HB 2548 Summary

• Amends 70 O.S. 2011, Section 6-187 to allow non-native English speakers to take subject area competency examinations in their native language if they are employed or have been offered employment in a foreign language immersion program by a school district.

• Requires that if a non-native English speaker who previously passed the subject area examination in their native language later seeks additional certification but is no longer employed in a foreign language immersion program, any new examination for additional certification areas must be taken in English.

• Directs the State Board of Education to issue a restricted license or certificate to teachers who completed a subject area competency examination in their native language, limiting them to teaching only in foreign language immersion programs.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2014, with an emergency clause declaring the act takes effect immediately upon passage and approval.