Senator CAMPSEN proposed the following amendment (419R026.SP.GEC):

Amend the bill, as and if amended, PART VI, page 57, line 36, by adding an appropriately numbered new SECTION to read:

/ SECTION_ . Chapter 25, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:

"ARTICLE 9

Teacher Bill of Rights

Section 59-25-910. (A) All certified public school teachers in South Carolina have a right to:

(1) have their professional judgment and discretion concerning disciplinary action or instructional decisions in the classroom, made in accordance with written school and district policies provided to faculty, be fully respected by school and district officials;

(2) take appropriate disciplinary measures, including the removal of persistently disruptive students, pursuant to school and district policies as referenced in item (1), to facilitate a learning environment built upon a mutual culture of respect between teachers and their assigned students;

( 3) work in a safe, secure, and orderly environment that is conducive to learning and free from recognized dangers, hazards, or threats that are causing or likely to cause serious injury or disability;

( 4) an unencumbered daily planning time, equal to no less of one quarter of their assigned instructional time, free from meetings, duties, or requirements incompatible with the effective planning of instruction;

( 5) be free of excessive and burdensome paperwork related to disciplinary actions, state or district evaluation procedures, and other administrative inquiries that prevent fulfillment of the teacher's primary directive to implement effective instruction for their students;

(6) additional compensation for work time required above and beyond stated contracted days and established work day parameters for duties associated with their responsibilities as teachers;

( 7) receive, as teachers under induction contracts, leadership and support from school and district personnel, including the assignment of qualified mentors who:

(a) commit to helping them become competent and confident professionals in the classroom; and

(b) offer support and assistance as needed to meet performance standards and professional expectations; and

( 8) file a declaratory judgment action if schools or school districts establish policies or implement standard expectations of behavior that prevent teachers from exercising the rights stated herein.

(B) No monetary damages may be awarded for violations of subsection (A). The court may award attorneys' fees at its discretion." /