Bill > SB3877

This bill, effective July 1, 2026, amends the School Code to establish new requirements for how school districts and other public educational employers can recognize continuing education coursework for teacher salary increases or "salary lane changes" (moving to a higher pay bracket based on additional academic credits). Beginning on that date, any graduate-level coursework used for salary advancement must be from a regionally accredited institution, appear on an official transcript, and result in a letter grade, not just a pass/fail. Furthermore, the coursework must be taught by an "instructor of record" who holds at least a master's degree, is qualified in the subject matter, provides ongoing instructional support, and gives individualized written feedback on the teacher's work. Importantly, this bill does not prevent collective bargaining agreements from negotiating salary structures, as long as any recognized continuing education coursework adheres to these new standards, and the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Board of Higher Education, is authorized to create rules to implement these provisions.