Rep. Cecelie Williams

Maddy summaryHB 1153 modifies Missouri's teaching certification process by creating new pathways to earn licenses and expanding options for educators. It establishes an 18-hour online teacher preparation program (approved by the state) for bachelor's degree holders seeking initial certification, though public schools aren't required to accept this certificate. The bill also introduces a two-year provisional certification for those who haven't passed required exams, allowing renewal through classroom evaluations or exam success, and adds a "visiting scholars" program for professionals with industry credentials teaching in hard-to-staff subjects or schools. These changes directly affect new teachers, school districts hiring educators, and teacher preparation programs, while restricting certain certificates (like for ABCTE holders) from early childhood or special education roles.