MS HB69

Grants one-year exemption from passing a scientifically research-based reading instruction assessment for Standard License - Nontraditional Teaching Route applicants through Teach For America, effective July 1, 2016.

Requires Teach For America participants employed in public elementary schools to achieve a passing score on the board-approved reading instruction assessment within one year of hire.

Provides blanket exemption from the reading assessment requirement for Teach For America participants already employed in public elementary schools for one or more years as of July 1, 2016.

Allows participants who fail the reading assessment to continue teaching at middle or high school grade levels at the discretion of the State Board of Education and local school board, rather than automatic dismissal.