Bill > H441

This bill proposes to establish a performance review program for teachers seeking their initial license, particularly for those who already hold a preliminary license and are working in a school district without an approved program for initial licensure. The program aims to attract and retain qualified teachers by offering an alternative pathway to full licensure, requiring candidates to have at least three years of experience, relevant professional development, recommendations from principals, and in some cases, a competency review. Importantly, any fees associated with this performance review program, such as application and tuition costs, will be fully reimbursed by the school district where the teacher is employed or waived entirely by the department, which refers to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).