re: Somebody please explain Landry's "school choice" plan to me like I'm 5.

Nope, and I even addressed that in my statement that Louisiana is lowering the standard for becoming a teacher. Many areas have a shortage, and they are either fast-tracking people into the profession and paying them minimally or placing long-term subs in those professions. However, by and large, public schools have to meet a quota for certified teachers as it goes into their state score and to receive federal and state funding. This is why they are making it easier to become a teacher, such as accepting those with a two-year degree, removing the praxis requirement, and just having individuals take classes offered by the parish.