Requires State Board of Education to authorize alternate route to expedite teacher certification of persons employed as paraprofessionals in school districts.

This bill (S 1064) would create a faster path for paraprofessionals currently working in New Jersey school districts to become certified teachers. It requires the State Board of Education to establish an alternate certification program that counts their existing classroom experience (like tutoring) toward student teaching requirements, allows them to keep their current job while completing training, and permits GPA waivers for qualified candidates. The program must be developed with input from education stakeholders, including teacher unions and school administrators. Note: The bill was introduced in the Senate on January 9, 2024, but was immediately withdrawn.