HB1441, authored by Assistant House Democratic Leader Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa will allow teachers to spend more time in the classroom teaching.

Oklahoma will follow Texas in capping the hours of required federal, state and local professional development to a combined total of 150 hours every 5 years.

“Teachers are asking for help with excessive professional development requirements. This bill does that,” Rep. Provenzano said.

The representative said the bill still provides local control for all school districts.

“Districts will have more freedom to provide training in one area or another to meet specific local needs. This bill does not limit that. It just streamlines professional development for certified teachers only,” Rep. Provenzano said.

The bill passed the House floor and is headed to the Senate for consideration.

-END-