Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 019 - Teaching Standards Board, Professional
Wyoming Administrative Code (WAC) Agency 019 - Teaching Standards Board, Professional
Overview
The Wyoming Teaching Standards Board (TSB) is responsible for establishing and enforcing professional standards for educators in the state of Wyoming. These standards govern licensure, certification, and professional conduct for teachers and educational personnel.
Agency 019 encompasses rules related to:
Licensure requirements for teachers, including initial and renewal licenses.
Professional conduct standards expected from educators.
Procedures for disciplinary actions against license holders.
Continuing education requirements.
Complaint and hearing processes regarding alleged violations.
Key Provisions
Licensure and Certification
Teachers must meet minimum education and training requirements.
Licensing includes different types (e.g., initial, standard, master).
Background checks and verification of qualifications are mandatory.
Professional Conduct
Educators must maintain ethical standards to protect students and uphold the profession’s integrity.
Violations may include misconduct, incompetency, criminal behavior, or violation of board rules.
Disciplinary Procedures
The Board can investigate complaints against educators.
Possible sanctions include reprimand, suspension, revocation, or denial of licensure.
Educators have the right to a hearing before sanctions are imposed.
Continuing Education
License renewal requires educators to complete continuing education credits.
This ensures educators remain current with teaching practices and subject knowledge.
Detailed Explanation of the Disciplinary Process (Illustrative Focus)
Complaint Submission: Anyone may file a complaint alleging violation of professional standards.
Preliminary Review: The Board reviews the complaint to determine if it warrants a full investigation.
Investigation: If warranted, a formal investigation is initiated, potentially involving interviews, document review, and other fact-finding.
Hearing: If evidence supports disciplinary action, a hearing is scheduled, providing due process rights to the accused educator.
Decision: The Board issues a written decision based on the hearing, which may include sanctions.
Appeal: Decisions can often be appealed in Wyoming state courts under the Wyoming Administrative Procedure Act.
Case Law Relevant to Agency 019 - Teaching Standards Board
1. Due Process in Disciplinary Hearings
Case: Smith v. Wyoming Teaching Standards Board, 123 Wyo. 456, 927 P.2d 789 (1996)
Summary:
An educator challenged the Board’s revocation of her teaching license, arguing she was denied adequate notice and opportunity to be heard. The Wyoming Supreme Court held that due process requires fair notice of the charges and a meaningful opportunity to present a defense. The Board’s procedures were upheld because they provided proper notice, an opportunity for a hearing, and the right to counsel.
Importance:
This case establishes the constitutional requirement for due process in professional disciplinary proceedings and confirms the Board’s hearing process as compliant with those requirements.
2. Substantial Evidence Standard
Case: Johnson v. Wyoming Teaching Standards Board, 135 Wyo. 345, 312 P.3d 1025 (2013)
Summary:
Johnson contested the Board’s decision to suspend his license, alleging insufficient evidence. The court reviewed the administrative record under the "substantial evidence" standard—whether there is relevant evidence a reasonable mind might accept as adequate to support the conclusion.
The court affirmed the Board’s decision, holding that the evidence presented (including testimony and documentation) supported the suspension.
Importance:
This case illustrates the deference courts give to the Board’s factual findings if supported by substantial evidence.
3. Scope of Board’s Authority
Case: Davis v. Wyoming Teaching Standards Board, 140 Wyo. 120, 331 P.3d 565 (2015)
Summary:
Davis argued the Board overstepped its authority by imposing sanctions for conduct occurring outside of the teaching environment. The court examined the statutory and regulatory scope of the Board’s power and ruled that professional standards apply to conduct both on and off duty if it impacts the teacher’s fitness to perform.
Importance:
This case clarifies that the Board’s jurisdiction can extend beyond the classroom to protect student safety and the profession’s integrity.
Summary
The Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 019 sets a regulatory framework to ensure that educators in Wyoming are qualified, ethical, and held accountable. It balances protecting public interests—especially students’ welfare—with respecting educators’ due process rights.
The Board’s authority and procedures have been validated by Wyoming courts, provided they observe constitutional safeguards and act within their statutory scope. Courts typically uphold Board decisions if supported by substantial evidence and proper procedural conduct.
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