INDIANAPOLIS — Hoosier teachers testified against a new bill Wednesday that would throw out some of their job's regulations.
Senate Bill 486 would no longer require teachers to take several training courses that are currently mandatory. It would also eliminate the need for union representatives to be present when talking about classroom concerns.
Bill co-author Sen. Linda Rogers (R-Granger) believes it would allow teachers to speak their mind more freely.
"The intention of this section is to allow any teacher to have a discussion with the school employer about any subject area that affects their role as a teacher, not just the 16 specific items that are in current code and not just with the exclusive representative," Rogers said.
"The majority of the bill works to remove teacher voice from the decision making process. This bill serves to limit teacher voice and involvement in important students and staff concerns and provides an avenue for unchecked decision making," Samantha Pierce, a teacher in Greater Clark County Schools, said.
The bill would still require training for new teachers, but allows for flexibility on re-certification, opening up choices for current teachers.
No educators spoke in favor of the bill, but some were open to discussion surrounding the elimination of certain yearly training requirements.
The Senate Education and Career Development Committee will vote next week on whether or not to move the bill forward to the full Senate.
-
Indy animal rescues see increase in abandoned dogs around the holidays
Lucci’s House is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of Bully Breeds in Indianapolis with a network of 73 foster homes. This year, 157 dogs were taken in, of those 87 were from IACS.
Indy homeless shelters see record numbers amid frigid temps
Local homeless shelters are seeing an increased need this year as colder weather drives more of the unhoused community to seek shelter.
Carmel residents reflect on affordability as city looks back on 2025 progress
Carmel has been ranked the number one place to live in the nation for 2025 by neighborhood search site Niche, as the Hamilton County city continues to attract new residents.
One year later, Sheridan adds 2,000 residents after township reorganization
The small town of Sheridan has grown by 2,000 residents after successfully merging with Adams Township, but critics say tax increases could be on the way.
