SB1451 Summary

• Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code to create an alternative pathway for paraprofessional educators to obtain a Professional Educator License.

• Requires paraprofessional educators to have at least 5 years of practical classroom experience with a minimum of 100 school days worked in each of those years.

• Mandates pairing with a mentor teacher for a minimum of one year who must observe, guide, support, and provide feedback on the licensee's performance.

• Requires licensees to complete a minimum of 24 professional development hours annually (approved by State Board of Education) or take postsecondary education courses, and complete an approved alternative educator licensure program.