MS HB1144

Establishes an Office of Educator Misconduct Evaluations within the State Department of Education to handle infractions, violations, and conduct hearings related to educator and administrator licensure and ethics violations.

Makes approval of educator preparation programs subject to a process and schedule determined by the State Board of Education rather than automatic approval.

Maintains the Commission on Teacher and Administrator Education, Certification and Licensure and Development with 15 members appointed by the State Board of Education to set standards and make recommendations on educator licensure and professional development.

Preserves existing licensure routes including Standard License - Approved Program Route, Teach Mississippi Institute nontraditional route for grades 7-12, Special Licenses for expert citizens and transitional bilingual education, and reciprocity provisions for teachers licensed in other states.

Effective July 1, 2012.