HB5546 Summary

• Amends the Illinois School Code regarding teacher surveys, performance evaluations, and dismissal procedures.

• Changes school climate survey administration from annual to biennial (every 2 years) and allows school districts to use alternative pre-approved surveys instead of the state-selected instrument, with teacher and school board agreement.

• Modifies teacher dismissal procedures for economic reasons to create four grouping categories based on contractual status and performance ratings, with teachers dismissed in order from Grouping 1 through 4.

• Establishes a joint committee process for school districts and teachers to agree on alternative dismissal criteria and definitions for top-performing teachers.

• Provides recall rights for dismissed teachers, with teachers in Groupings 3-4 eligible for first consideration, and certain Grouping 2 teachers eligible if positions open within February 1 of the following school year.