MS SB2382

Creates a "Critical Teacher Shortage Area License" allowing educators to teach in designated critical shortage areas with alternative qualifications, including those with an 18 ACT score (with 2.75 GPA), passing Praxis Core scores, or who are retired teachers receiving full retirement benefits.

Requires school districts employing holders of critical teacher shortage area licenses 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 who have been retired for one year to be reemployed as teachers in critical shortage areas while continuing to receive their retirement allowance plus a beginning teacher's salary.

Directs the State Department of Education to collaborate with universities and school administrators to develop alternative licensing procedures specifically for critical teacher shortage areas, with a goal of reducing uncertified teachers by 75%.

Effective July 1, 2021.