Panel advances licensure-waiver bill for experienced private-school teachers amid strong criticism

House Bill 1888, carried by Representative Stevens, would authorize the state board of education to waive educator licensure requirements for an individual without a bachelor’s degree if the director of schools or public charter leader notifies the LEA and the candidate has at least 10 years of teaching experience in a category 1, 2, or 3 private school.

Representative Stevens said the waiver is intended to address teacher shortages by allowing qualified, experienced instructors from private schools to teach in public classrooms when districts cannot secure a qualified teacher. The amended measure requires a waiver applicant to complete training during the waiver period on classroom management, serving students with disabilities and English-language learners, and the teacher code of ethics; it also requires assignment of a mentor.

Several members vocally opposed the concept. Representative Johnson argued private-school teaching experience is not comparable to public-school experience and that “throwing them in and then training them is not the answer,” adding that private schools often exclude or remove students with challenging behaviors, while public teachers are trained to work with a wider range of needs. Representative Mackenzie called the waiver a “slap in the face” to public-school teachers and urged maintaining standards. Supporters said the bill includes training, mentoring and conditions designed to protect students and that the board needs staff to process applications (fiscal note of approximately $119,000 first year, $84,500 second year was discussed).

The committee voted to advance HB 1888 to Government Operations by a recorded tally of 12 ayes, 4 nays, and 2 present not voting. Members asked for further fiscal details and noted the mentoring and training provisions in the bill.