Bill > SB922

This bill modifies the Private Academic Schools Act to provide more flexibility in the licensing process for private academic schools. The bill allows schools to submit license applications before finalizing a physical facility by including a planning statement with details about the potential site and a timeline for securing the location. Similarly, schools can submit applications with staffing projections and proposed teachers who meet qualification requirements, with the intention of formally hiring them upon receiving licensure. The bill introduces a new provision for conditional approval of initial licensure, which allows the State Board of Private Academic Schools to grant a six-month provisional license if an application substantially complies with existing regulations, even if some components are still pending, such as formal staff hiring or facility inspection. Additionally, the bill removes a previous one-year limitation on existing rules and regulations and requires the board to establish new rules within 14 months regarding teacher qualifications, including provisions for emergency and substitute permits. The bill aims to streamline the licensing process for private academic schools while maintaining educational standards and providing schools with more operational flexibility.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=922