Download: Complete Bulletin. PDF file.

Recently reinstated by the New York State Board of Regents, Section 80-5.12 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education allows school districts to apply for approval of teaching assignments in connection with an experiment in organizational change. An experiment in organizational change means that a district proposes to alter the definition of an elementary, junior or senior high school. Typically, such a change involves the establishment of a middle or intermediate school program. If operating an approved experimental middle or intermediate school, a district is provided with additional flexibility in the assignment of certified teachers.

This Information Bulletin contains:

• A brief description of the regulation and the application approval process;

• An overview of teacher certification and teacher assignment flexibility;

• Information on teacher certification extensions and statements of continued eligibility;

• Advice to local leaders;

• A copy of Commissionerfs Regulations Section 80-5.12 regarding an experiment in organizational change (Appendix A);

• A copy of Commissionerfs Regulations Section 80-4.3(b) and (c) regarding extensions to teach a subject in grades 5-6 and grades 7-9 (Appendix B);

• A copy of Commissionerfs Regulations Section 80-5.3 regarding incidental teaching (Appendix C); and

• A listing of school districts which have been approved for experimental middle or intermediate school status (Appendix D). This listing is accurate as of June 2005. It is important to note that the reinstituted regulations now include language regarding the continuation of staff in teaching assignments under this provision. A school district may not continue the assignment of a teacher in any teaching assignment covered by an experiment in organizational change for more than five school years unless the teacher has obtained the teaching certificate appropriate to such assignment or certificate extension appropriate to such assignment or a statement of continued eligibility.

This fact sheet reflects the lastest available information and may be subject to change.

Download: Complete Bulletin. PDF file.