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.
-
Sunday service returns to downtown Bloomington church months after serious fire
First Christian Church held services inside its Great Hall on Christmas Eve. It was the first time they worshiped inside the church since it caught fire on Oct. 1.
Autism warning signs: When behavioral changes signal need for evaluation
Hopebridge is headquartered in Indianapolis and operates as one of Indiana's largest autism therapy providers, with more than 20 locations throughout the state and centers in nine other states.
High schoolers coached by Phillip Rivers to attend Colts-Jaguars game Sunday
The Colts organization helped arrange tickets for Rivers' former St. Michael Catholic High School players to attend the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Noblesville PD issues warning to impaired drivers during holidays
With New Year's just around the corner, Noblesville law enforcement is making their message clear to those who choose to get behind the wheel impaired.
