An Act enabling all students to thrive: protecting a high quality, diverse educator workforce

This bill changes Massachusetts school layoff rules to protect teachers in high-need schools and diverse classrooms. It prevents schools from laying off certified teachers with professional status if a less qualified teacher (with or without professional status) holds the same position, unless the senior teacher is equally qualified. Teachers in high-need schools, those with "grow your own" program backgrounds, top-rated performers, or specific language skills (like Bilingual Endorsement) gain job protections during layoffs. The law requires schools to prioritize student needs and performance evaluations when making layoff decisions, and the education department must report by 2031 on whether it increases teachers of color. It applies directly to public school teachers and administrators in Massachusetts.