A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT DIRECTING the state board of education to develop and implement digital learning standards for teachers and school administrators, as recommended by the legislative research commission study committee on DIGITAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
Whereas, digital learning environments are essential for equipping students with 21st Century skills and preparing them for success in both career and college; and
Whereas, effective educators, including classroom teachers, instructional technology facilitators, media specialists, teaching assistants, principals, and superintendents, must be committed to creating an environment that uses multiple digital learning resources; and
Whereas, high‑quality, ongoing professional development and support are key factors in developing successful digital learning environments; and
Whereas, some North Carolina local school administrative units (LEAs) have taken the initiative to provide support, resources, and professional development that enable teachers to successfully integrate digital learning into the classroom; and
Whereas, some of these initiatives have resulted in remarkable gains in student performance; and
Whereas, it is essential that LEAs continue to share ideas and resources on digital learning and that digital learning be implemented in all classrooms in the State; Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  G.S. 115C‑12 is amended by adding a new subdivision to read:
"§ 115C‑12.  Powers and duties of the Board generally.
The general supervision and administration of the free public school system shall be vested in the State Board of Education. The State Board of Education shall establish policy for the system of free public schools, subject to laws enacted by the General Assembly. The powers and duties of the State Board of Education are defined as follows:
…
(40)	Duty to Develop and Implement Digital Competency Standards. – The State Board of Education shall develop digital competency standards to provide a framework for schools of education, school administrators, and classroom teachers on the needed skills to provide high‑quality, integrated digital learning. Beginning with the 2017‑2018 school year, the State Board shall include digital competencies and related required professional development as an integral component of initial licensure and licensure renewal requirements for teachers and school administrators."
SECTION 2.  This act is effective when it becomes law.