SB-0909 Summary

• Authorizes cyber schools (online learning schools) to operate as schools of excellence, requiring certified teachers or teachers under section 1233b to oversee each course, with minimum 1,098 hours of annual educational services and pupil participation.

• Allows noncertificated, nonendorsed individuals to teach computer science, foreign languages, mathematics, biology, chemistry, engineering, physics, robotics, and other state-approved subjects in grades 9-12 or career and technical education programs if they meet one of four qualification pathways.

• Qualification pathways include: holding a doctoral degree and tenure at an accredited institution; holding a bachelor's degree with major in subject area and 2 years occupational experience; holding a professional license/certification for career and technical education; or holding a current teaching certificate from another state.

• Establishes an interim teaching certificate process for alternative teaching program participants who hold a bachelor's degree or higher, pass subject area examinations, complete intensive training, and meet a 3.0 grade point average cohort standard, leading to full Michigan teaching certification after 3 years of satisfactory performance.

• Requires school counselor credential renewal beginning February 6, 2020 to include at least 25 hours each of professional development in college preparation/selection and career counseling, with at least 5 hours covering military career options.