Honorable Florence Shapiro, Chair, Senate Committee on Education
FROM:
John S. O'Brien, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB2206 by Van de Putte (Relating to certification of an educator in Texas who is certified in another state or country.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would require the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) to issue a certificate to an applicant who meets degree requirements, passes the certification examination or a similar examination administered in another state or country, and who holds a credential from another state or country to teach mathematics, science, special education, bilingual education, or another subject area identified as a shortage area. Individuals issued certificates under the provisions of the bill would be required to pass the appropriate certification exam required for certification in Texas within two years of the date the initial certificate was issued.
The Texas Education Agency would be required to develop procedures and guidance for school districts hiring teachers based on the provisions of this bill. Modifications to the automated system to issue certificates would be required. These activities could be accomplished with existing resources.
Local Government Impact
School districts could hire teachers who were issued certificates under the provisions of this bill and count them as highly qualified teachers for NCLB purposes.