Texas lawmakers propose banning uncertified teachers in schools

Texas lawmakers are proposing a new bill to ban uncertified teachers from teaching core classes in public schools. House Bill 2 gives districts until fall 2026 to certify K-5 math and reading teachers and until fall 2027 for other subjects. The bill includes financial support for uncertified teachers to obtain credentials, offering up to $10,000 for those in training programs. However, school leaders express concern that these restrictions may worsen the teacher shortage, as many districts currently rely on uncertified teachers. Uncertified teachers made up about 38% of new hires last year, especially in rural areas. Lawmakers aim to address the issue after research showed that students with uncertified teachers perform worse academically.