Senate Committee Moves Substitute Teacher Bill

The Senate Education Committee on Monday approved a bill that would limit the amount of time that substitutes may serve in the classroom in any one district. The legislation, S-435, would limit the time a substitute can serve to 20 days, with an extension of another 20 days if the education commissioner approves.

NJSBA testified that it saw the need to limit the amount of time that a substitute could serve, but was concerned about preserving flexibility for districts, particularly where there may be unforeseen circumstances, or when the substitute’s assignment becomes longer because of unexpected changes for the teacher on leave. In addition, recruiting a teacher may take longer than expected, particularly for subject areas that are difficult to fill.

NJSBA called for amendments to allow the education commissioner to grant additional extensions under exceptional circumstances. By allowing greater discretion to the 20 school-day rule, districts would still have the ability to deliver quality educational services to students while meeting the challenges of classroom teachers on leave. NJSBA pledged to work with Sen. Shirley Turner, the sponsor of the bill, in crafting amendments to the bill.

 The bill was released from committee and has yet to be scheduled for a vote by the full Senate.

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