SUMMARY:  LC 43 1819-EC  LC 43 2127-ECS

This bill is part of Governor Kemp's Teacher Pipeline package.  It is a "Return to Work" bill similar to the bill that did not pass in 2020.

It would allow districts to hire certified teachers who have been retired for at least a year and who retired with 30 years creditable service to return to work full-time in an area of highest need as determined for the RESA to which the district is assigned.  The teacher continues to draw their retirement but accrues no additional time.  The district must pay the employer and the employee portion of  TRS.

"Area of highest need" is one of three content areas for which there are the greatest percentages of unfilled positions for classroom teachers in the RESA.  They will be determined each year by the Department of Education (DOE) after consulting with the Professional Standards Commission.  It will be based on a 5 year average review of a survey reported by local systems to DOE.  

This eligibility lasts July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2026.  Prior to July 1, 2025, the state auditor must perform a performance audit to determine the  value and necessity of having retirees return to work and the effects of the program on school systems, TRS, and the teacher work force. 

EFFECTIVE DATE:

July 1, 2022