Harper-Backed Bill to Address Educator Shortage Becomes Law

CHICAGO – State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago is highlighting a new measure that will address Illinois’ substitute teacher shortages by waiving a licensing fee, allowing more people interested in teaching to follow their passion.

“While school closings have rocked the core of our community in recent weeks, many remaining schools have struggled to find access to substitute teachers,” Harper said. “As a strong advocate in the fight for education, I want to ensure that all schools are equipped with teachers and educators, including substitute teachers to fill classroom vacancies. We cannot abandon our children to teach themselves without the care and attention of a highly trained and qualified adult.”

The Harper-backed measure calls on the State Board of Education to reimburse the substitute teacher application fee of $50 within 10 days of an applicants submission. Harper’s law is to incentivize people to apply for substitute teaching by eliminating burdensome costs, while addressing the shortage.

“While the ongoing fight for education is just beginning, I applaud the efforts of my colleagues for taking steps that are in the best interest of students,” Harper said. “The passage of this new law will give our children more access to qualified educators to allow them to follow their own dreams and passions.”