By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
MONTGOMERY — Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday signed Senate Bill 149 into law, establishing a new pathway for military veterans to serve in Alabama classrooms and help address teacher shortages across the state.
The measure, one of the governor’s legislative priorities, authorizes the Alabama State Department of Education to issue temporary teaching certificates to eligible veterans who do not yet hold a bachelor’s degree.
“Service is woven into the fabric of who we are as a state and as a nation, and by signing this bill into law, we are ensuring opportunity follows sacrifice,” Ivey said. “Our veterans have already answered the brave call to serve our country. Now, as America nears its 250th year, we are creating a pathway for our heroes to answer a new call — guiding students, filling critical teacher shortages, and continuing their mission of service right here at home. This is good for our veterans, and it is especially good for our young people who will learn from their leadership and example.”
Sponsored by Sen. Matt Woods and Rep. Rick Rehm, SB149 creates what will be known as the Military Veteran Temporary Teaching Certificate.
Woods said the legislation benefits both veterans and the state’s education system.
“Today marks a major step forward not only for our veterans, but also for Alabama’s entire education system,” Woods said. “By signing SB149 into law, we are building a pathway for our veterans to bring their leadership, experience, and real-world knowledge back into our communities. This legislation ensures the next generation will learn from some of the very best our nation has to offer. I’m grateful to Governor Ivey for her steadfast support of both our veterans and our students.”
Under the new law, veterans seeking the temporary certificate must document at least 48 months of active-duty military service with an honorable discharge or medical separation, pass a background check, and receive a recommendation from a local superintendent of education or a private K-12 school administrator.
Applicants also must have completed at least 60 college credit hours with a minimum 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale and earn a passing score on the Praxis exam through the Alabama Educator Certification Assessment Program.
Rehm said veterans bring unique strengths to the classroom.
“The final passage of the Military Veteran Temporary Teaching Certificate is a meaningful step forward for both our students and those who have served our country,” Rehm said. “Veterans bring proven leadership, accountability, and a mission-driven mindset to the classroom. By creating this pathway, we are strengthening our teacher pipeline while honoring the service and sacrifice of our military men and women. I am grateful for Governor Ivey’s partnership in continuing to make Alabama a national leader in supporting veterans.”
The certificate will be nonrenewable and valid for five years.
SB149 is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1, 2026.
