MA S309

Establishes a 21-member Special Commission on Teacher Diversification in Massachusetts, chaired by the Secretary of Education, to study and recommend ways to increase diversity in the teaching workforce

Addresses the disparity between teachers of color (approximately 10% of workforce) and students of color (over 40% of K-12 student body) in Massachusetts

Commission must evaluate existing teacher recruitment programs, review community college-to-university pathways for teaching careers, and compile best practices from local districts and other states

Requires specific focus on gateway cities, including strategies for expanding teacher education access and targeted minority recruitment programs in those communities

Commission must begin work within 60 days of the act's effective date and submit findings, recommendations, and draft legislation within 1 year