On July 1st, 2019, Sen. Tom McInnis’ (R-Richmond) Senate Bill 219 was signed into state law. Part one of this legislation will modify teacher licensing requirements ensuring that excellent teachers are kept in the classroom without the fear of losing their jobs after only 2 years due to testing that is not reflective of their abilities. This legislation will allow principals and superintendents to sign an affidavit assuring the quality of the teacher whose experience demonstrates that he or she is highly qualified to be in the classroom. Part two of this bill will create a transitional license (TL), which will be a three-year nonrenewable license issued to individuals with a current license in good standing in another state. This legislation has been vetted by all interested parties and the bill has undergone changes to ensure military spouses are protected as well. This bill will help combat the teacher shortage that exists in rural North Carolina.
“I am grateful to all the stakeholders who have assisted with this bill. Senate Bill 219 Teacher Licensure Modification, will allow local superintendents and school principals to keep qualified teachers in the classroom as they work to pass the licensing requirements.”Said Senator Tom McInnis. “I believe that this bill will help to stem the tide of the teacher shortage that exists in every district. This is something that has been especially devastating to rural North Carolina schools. I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this bill.”
