The Committee on Education and Public Works proposes the following Amendment No. 1 to H. 3465 (COUNCIL\WAB\3465C001.RT.WAB21):

Reference is to the bill as introduced.

Amend the bill, as and if amended, by striking all after the enacting words and inserting:

/ SECTION 1. (A)(1) There is created a study committee to examine the teacher credentialing requirements in this State, the correlation between various quality levels of teacher credentials and student outcomes, and recommend policies to strengthen these credentialing requirements, teacher education programs, and the distribution of teachers with higher credentials in districts based on socioeconomic and geographic factors. The committee shall also examine the need for veteran teachers to continue to meet certificate renewal requirements and the benefits and challenges of the State requiring and funding National Board Teacher Certification.

(2) The study committee shall recommend policies to support the development of higher standards for teacher credentialing and making teachers with such credentials available in areas of greatest need. It also shall recommend if certification requirements should be required of veteran teachers and, if not, what type of professional development should be mandated. The committee shall also report its finding as to issues the General Assembly should consider regarding National Board Certification.

(B)(1) The study committee is composed of eleven members, consisting of:

(a) two members of the Senate appointed by the Chair of the Senate Education Committee;

(b) two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Chair of the House Education and Public Works Committee;

(c) two early childhood education, elementary education, or secondary education scholars or faculty members from institutions of higher learning in this State who have research and teaching experience in understanding teacher credentialing standards and the correlation between teacher credentials and student outcomes, one of which shall by appointed by the Chair of the Senate Education Committee and one appointed by the Chair of the House Education and Public Works Committee upon recommendation of the South Carolina Education Dean 's Alliance;

(d) three parents of public school students appointed by the Governor; and

(e) two members with expertise in teacher certification appointed by the State Superintendent of Education.

(2) In making appointments to the study committee, consideration should be given to ensure the inclusion of diverse racial, ethnic, and gender perspectives representing districts throughout the State.

(3) Vacancies in the study committee 's membership must be filled in the manner of original appointment.

(4) Members of the committee shall serve without per diem, mileage, or other compensation generally provided to members of boards and commissions.

(C) The Senate Education Committee and the House Education and Public Works Committee shall provide appropriate staffing for the study committee.

(D) The study committee shall provide a report with recommendations to the General Assembly before January 1, 2022. The study committee shall dissolve upon providing its report to the General Assembly or on January 1, 2022, whichever occurs first.

SECTION2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor. /