ID S1140

Creates the Paraprofessional Pathway to Certification program to address teacher recruitment challenges in Idaho by establishing accelerated routes to certification for eligible paraprofessionals in school districts and charter schools.

Allows school districts or charter schools to sponsor paraprofessionals meeting minimum requirements set by the state board of education, with an accelerated education plan developed collaboratively with the paraprofessional, their mentor, and an approved teacher preparation program.

Requires participating paraprofessionals to work under the supervision and mentoring of a teacher with a standard instructional certificate, with the supervising teacher remaining as the official teacher of record even if the paraprofessional leads classroom instruction.

Mandates district-funded tuition assistance covering a minimum of 3 courses or a maximum of 9 credit hours per qualified participant per year, as identified in the paraprofessional's accelerated education plan.

Directs the state board of education to promulgate rules implementing the program's provisions.