IV.D. - Educator Preparation and Certification | Idaho State Board of Education

Download IV.D. – Educator Preparation and Certification

IV.D. – Educator Preparation and Certification

1. Standards Approval

While maintaining a balance between the local governance of school districts and the Idaho constitutional requirement for a uniform and thorough system of public education, the State Board of Education sets minimum standards to provide the framework through which our public schools then provide educational opportunities to Idaho students. Applicable stakeholders and the public shall be provided with an opportunity to provide feedback prior to consideration of the Board of proposed standards. All standards brought to the Board for consideration shall include the standards themselves, a description of how feedback was solicited, and a summary of the feedback that was received. Amendments to existing standards shall also include a redlined version of the standards showing all amendments.

Content Standards The Idaho Content Standards articulate the minimum knowledge a student is expected to know and be able to use within a content (subject) area at specific grade levels. Content standards are reviewed and updated on a rotating basis in relation to the curricular materials adoption schedule, but may be updated more frequently if an area is identified as needing to be updated in advance of that schedule. Content standards review will be scheduled such that the content standard is reviewed in the year prior to the scheduled curricular materials review. At a minimum all content areas, including those without corresponding curricular materials, will be reviewed every six (6) years and notification will be made to the Office of the State Board of Education of the review and if the review will result in amendments to the standard or if it was determined that no amendments are necessary for the review cycle. Career Technical Education (CTE) content standard, program standards, and pathway standards reviews will be facilitated by the Division of Career Technical Education pursuant to the provisions established in Board Policy VII.B. All other content standards review will be facilitated by the State Department of Education.

The content standards review process will include at a minimum:
1. A review committee will consist of not less than ten (10) total members from the following stakeholder groups: certified Idaho classroom teachers, Idaho public school administrators, Idaho higher education officials, parents, local school board trustees, and State Department of Education personnel. A review committee must include Idaho educators with subject expertise in the applicable content area. A review committee established for the purpose of reviewing content standards of career technical courses must also include a member from the Division of Career Technical Education. Additional members may be included at the discretion of the
  
  PPGA TAB 3 Page 2 Department. To the extent possible, representatives shall be chosen from a combination of large and small schools or districts and provide for regional representation.
2. The review committee will make an initial determination regarding the need to update the standards.
3. Based on the review, the committee shall meet to develop initial recommendations for the creation of new content standards or amendments to the existing content standards. The Department will provide multiple opportunities for public input on the draft recommendations including but not limited to the Department website and processes that allow for individuals in each region of the state to participate.
4. Drafts of the recommended amendments will be made available to the public for comment for a period of not less than 20 days. At the close of the comment period the committee will finalize recommendations for Board consideration.
Standards for Certificated School Personnel The Standards for Certificated School Personnel set the minimum standards certificated school personnel must meet in each certification and endorsement area to be eligible for certification or to receive subject area endorsements. Teacher preparation programs must be in alignment with these certifications standards to be considered for approval or re-approval.

The standards are reviewed and updated based on a five (5) year cycle, where 20% of the standards are reviewed each year. Standards may be identified for review in advance of the five (5) year cycle, however, all standards must be reviewed every five (5) years. Subject area certification standards must be in alignment with their corresponding subject area content standards incorporated by reference into IDAPA 08.02.03, where applicable. Reviews of career technical education (CTE) educator standards will be facilitated by the Division of Career Technical Education. The Professional Standards Commission (PSC) is responsible for reviewing and making recommendations to the Board on amendments or additions to non-CTE educator standards. The PSC will report annually to the Office of the State Board of Education the standards reviewed during the previous year and if that review resulted in recommendations for amendments or if no amendments were recommended during the review cycle.

2. Instructional Staff Certificate Endorsements

Individuals holding an instructional certificate or occupational specialist certificate must have one or more endorsements attached to their certificate. Instructional staff are eligible to teach in the grades and content areas of their endorsements. Occupational specialist certificate endorsements are listed in Board Policy IV.E. Division of Career Technical Education. To be eligible for each type of endorsement, either the following credit requirement must be met or the individual must have qualified to add the endorsement through one of the routes for Alternative

PPGA TAB 3 Page 3 Authorization for new endorsements established in IDAPA 08.02.02.021. Credits used for determining eligibility in one endorsement area may also be used to meet the requirements for a corresponding endorsement area where the requirements overlap.

