HB 2885 Summary

• Changes terminology from "license/licensure" to "certificate/certification" throughout Oklahoma education statutes relating to teacher preparation and requirements.

• Establishes paid teacher internship programs and modifies residency program requirements; makes residency program optional for school districts in 2014-2015, then mandatory beginning 2015-2016.

• Directs State Board of Education to conduct educator supply-and-demand studies every three years in cooperation with higher education institutions to identify teacher shortage areas.

• Modifies alternative placement teaching certificate requirements and removes certain certification requirements for out-of-state institution graduates.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2014, with an emergency declaration for immediate implementation.