What is the law on teacher tenure?

In Washington, teacher tenure is governed by state and local laws. Tenure laws provide teachers with certain job security and professional rights, including the right to due process in the event of dismissal. Under Washington law, a teacher may be granted tenure after two years of satisfactory service for the same employer. This is known as “probationary service.” During this period, the teacher’s performance should be evaluated at least once a year. At the end of the two-year period, the teacher can be extended a contract of tenure, which provides increased job security. Tenured teachers can be dismissed for cause, such as insubordination or incompetence. However, before such termination can occur, the school district must follow certain procedural steps. The dismissal process requires the school to provide written notice of the proposed action, a chance to reply in writing, a hearing in which the teacher can present evidence, and a final decision by the school board. If a teacher is successful in his or her appeal, then the school must reinstate the teacher and give back pay. As a general rule, teacher tenure is intended to guarantee a minimum level of job security and to limit the employer’s ability to act arbitrarily or make decisions based on personal bias. By protecting teachers’ rights and ensuring due process, the tenure law ensures that schools cannot terminate teachers without good reason.

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What is the law on teacher tenure?

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