AN ACT RELATING TO EDUCATION -- RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF TEACHERS GENERALLY

HB 7529 expands the definition of "teacher" to include school nurses, counselors, psychologists, principals, and superintendents, covering all public school staff. It establishes 19 specific rights for these educators, such as a safe workplace free from harassment, protection against being forced to pay for classroom supplies, access to necessary resources like technology, academic freedom, and fair evaluation processes (no more than every 3 years for "highly effective" teachers). The bill directly affects all public school staff covered under the expanded definition, ensuring they have clear, codified workplace protections. It clarifies existing expectations rather than creating new funding or mandates, focusing on defining and safeguarding professional rights within school environments.