DE SB16

Implements recommendations from the Senate's Teacher Hiring Task Force to address late teacher hiring in Delaware school districts.

Creates an "estimated unit count" to be calculated by March 30 each year based on projected September enrollment, allowing school districts to plan hiring and make employment offers to new teachers in late spring and early summer.

Guarantees school districts receive unit-based state funding equal to at least 98% of the estimated unit count, protecting districts from funding shortfalls if actual enrollment falls below projections.

Requires the Department of Education to post teacher hiring date information on its website, conduct randomized audits of hiring data accuracy, and promulgate uniform terminology regulations within 120 days.

Mandates a report to the General Assembly and Governor by December 31, 2011 on the estimated unit count's impact on early teacher hiring, with recommendations for additional incentives if needed; Act expires April 1, 2012 unless reauthorized.