AR HB1609

Extends the maximum period an unlicensed teacher may teach in the same class from 30 to 60 consecutive school days during a school year.

Adds "Aspiring Teacher permit" as a new licensure exception allowing teachers to work for up to one academic year or two consecutive semesters without full licensure.

Modifies provisional license validity to extend for the entire period an applicant participates in an alternative educator preparation program, plus up to three additional years while working toward standard licensure.

Repeals the Licensed Personnel Testing Program (Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapter 17, Subchapter 6).

Changes long-term substitute teacher definition from 31+ consecutive days to 61+ consecutive days, and extends the limit on substitute instruction from 30 to 60 consecutive school days before requiring a waiver.