W. Va. Code R. § 126-154-7

Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 45, November 8, 2024

Section 126-154-7 - Functions of the Commission

7.1. Major Functions. - The major functions of the Commission are to develop and recommend to the State Board a systematic plan for the professional development of educators that begins with recruitment and concludes upon retirement. Major components within this continuum include initial preparation, licensure and continuing professional development. With the primary objective of improving teaching and learning in the public schools, the Commission's functions shall include recommendations as to the following:

7.1.a. Initial Preparation.

7.1.a.1. Standards and requirements for initial preparation and procedures for program approval.

7.1.b. Licensure.

7.1.b.1. Standards and requirements for initial and continued licensure.

7.1.b.2. Assessment instruments and/or procedures for licensure that will assure a competent educator.

7.1.b.3. Reciprocal agreements with other states and countries that promote the mobility of teachers across state and national lines through the licensure process.

7.1.b.4. A system that includes an assurance that licensed educators possess the personal characteristics to ensure the safety of the students entrusted to their care.

7.1.b.5. Criteria and a system for the revocation of licenses for just cause and reinstatement of licenses.

7.1.c. Professional Development.

7.1.c.1. Standards, requirements and procedures that will assure the continuing growth and improvement of the knowledge and skills of the state's professional educators throughout their educational careers.

7.1.d. Administrative Functions.

7.1.d.1. Bylaws for the Commission's governance and operation.

7.1.d.2. A licensure fee structure.

7.1.d.3. A system that enables an educator to receive due process when questions arise concerning her/his qualifications.

7.2. Professional Practice Panel. The Commission shall select seven of its members to serve as the Professional Practice Panel which shall recommend to the State Superintendent of Schools the suspension, permanent revocation or revocation of an educator's license(s) for cause and reinstatement of an educator's license(s) following suspension or revocation. It is recommended that the Professional Practice Panel include four teachers, one public school superintendent or principal and one layperson, whenever possible. Any proceeding for suspension, permanent revocation, revocation or reinstatement requiring an evidentiary hearing may be referred to the Professional Practice Panel by the State Superintendent of Schools to conduct the hearing_and make recommendations on disposition. Any hearing held by the Professional Practice Panel shall be conducted in accordance with the procedures outlined in W. Va. 126CSR4, State Board Policy 1340, Rules of Procedure for Administrative Hearings and Appeals.

7.3. Licensure Appeal Panel. The Commission shall select seven of its members to serve as the Licensure Appeal Panel. This panel may provide an opportunity for an appeal hearing following a recommendation from the Department's Office of Professional Preparation of a permanent denial for cause or denial for cause pursuant to procedures outlined in W. Va. 126CSR4, State Board Policy 1340, Rules of Procedure for Administrative Hearings and Appeals. It is recommended that the Licensure Appeal Panel include four teachers, one higher education representative and one layperson, whenever possible.

7.4. Commission members may not serve on both the Professional Practice Panel and the Licensure Appeal Panel.

W. Va. Code R. § 126-154-7