Pennsylvania committee approves second career certification to address teacher shortage

The Education Committee of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives convened on May 12, 2025, to address critical issues surrounding the state's ongoing teacher shortage crisis. The meeting highlighted significant legislative efforts aimed at attracting new educators to the profession, particularly through the introduction of House Bill 1404.

The committee began discussions with a stark reminder of the teacher shortage, noting that over 17,000 educators left the classroom in just two years, according to the 2023 Penn State Center for Evaluation and Education Policy Analysis. In response, House Bill 1404 seeks to reduce barriers for prospective teachers by extending the intern certification period from three years to five years. This change is designed to provide greater flexibility for individuals transitioning into teaching from other careers, particularly those balancing work and family responsibilities.

Representative Curry, the bill's sponsor, emphasized the importance of renaming the certification to "second career certification" to better reflect its purpose. This new designation aims to welcome experienced professionals from various fields into classrooms, enriching the educational experience with their real-world expertise.

The committee members expressed strong support for the bill. Representative Schlegel noted the challenges faced in career and technology centers and highlighted the need for qualified individuals in these areas. He also mentioned the necessity of future discussions regarding the qualifications for executive directors at career and technology centers.

Representative Friel echoed the sentiment, advocating for a broader examination of qualifications for career and technical education instructors. He pointed out that skilled professionals, such as union electricians, should be recognized as qualified educators despite not meeting traditional certification requirements.

The committee addressed technical questions regarding the bill, clarifying that the term "intern certification" would be replaced with "second career certification" to eliminate confusion. The committee ultimately voted on House Bill 1404, which passed unanimously with 26 votes in favor and none against.

Following the successful passage of House Bill 1404, the committee moved on to House Bill 1405, which aims to amend the public school code to allow veteran service experience in specific occupational areas to count towards the credits necessary for career and technical education instructional certification.

The meeting concluded with a clear commitment from the committee to continue addressing the teacher shortage and exploring pathways to enhance the qualifications of educators in Pennsylvania. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential legislation to support these initiatives.