HB5136 Summary

• Modifies teacher dismissal procedures for reductions in force occurring during 2011-2012 school term and later, establishing four groupings based on contractual status, performance evaluation ratings, and length of service, with teachers in lower groupings dismissed first.

• Requires written notice of honorable dismissal at least 45 days before end of school term (reduced from 60 days) and mandates public hearing when dismissals exceed 5 notices or 150% of average dismissals from prior 3 years.

• Creates joint committee composed of equal school board and teacher representatives to develop teacher evaluation plans incorporating student growth data as significant factor, with Open Meetings Act exemptions for committee meetings.

• Extends recall rights for dismissed teachers in groupings 3-4 to one calendar year (two years if dismissals exceed 15% of certified positions), and provides limited recall rights for grouping 2 teachers with single "Needs Improvement" rating.

• Adds hearing officer selection procedures for teacher dismissal hearings for cause, including State Board of Education master list requirements, cost-sharing arrangements, and timelines requiring hearings commence within 75 days and conclude within 120 days.