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Senate floor splits over allowing non‑certified hires and larger school boards
Summary
Senators debated House Bill 119, which proposes larger school boards in big districts and allows districts to hire teachers or superintendents with outstanding professional qualifications even if not state‑certified. Supporters argued districts need flexibility; critics cautioned about accreditation, classroom management and the value of licensure.
The Senate spent significant floor time debating House Bill 119, a package of public‑education amendments that would change school board sizes and give larger districts latitude to hire superintendents or teachers based on professional qualifications rather than only state certification.
Senator Blackham, speaking for the bill, said it was intended to empower larger districts and noted the measure was worked out with stakeholders. "This bill indicates…
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