Posted: | August 13, 2020 12:15 PM |
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From: | Representative Barbara Gleim |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Flexibility for Substitute Teacher Certification |
In the near future, I will introduce legislation to allow for greater flexibility for substitute teacher certification in order to help our school districts during these uncertain times. Companion legislation has been introduced in the PA Senate by Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill. Currently, the requirements to become a day-to-day substitute teacher in the Commonwealth are as follows:
School districts often struggle during normal times to find substitute teachers to fill classrooms, and now, during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 crisis, the need for substitute teachers will become even greater as we transition into the school year. Pennsylvania’s requirements to become a day-to-day substitute teacher and the process for an emergency substitute teacher permit are often lengthy and burdensome. By easing the requirements, more individuals who are innately qualified to help teach our students will be allowed into the classroom in the event of a teacher shortage due to illness or any other factor. We must do everything we can to ensure that our children have every chance of success and this is one small way to make sure those that want to teach have that ability, and that our students are continuing to learn. Please join me in cosponsoring this important piece of legislation. |