All Subjects (K-8). Thirty (30) semester credit hours to include coursework in discipline-specific methods of teaching elementary subject areas, cognitive processes, learner development, learning differences, literacy and language development, K-8 subject content, classroom management and behavioral supports, instructional strategies and interventions, and formative and summative assessments.
American Government /Political Science (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences, six (6) semester credit hours in American government, six (6) semester credit hours in U.S. history survey, and three (3) semester credit hours in comparative government. Course work may include three (3) semester credit hours in world history survey. Remaining coursework must be in political science.
Anthropology (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences and in the area of anthropology. Coursework may include six (6) semester credit hours in sociology.
Bilingual Education (K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in bilingual education methods; upper division coursework in one (1) modern language other than English, including writing and literature; cultural diversity; linguistics; second language acquisition theory and practice; foundations of ESL/bilingual education; legal foundations of ESL/bilingual education; identification and assessment of English learners; and biliteracy. To obtain this endorsement, the candidate must score an advanced low or higher (as defined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages or equivalent) on an oral proficiency assessment conducted by an objective second party.
Biological Science (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, molecular and organismal biology, heredity, ecology, and biological adaptation.
Blended Early Childhood Education/Early Childhood Special Education (Birth - Grade 3). Thirty (30) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching early childhood and special education, child development and learning, curriculum development and implementation, family and community relationships, assessment and evaluation, central concepts of birth - grade 3 subjects, professionalism, and clinical experience including a combination of general and special education in the following settings: birth to age three (3), ages three to five (3-5), and grades K-3 general education.

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Blended Elementary Education/Elementary Special Education (Grade 4 - Grade 6). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching elementary and special education, central concepts of grade 4 - grade 6 subjects, assessment, and clinical experiences in grades four (4) through six (6). This endorsement may only be used in conjunction with the Blended Early Childhood/Early Childhood Special Education (Birth – Grade 3) endorsement and cannot be used in a middle school setting.
Blind and Low Vision (Pre-K-12) Thirty (30) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the blind and visually impaired, assessment and evaluation, designing and monitoring individualized education programs, central concepts of academic subjects, special education law, family and community relationships, and accommodations and modifications for the blind and visually impaired.
Chemistry (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, and inorganic and organic chemistry.
Communication (5-9 or 6-12). Complete one (1) of the following options:
1. Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching communication arts, interpersonal communication, argumentation/personal persuasion, group communication, nonverbal communication, public speaking, journalism/mass communication, and social media; or
2. Complete an endorsement in English and complete (12) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching communication arts, interpersonal communication, argumentation/personal persuasion, and public speaking.
Computer Science (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching computer science; data representation and abstraction; design, development, and testing algorithms; software development processes; digital devices, systems, and networks; and the role of computer science and its global impact.
Deaf/Hard of Hearing (Pre-K-12). Thirty (30) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the deaf/hard of hearing, bimodal communication, sign language acquisition and learning, literacy development, hearing technology, spoken language development, students with disabilities, assessments, designing and monitoring individualized education programs, and special education law.
Early Childhood Special Education (Pre-K-3). Twenty (20) semester credit hours

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to include coursework in methods of teaching early childhood; child development and behavior with emphasis in cognitive-language, physical, social, and emotional areas, birth through age eight (8); curriculum and program development for young children ages three to eight (3-8); transitional services; planning, implementing, and evaluating environments and materials for young children ages three to eight (3-8); identifying and working with atypical young children ages three to eight (3- 8); designing and monitoring individualized education programs; special education law; and parent-teacher relations. This endorsement may only be added to the Exceptional Child Education (K-8 or K-
1. endorsement.
Early Literacy (K-3). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching reading and writing; the body of knowledge regarding the science of reading; the cognitive process of learning to read and write; phonological and phonemic awareness; oral language development; phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension; diagnostic literacy assessments and analysis leading to the development and implementation of individual reading improvement plans; data analysis related to early recognition of literacy difficulties including characteristics of dyslexia; data driven instruction and intervention; language acquisition and development; stages of reading and writing development; early elementary reading and writing resources including children’s literacy advocacy strategies for meeting the needs of struggling readers and writers; and the Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Plan.
Earth and Space Science (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, earth science, astronomy, and geology.
Economics (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences, three (3) semester credit hours in microeconomics, three (3) semester credit hours in macroeconomics, and six (6) semester credit hours in personal finance/consumer economics. Remaining course work must be in business, economics, or finance.
Engineering (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching engineering and in areas of engineering.
English (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in secondary English language arts methods, grammar, American literature, British literature, multicultural/world literature, young adult literature, literary theory, and advanced composition.
English as a Second Language (ESL) (K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching language acquisition, a modern language other than English, cultural diversity, linguistics, second language

