PA House Passes Bill Granting Permanent Substitute Role to Retired Teachers
The Pennsylvania state House passed a bill before their summer break allowing schools to hire retired teachers as substitutes permanently. The legislation, introduced by Rep. James Struzzi, R-Indiana, extends a pandemic-era law that provided flexibility in addressing staffing shortages, which expired at the end of the 2022-23 school year. The bill permits student teachers, retired teachers, and individuals with temporary teaching certificates and substitute permits to work as substitutes, without a restriction on the number of days they can be in a classroom. Retired educators and staff would be allowed to work in public schools for more than 20 days without affecting their pension. The aim of the bill is to help alleviate staffing shortages in schools and provide students with the valuable knowledge and experience that retirees can bring. The bill will now move to the state Senate for consideration, but they are not scheduled to return to Harrisburg until mid-September, after the school year has begun.
Pennsylvania Faces Budget Impasse Over Private School Funding
Weeks into the new fiscal year, Pennsylvania is still without a spending plan due to an impasse in budget negotiations. The state’s divided Legislature, comprising a Republican-controlled Senate and a Democratic-controlled House of Representatives, has been unable to reach an agreement. The main point of disagreement is the funding of private school tuition vouchers, also known as lifeline scholarships, with taxpayer dollars.
The legislative deadlock has delayed the budget approval process, and both chambers need to return to Harrisburg to sign the bills before they can be sent to the governor’s desk for approval. However, neither chamber is set to return until September.
A prolonged budget impasse could have significant consequences for state and county-based programs and institutions, including K-12 schools. Since school districts rely on state funding, they may face financial stress and potential disruptions to their own budgets.
Expanded Rights and Protections for Pregnant School Employees
As of June 2023, pregnant school employees in the education sector have gained increased rights and protections at work. The new measures aim to ensure fair treatment and accommodations for pregnant women, fostering a more inclusive work environment.
Under the updated policies, schools and educational institutions are obligated to provide reasonable accommodations that enable pregnant individuals to perform their job duties effectively and safely. These accommodations may involve adjustments to work schedules, seating arrangements, or lighter physical tasks.
Additionally, pregnant school employees now benefit from strengthened job protections. Schools are prohibited from discriminating against them based on their pregnancy status, preventing adverse actions or termination due to pregnancy.
However, it’s important to note that these new rights do not automatically guarantee paid leave for pregnant educators. The provisions primarily focus on ensuring a supportive work environment and protection against discrimination, rather than addressing compensation during pregnancy-related absences.
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