SC senators discussing teacher dismissal process

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina senators are considering whether changes are needed to make it easier to get rid of incompetent teachers.

Republican Sen. Paul Thurmond of Charleston complains the formal evaluation process for dismissing teachers in “continuing contract” status can take several years, essentially robbing children of a good education.

Teacher advocates say the current process works.

Attorney Al Nichols says school administrators who are properly doing their jobs can weed out bad teachers without any hearing. That’s because it can take up to seven years for teachers to earn the “continuing contract” status that provides termination rights.

State schools Superintendent Mick Zais recommends giving district superintendents final say over a teacher’s dismissal. He says school board members can base decisions on friendships, rather than a teacher’s capabilities.