Bill > HB4427

This bill modifies regulations concerning adjunct teachers, who are individuals with distinguished qualifications in their field but may not hold standard teaching certificates. Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, these adjunct teachers will be prohibited from teaching core curriculum subjects like math, English, science, and social studies to students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. However, school districts can apply for a waiver from the State Board of Education to continue employing adjunct teachers in these roles if the teacher has completed or is completing professional development in the science of reading. Furthermore, starting in the 2027-2028 school year, adjunct teachers can generally only be employed for a maximum of five years, with the possibility of an additional five-year waiver if the district submits a waiver application detailing the teacher's distinguished qualifications. The bill also clarifies that adjunct teachers without a valid teaching certificate are not considered "teachers" under state law. Additionally, the bill updates provisions related to alternative certification programs, making minor adjustments to eligibility criteria and removing a directive for the State Board of Education to promulgate specific rules regarding adjunct teachers, as those requirements are now addressed elsewhere. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2026.