Haley Vetoes Bill That Keeps Teacher Evaluations Private

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) _ Gov. Nikki Haley has vetoed legislation exempting teacher evaluations from public disclosure but says she’ll support a better-written bill next year.

The Republican governor says she recognizes the bill’s intent is to promote a more candid evaluation process. But she says it’s written too broadly.

The bill exempts educator evaluations with “personally identifiable information” from the state’s public records law.

Haley says that allows school districts to withhold any record related to an evaluation, including information on teacher misconduct.

Lexington Rep. Kenny Bingham says he supports the veto, as he didn’t intend to create a potential loophole.

Haley says she’s working with Bingham and state Education Superintendent Molly Spearman on legislation to protect teachers’ privacy while allowing “reasonable public access.”

Bingham says a budget clause covers teachers in the meantime.