Teacher Qualifications and RA 4670

Study Notes

RA 4670, also known as the Magna Carta for Public School Teachers, aims to enhance the social and economic status of public school teachers.
Objectives include improving living and working conditions, terms of employment, and career opportunities for teachers.
The policy seeks to make the teaching profession competitive with other sectors to attract qualified individuals.

Teachers in Kindergarten and elementary must have a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (BSEED).
Secondary school teachers require a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field with specified majors/minors or a Bachelor’s degree in Arts/Science with education credits.
Vocational and technical course teachers must hold a relevant Bachelor's degree and complete at least 18 units in education.
Collegiate level teachers, except those in vocational courses, need a Master's degree in their area of specialization.

If no qualified applicants exist, the school superintendent may hire candidates on a temporary basis, under specific conditions.
Candidates must take a competitive examination, with appointments based on exam rankings.
Examination results must be publicly announced, and all applicants must receive their scores and ranks.

No probationary period is required if a teacher holds appropriate civil service eligibility.
Teachers are guaranteed stability and security of tenure as per existing laws.

Teachers cannot be transferred without their consent.
If a teacher disputes a transfer, they can appeal to the Director of Public Schools.
No transfers are permitted within three months of local or national elections.
Government covers transfer expenses for the teacher and their family.

A Code of Professional Conduct for Public School Teachers is to be created within six months of the act's approval.
Each teacher will receive a copy of this code.

Teachers are entitled to equitable safeguards during disciplinary procedures, including:
- Advance written notification of charges.
- Access to all evidence in the case.
- The right to defend themselves with representation.
- The ability to appeal to designated authorities.
No details regarding disciplinary actions will be made public while the case is ongoing.

Initial hearings for administrative charges against teachers will be conducted by a committee that includes:
- The corresponding School Superintendent or an authorized representative.
- A local representative or an alternative if unavailable.