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Bill

HB 1023

Part-time or adjunct instructor in public schools; locally awarded subject matter expert credential.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Will Davis and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia bill authorizes local school districts to hire part-time instructors with locally-awarded credentials based on subject expertise, bypassing state teaching certification requirements.

Assigned HED sub: K-12 Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 1023

Legislative bill overview

HB 1023 would allow Virginia public schools to hire part-time or adjunct instructors as "subject matter experts" without requiring them to hold standard teaching credentials. These instructors could be awarded a locally-issued credential based on their expertise in a particular subject area, creating an alternative pathway to classroom instruction beyond traditional teacher certification.

Why is this important

This bill addresses potential teacher shortages by tapping into professionals with deep subject knowledge who may lack formal education degrees or teaching certifications. However, it fundamentally alters quality control standards for who can teach in public schools, raising questions about student outcomes, instructor preparedness for classroom management, and equity across districts with different resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Teacher credential standards: Critics may argue this undermines the professional teaching credential system and could allow under-qualified individuals to teach, while proponents contend it recognizes valuable real-world expertise
  • Local vs. state oversight: Allowing individual school districts to award credentials creates inconsistent standards across Virginia and reduces state-level quality assurance
  • Student protection and accountability: Questions remain about whether subject matter expertise alone prepares instructors for classroom dynamics, special education requirements, and pedagogical best practices
  • Impact on traditional teachers: Labor concerns that this could depress wages and opportunities for certified educators or be used to avoid hiring full-time teachers with benefits

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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