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acquisition theory and practice, foundations of ESL/bilingual education, legal foundations of ESL/bilingual education, and identification and assessment of English learners.
Exceptional Child Education (K-8, 6-12, or K-12). Thirty (30) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the exceptional child, learner development and individual learning differences, assessment and evaluation, designing and monitoring individualized education programs, central concepts of academic subjects, individual behavioral supports, instructional strategies and interventions, special education law, family and community relationships, and accommodations and modifications.
Geography (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences, cultural geography, and physical geography, and a maximum of six (6) semester credit hours in world history survey. Coursework may include three (3) semester credit hours in economics. Remaining coursework must be in geography.
Geology (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, and in the area of geology.
Gifted and Talented Education (K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching gifted and talented learners, assessment and identification of gifted and talented learners, differentiated instruction, creative and critical thinking, social and emotional needs of gifted and talented learners, program design, curriculum, and instruction.
Health (5-9, 6-12, or K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in secondary methods of teaching health; planning, organization, and administration of a school health program; health, wellness, and behavior change; mental/emotional health; nutrition; human sexuality; and health risk behaviors. Remaining semester credits must be in health-related coursework. To obtain a Health (K-12) endorsement, applicants must complete coursework in elementary health methods.
History (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences, six (6) semester credit hours in U.S. history survey, and six (6) semester credit hours in world history survey. Coursework may include three (3) semester credit hours in American government. Remaining coursework must be in history.
Humanities (5-9 or 6-12). Complete an endorsement in English, history, music, theatre arts, visual arts, or world language; and complete twenty (20) semester credit hours as follows:

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1. English endorsement - twenty (20) semester credit hours in two (2) or more of the following areas: architecture, comparative world religion, dance, history, humanities survey, music, philosophy, theatre arts, visual arts, and world language.
2. History endorsement - twenty (20) semester credit hours in two (2) or more of the following areas: architecture, comparative world religion, dance, humanities survey, literature, music, philosophy, theatre arts, visual arts, and world language.
3. Music endorsement - twenty (20) semester credit hours in two (2) or more of the following areas: architecture, comparative world religion, dance, history, humanities survey, literature, philosophy, theatre arts, visual arts, and world language.
4. Theatre arts endorsement - twenty (20) semester credit hours in two (2) or more of the following areas: architecture, comparative world religion, dance, history, humanities survey, literature, music, philosophy, visual arts, and world language.
5. Visual arts endorsement - twenty (20) semester credit hours in two (2) or more of the following areas: architecture, comparative world religion, dance, history, humanities survey, literature, music, philosophy, theatre arts, and world language.
6. World language endorsement - twenty (20) semester credit hours in two (2) or more of the following areas: architecture, comparative world religion, dance, history, humanities survey, literature, music, philosophy, theatre arts, and visual arts.
  
  aa. Journalism (5-9 or 6-12). Complete one (1) of the following options:
7. Twenty (20) semester credit hours in the area of journalism to include coursework in methods of teaching communication arts and six (6) semester credit hours in communication arts.
8. Complete an English endorsement and twelve (12) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching communication arts and in the area of journalism.
  
  bb. Literacy (K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching reading and writing; foundations of literacy including reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing, and language; language acquisition and development; diversity of literacy learners; literacy in the content area; literature for youth; diagnostic reading and writing; literacy assessments; data analysis and identification of characteristics of literacy difficulties including dyslexia; data driven instruction; instructional interventions; and the Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Plan.
9. Mathematics (6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in secondary methods of teaching mathematics, Euclidean and transformational geometry, linear algebra, discrete mathematics, statistical modeling and probabilistic reasoning, and the first two (2) courses in a standard calculus
  
  PPGA TAB 3 Page 8 sequence.
10. Mathematics - Middle Level (5-9). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in secondary methods of teaching mathematics, algebraic thinking, functional reasoning, Euclidean and transformational geometry, and statistical modeling and probabilistic reasoning. Six (6) semester credit hours of computer programming may be substituted for six (6) semester credit hours of mathematics content.
  
  ee. Music (5-9 or 6-12 or K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in secondary methods of teaching music, theory and harmony, aural skills, music history, conducting, applied music, and piano proficiency (class piano or applied piano). To obtain a Music (K-12) endorsement, applicants must complete elementary music methods coursework.
  
