Utah Legislature: Utah teacher firing time brings debate

SALT LAKE CITY — Deciding exactly when to get rid of a bad teacher brought heated debate during Tuesday's House Education Standing Committee.

HB42, sponsored by Rep. Ronda Menlove, R-Garland, would extend a teacher's provisional period — during which time employment could be terminated — from three years to five years before granting "career status."

Menlove points out some teachers simply need more time to adjust, or there could be extenuating circumstances, such as an illness or death in the family, that sets them back. "This bill allows administrators flexibility in making this decision," she said.

However, some lawmakers are worried about kids suffering from being stuck with a subpar educator for two more years. Rep. John Anderson, R-Taylorsville, expressed concern over "teachers who can't cut it."

The bill passed through the committee Tuesday with a slim 7-6 vote.

— By Amy K. Stewart