SENATE FILE 136

BY  McKINLEY

A BILL FOR

An Act relating to alternative practitioner preparation pilot programs to prepare individuals to teach elementary and secondary students.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF IOWA:

   Section 1.  Section 256.7, Code 2011, is amended by adding the following new subsection:
   NEW SUBSECTION.  31.  Adopt rules and, by January 1, 2012, implement a procedure for the approval of alternative practitioner preparation pilot programs for individuals who have not completed a practitioner preparation program approved in accordance with subsection 3, but who have considerable life experiences, career achievements, and academic backgrounds as preparation for teaching students in one or more grade levels from prekindergarten through grade twelve.
EXPLANATION
   This bill directs the state board of education to adopt rules and, by January 1, 2012, implement a procedure for the approval of alternative practitioner preparation pilot programs that prepare a person, who has not completed a traditional practitioner preparation program, to teach students in one or more grade levels from prekindergarten through grade 12.