New Mexico House of Representatives has approved a bill to streamline the licensing process for teachers, speeding up the process for them to become school administrators.
The bill passed on a 38-24 vote Monday and now heads to the Senate for a vote.
The legislation allows quality educators to get an administrative license in a shorter time period and gives superintendents more flexibility to fill administrative positions. The current six-year licensing process is the longest in the nation.
Some teachers who now complete a Public Education Department-approved preparation program will have the ability to seek an administrative position.
Republican Rep. Tim Lewis of Rio Rancho called the favorable vote on his bill "a huge victory" for teachers and children.
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