SC H5171

Requires all South Carolina school districts to adopt and implement uniform written policies governing substitute teacher use across all instructional settings, including general education and special education classrooms.

Mandates that districts make reasonable efforts to provide substitute teachers or qualified personnel for special education classrooms when regular instructional staff are absent, consistent with coverage policies for other classrooms.

Prohibits school districts from maintaining policies or practices that exclude special education classrooms or services from substitute teacher coverage.

Does not require substitute teachers in special education settings to hold special education certification unless otherwise mandated by state or federal law.

Takes effect August 1, 2026.