  ff. Natural Science (6-12). Complete one (1) of the following options:
11. Complete an endorsement in one of the following: biological science, chemistry, Earth science, geology, or physics; and complete a total of twenty-four (24) semester credit hours as follows:
  1. Biological science endorsement. Eight (8) semester credit hours in each of the following: chemistry, physics, and Earth science or geology.
  2. Chemistry endorsement. Eight (8) semester credit hours in each of the following: biology, physics, and Earth science or geology.
  3. Earth science or geology endorsement. Eight (8) semester credit hours in each of the following: biology, chemistry, and physics.
  4. Physics endorsement. Eight (8) semester credit hours in each of the following areas: biology, chemistry, and Earth science or geology.
12. Complete an endorsement in Agriculture Science and Technology, and complete twenty-four (24) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, and six (6) semester credit hours in each of the following: biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth science or geology.
  
  gg. Online Teacher (K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of online teaching; assistive technology; learning management systems and content management systems; synchronous, asynchronous, and blended learning environments; and instructional strategies for the online environment. Candidates must complete an eight (8)-week online clinical practice
  
  in a K-12 setting or complete one (1) year of verifiable, successful experience as a teacher delivering online instruction in a K-12 setting within the past three (3) years.
  
  hh. Physical Education (PE) (5-9 or 6-12 or K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours
  
  PPGA TAB 3 Page 9 to include coursework in secondary methods of teaching PE; sports, skillful movement, physical activity, and outdoor skills; student evaluation in PE; safety and prevention of injuries; fitness and wellness; PE for special populations; exercise physiology; kinesiology/biomechanics; motor behavior; and current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, automated external defibrillator use, and first aid. To obtain a PE K-12 endorsement, applicants must complete coursework in elementary PE methods.
13. Physical Science (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, and in the area of physical science to include a minimum of eight (8) semester credit hours in each of the following: chemistry and physics.
  
  jj. Physics (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, and in the area of physics.
  
  kk. Psychology (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences and in the area of psychology.
14. Science – Middle Level (5-9). Twenty-four (24) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching science, lab safety, and eight (8) credits in each of the following: biology, earth science, and physical science.
15. Social Studies (6-12). Complete one of the following options:
16. A course in methods of teaching the social sciences and twelve (12) semester credit hours in each of the following: American government/political science, economics, geography, and history
17. A course in methods of teaching the social sciences, fifteen (15) semester credit hours in each of the following: American government/political science and history, and nine (9) semester credit hours in each of the following: economics and geography.
18. Complete an endorsement in American government/political science, economics, geography, or history and complete a total of thirty-six (36) semester credit hours as follows:
  1. American government/political science endorsement - twelve (12) semester credit hours in each of the following: economics, geography, and history.
  2. Economics endorsement – twelve (12) semester credit hours in each of the following: American government/political science, geography, and history.
  3. Geography endorsement – twelve (12) semester credit hours in each of the following: American government/political science, economics, and history.
  4. History endorsement – twelve (12) semester credit hours in each of the
    
    PPGA TAB 3 Page 10 following: American government/political science, economics, and geography.
    
    nn. Social Studies – Middle Level (5-9). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences and at least five (5) semester credit hours in each of the following: geography, history, and American government/political science or economics.
    
    oo. Sociology (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching the social sciences and in the area of sociology. Coursework may include six (6) semester credit hours in anthropology.
    
    pp. Teacher Leader. Teacher leaders hold a standard instructional certificate or a degree-based career technical certificate and provide technical assistance to teachers and other staff with regard to the selection and implementation of appropriate teaching materials, instructional strategies, and procedures to improve educational outcomes for students. Individuals who hold this endorsement facilitate the design and implementation of sustained, intensive, and job- embedded professional learning based on identified student and teacher needs.
19. Teacher Leader – Instructional Specialist
  1. Complete three (3) years of full-time certificated teaching experience while under contract in an accredited school setting.
  2. Complete a state board approved program of at least twenty (20) post baccalaureate semester credit hours of study aligned to Idaho Teacher Leader Standards at an accredited college or university or a state board approved equivalent. Coursework to include clinical supervision, instructional leadership, and advanced pedagogical knowledge, and demonstrated competencies in the following areas: providing feedback on instructional episodes, engaging in reflective dialogue centered on classroom instructional management and/or experience, focused goal- setting and facilitation of individual and collective personal growth, understanding the observation cycle, and knowledge and expertise in data management platforms.
  3. Complete ninety (90) supervised contact hours to include facilitation of both individual and group professional development activities.
20. Teacher Leader – Instructional Technology
  1. Complete three (3) years of full-time certificated teaching experience while under contract in an accredited school setting.
  2. Complete a state board approved program of at least twenty (20) post baccalaureate semester credit hours of study aligned to Idaho Teacher Leader Standards at an accredited college or university or a state board approved equivalent. Coursework to include technology integration and assessments, online education infrastructure and execution, instructional
    
