Rep. Marra Supports Important Education Legislation

Bill includes proposal to allow adjunct college professors to teach in CT High Schools

Citing a desperate need for teachers statewide, State Representative Tracy Marra (R-141) today applauded passage of an education package that includes her proposal to allow advanced degree holders to more easily obtain a Connecticut teaching certificate.

Senate Bill 1 – An Act Concerning Transparency in Education – includes a provision Rep. Marra introduced and championed to allow part-time, nontenured college professors to obtain a certificate to teach in Connecticut High Schools.

“I’m so happy the Education Committee was able to include this provision to give high school students greater access to collegiate educators in the bill. Schools need support, not mandates ” Rep. Marra, a member of the Education Committee said. “Allowing college professors to teach in high schools gives students more access to high quality educators and this legislation has the potential to lower unemployment while providing students with an education buttressed by teachers with recent, real-life work experiences.”

Under the bill, beginning 2023-24 school year, the State Board of Education may issue adjunct instructor permits to those with relevant experience or training, or expertise in the arts to teach in certain interdistrict arts magnet high schools. The bill allows for up to 25 classroom instructional hours per week as part of college and career readiness programming and limits eligibility to instructors who work at either a public or independent higher education institution in Connecticut.

The permit is valid for three years, and may be renewed by the education commissioner if the superintendent of the employing district requests it. Permit holders will be under the supervision of the superintendent or a principal, administrator, or supervisor.

The bill passed the House by a vote of 104 – 47 and now awaits further action by the governor.