Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that eliminates teacher tenure and establishes 3-year contracts, effective July 1, 2013.

Highlights:

• Repeals continuing contracts for teachers who have passed their probationary period and replaces continuing contracts with 3-year contracts (Sec. 1).

• Extends the probationary period for school supervisors and teachers from 3 years to 5 years (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits a school board from implementing a reduction in workforce that is made solely on the basis of seniority, and requires the board to consider the performance evaluations of teachers affected by the reduction in workforce (Sec. 1).

• Requires annual teacher evaluations to include student academic progress as a “significant component” (Sec. 1).

• Requires teachers who attained contract status prior to the 2013-2014 school year to be formally evaluated at least once every 3 years, informally during each year that they are not formally evaluated, and more often as deemed necessary by the principal (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that any teacher, principal, assistant principal or supervisor who successfully completed the probationary period and achieved continuing contract status by the first day of the 2013-2014 school year shall continue to have continuing contract status provided that he or she displays good behavior, competent service, and remains employed in the same school district (Sec. 4).

• Extends the deadline for informing teachers of whether or not their contracts have been renewed from April 15 to June 15 of any year (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text