HARRISBURG – In an effort to enhance the adaptability of our education system, Sen. Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) is seeking support for legislation aimed at aligning teacher certification levels more closely with the current organization of schools. The reform comes a month after the Basic Education Funding Commission concluded its work on how to improve outcomes in public schools across the Commonwealth.
“As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of education, it is imperative that our policies reflect the evolving needs of schools,” Phillips-Hill said. “This effort seeks to bridge that gap between traditional certification structures and the modern reality of diverse and multifaceted educational institutions.”
The proposed revised certification levels in Phillips-Hill’s forthcoming legislation are outlined as follows:
- Early Childhood: Pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, grades 1 through 4, or ages 3 through 9.
- Elementary: Kindergarten, grades 1 through 6, or ages 4 through 11.
- Middle: Grades 6 through 9 or ages 11 through 15.
- Secondary: Grades 7 through 12 or ages 11 through 21.
Phillips-Hill said these changes reflect a lot of concerns raised during eight months of public hearings with the 2023-24 Basic Education Funding Commission and would mitigate the challenges of teacher vacancies.