The Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board or Board of School Administrators that has jurisdiction over your teacher’s license can revoke, suspend or refuse to renew your license when a written complaint against you meets certain conditions. A school board, teacher organization or another interested person may initiate the process by making a written complaint.
Under what conditions can your license be legally suspended, revoked or non-renewed?
What are the grounds for revoking a teacher’s license?
The accusers must specify the character and nature of their accusations in writing. To be grounds for suspension or revocation the charges must fall into one of six categories:
- Immoral conduct or character
- Willful neglect of duty or gross inefficiency
- Misrepresentation or fraud in obtaining a license
- Failure to teach for the term of your contract without justifiable cause
- Failure to meet licensure requirements
- Violation of the code of ethics for Minnesota teachers
Additionally, the board may revoke your license without a hearing if you receive a conviction for child abuse, sex trafficking or other offenses involving predatory behavior with children.
Do I have a right to appeal a revoked teacher’s license?
Minnesota statute grants you the right to appeal a license denial or non-renewal by submitting a written request to the board within 30 days of the date of the denial. After receiving your request, the board will hold a hearing and make its final decision.
An unjustly revoked, suspended or non-renewed teacher’s license can severely impact the career of any teacher. However, Minnesota statute ensures that you have a right to defend yourself and appeal any decision by the board.