    PPGA TAB 3 Page 11 technology theory and foundations pedagogy, systems and performance evaluation, and applied project experiences.
  3. Complete ninety (90) supervised contact hours to include facilitation of both individual and group professional development activities.
21. Teacher Leader – Literacy
  1. Hold a literacy endorsement or meet the requirements of a literacy endorsement, and complete three (3) years of full-time certificated teaching experience while under contract in an accredited school setting.
  2. Complete a state board approved program of at least twenty (20) post baccalaureate semester credit hours of study aligned to Idaho Teacher Leader Standards at an accredited college or university or a state board approved equivalent. Coursework to include foundational literacy concepts; fluency, vocabulary development, and comprehension; literacy assessment concepts; and writing process; all of which are centered on the following emphases: specialized knowledge of content and instructional methods; data driven decision making to inform instruction; research-based differentiation strategies; and culturally responsive pedagogy for diverse learners.
  3. Complete ninety (90) supervised contact hours to include facilitation of both individual and group professional development activities.
22. Teacher Leader – Mathematics
  1. Hold a mathematics (6-12) or (5-9) endorsement and complete three (3) years of full-time certificated teaching experience while under contract in an accredited school setting.
  2. Complete a state board approved program of at least twenty (20) post baccalaureate semester credit hours of study aligned to Idaho Teacher Leader Standards at an accredited college or university or a state board approved equivalent. Coursework to include number and operation, geometry, algebraic reasoning, measurement and data analysis, and statistics and probability, all of which are centered on the following emphases: structural components of mathematics; modeling, justification, proof, and generalization; and specialized mathematical knowledge for teaching.
  3. Program shall include ninety (90) supervised contact hours to include facilitation of both individual and group professional development activities.
23. Teacher Leader – Special Education
  1. Hold an Exceptional Child Education endorsement or Blended Early Childhood Education/Early Childhood Special Education endorsement and complete three (3) years of full-time certificated teaching experience, at least two (2) years of which must be in a special education classroom setting, while under contract in an accredited school setting.
  2. Complete a state board approved program of at least twenty (20) post
    
    PPGA TAB 3 Page 12 baccalaureate semester credit hours of study aligned to Idaho Teacher Leader Standards at an accredited college or university or a state board approved equivalent. Coursework to include assessment of learning behaviors; individualization of instructional programs based on educational diagnosis; behavioral and/or classroom management techniques; program implementation and supervision; use of current methods, materials, and resources available; management and operation of special education management platforms; identification and utilization of community or agency resources and support services; counseling, guidance, and management of professional staff, and special education law, including case law.
  3. Program shall include ninety (90) supervised contact hours to include facilitation of both individual and group professional development activities.
    
    qq. Teacher Librarian (K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in collection development and materials selection, literature for children and/or young adults, organization of information to include cataloging and classification, school library administration and management, library information technologies, information literacy, and reference and information service.
    
    rr. Theatre Arts (5-9 or 6-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in secondary methods of teaching theatre arts, acting and directing, and six (6) semester credits in technical theatre/stagecraft.
    
    ss. Visual Arts (5-9, 6-12, or K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching secondary arts, 2-dimensional and 3- dimensional studio areas, six (6) semester credit hours in foundation art and design, and three (3) credits in art history. To obtain a Visual Arts (K-12) endorsement, applicants must complete elementary arts methods coursework.
    
    tt. World Language (5-9, 6-12 or K-12). Twenty (20) semester credit hours to include coursework in methods of teaching language acquisition, twelve (12) intermediate or higher credits in a specific world language, and coursework in two (2) or more of the following areas: grammar, conversation, composition, culture, or literature. To obtain an endorsement in a specific world language (K- 12), applicants must complete an elementary methods course. To obtain an endorsement in a specific world language, applicants must complete the following:
24. Score an intermediate high (as defined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages or equivalent) on an oral proficiency assessment conducted by an objective second party; and
25. A qualifying score on a state board approved specific world language content assessment, or if a specific world language content assessment is not
  
  PPGA TAB 3 Page 13 available, a qualifying score on a state board approved world language pedagogy assessment.

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IV.D. – Educator Preparation and Certification – 06-2024