AL HB353

Amends Section 16-1-33 of the Alabama Code to establish detailed requirements for local school board reduction-in-force (layoff) policies for instructional employees.

Prohibits consideration of seniority except when comparing two equally rated employees, and prohibits consideration of employee degrees, credentials, and pay scale location.

Requires individual employee performance ratings with objective evidence of increased student achievement to be weighted at least 50 percent in layoff decisions, or if unavailable, alternative criteria must be weighted more heavily than performance ratings.

Permits boards to consider additional factors including demonstrated pedagogical skills, classroom management skills, contributions to the school, and any record of misconduct or excessive absences.

Authorizes the State Superintendent of Education to develop a model reduction-in-force policy and requires all policies to comply with state and federal antidiscrimination laws; effective the first day of the third month following passage.