MS SB2523

Creates a "Critical Teacher Shortage Area License" effective July 1, 2018, for educators in designated shortage areas with alternative qualification pathways, including a 21 ACT equivalent, Praxis Core achievement, or teaching experience with specific GPA requirements.

Requires school districts using the critical shortage area license to provide a minimum of 50 additional hours of professional development during the first three years of employment and assign a veteran on-site mentor teacher during the first two years.

Allows retired teachers with at least 25 years of creditable service to be reemployed as teachers in critical shortage areas while continuing to receive their retirement allowance plus beginning teacher salary.

Establishes procedures for the State Department of Education to collaborate with universities and school administrators to develop alternative licensing procedures aimed at reducing uncertified teachers in shortage areas by 75 percent.

Permits school districts in critical shortage areas to request written authorization from the State Department of Education at the conclusion of each academic term to employ educators with critical teacher shortage area licenses.