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Teacher Requirements Relaxed For 3rd Grade Reading Guarantee

State lawmakers have approved a bill making more teachers temporarily eligible to participate in meeting Ohio's new third-grade reading guarantee.

The revised teacher eligibility guidelines and other changes are designed to address an anticipated shortage. The state program requires students be proficient in reading before leaving third grade. The bill scraps required completion of a "scientifically research-based reading instruction program," allowing certain highly-rated teachers with strong track records in reading to qualify. Those holding alternative credentials and not serving as a student's "teacher of record" are also freed to help. Governor John Kasich is expected to sign the bill.