers the responsibility for developing teacher certification standards from the State Board of Education to the Professional Standards Board (PSB), a 22-member board appointed by the Governor. The bill makes several key changes to how educator certification is managed in the state. Under the new framework, the PSB will be responsible for establishing certification standards, rules, and guidelines for various educational positions including teachers, administrators, educational specialists, school psychologists, and educational technicians. The bill also requires that PSB members nominated after July 1, 2026, must be reviewed by the legislative education committee and confirmed by the full Legislature. Additionally, PSB members will now be entitled to compensation and reimbursement for expenses, and the Department of Education will be required to provide staff assistance, meeting facilities, and materials to support the board's work. Members of the PSB will include representatives from different educational roles, such as teachers from elementary, middle, and high schools, educational specialists, administrators, and one public member. The legislation aims to streamline and professionalize the educator certification process by centralizing standards and oversight within the Professional Standards Board. This bill will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1495&snum=132