Added authorizations for current Special Education teachers have resulted in credential holders being required to take additional coursework in order to serve students. SB 368 will allow Special Educators who need to obtain additional credential authorizations to receive credit for previous experience and coursework by granting credential programs the authority to make decisions about issues of equivalence, articulation and comparability when determining the coursework needs of teachers. Enactment of SB 368 will ensure that Special Educators are evaluated individually and receive credit for their prior knowledge and coursework.
SB 368 will be heard on May 1 in the Senate Education Committee. Enclosed are the materials to make effective contact on behalf of the bill. What can you do?
- Write a letter to the Senate Education committee supporting the bill.
- Write the individual members of the Senate Education Committee.
- Call individual members of the Senate Education Committee.
The sooner the contact occurs, the better. Letters are better than calls, but calls do work. Offices will keep track of callers, especially if you live in the legislator’s district.
A Few Tips
- Personalize your letter by using your own words and story.
- Address letters to committee chairs/members or your own legislator.
- Keep your letter brief and clear.
- Identify the bill by number and author.
- Make sure your letter is timely. Write when legislation is pending in committee.
- State reasons for your position. Tell how the issue affects you, your work, students, the community or state.