WI SB604

Beginning July 1, 2027, teachers and administrators at private schools participating in parental choice programs or the Special Needs Scholarship Program must hold a license or permit issued by the Department of Public Instruction.

Teachers who teach only rabbinical studies courses and administrators at schools that prepare pupils in rabbinical studies are exempt from the licensure requirement.

Teachers and administrators employed for at least 5 consecutive years before July 1, 2027 who lack the required license may apply for a temporary, nonrenewable waiver valid until July 1, 2032, with a plan to obtain licensure.

Current law requires choice school teachers and administrators to have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution but does not require DPI licensure; the Special Needs Scholarship Program has no current staffing requirements.