text: The commission shall review the minimum requirements set forth in Section 44259 for the preliminary and professional multiple subject teaching credential and shall recommend their revision as necessary, during the normal revision cycles, to ensure that teachers of the elementary grades receive training related to, and have knowledge of, developmentally appropriate teaching methods for pupils in kindergarten and grades 1 to 3, inclusive, who may be of the same grade level but of vastly different developmental levels. As part of its review, the commission shall ensure that the requirements link academic theory regarding child development to instructional methods designed for use in classrooms of young pupils of varying developmental levels. These instructional methods should be designed to ensure success and progress by all pupils and should especially help teachers ensure that children who enter school less prepared or with fewer skills than their classmates meet the expected performance standards for that grade by the end of the instructional year. At the conclusion of its review, the commission shall report to the Legislature on its recommended revisions, on or before January 1, 2001.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 83, Sec. 30. Effective January 1, 2000.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


kind: section

code: EDC

text:
(a) (1) There is hereby established the Pathways to Bilingual Teaching Program, to be administered by the commission, for the purpose of increasing the number of California teachers qualified to teach in bilingual settings.

(2) The sum of ten million dollars ($10,000,000) is hereby appropriated from the General Fund to the commission for allocation pursuant to this section for grant awards to be used through the 2031–32 fiscal year.

(b) (1) The commission shall develop and implement a program to award, on a competitive basis, grants of up to six hundred thousand dollars ($600,000), which may be expended over six years, to consortia of local educational agencies to form, pursuant to subdivision (c), consortia with four-year institutions of higher education or consortia with four-year institutions of higher education and community colleges, for the purpose of establishing or expanding existing pathways to bilingual teaching to enable bilingual candidates to earn a multiple subject, single subject, PK-3 early childhood education specialist, or education specialist credential, with a bilingual authorization.

(2) The commission shall give priority for grants to consortia of local educational agencies whose applications demonstrate a high need for teachers with a bilingual authorization by meeting one or both of the following:

(A) The consortium of local educational agencies includes one or more local educational agencies with a high concentration of pupils who are English language learners.

(B) The consortium of local educational agencies includes one or more local educational agencies located in a rural area or a geographic region experiencing an acute systemic shortage of teachers with a bilingual authorization, characterized by a significant gap between available teacher preparation programs and the needs of local pupils who are English language learners.

(3) For purposes of this section, “pathway to bilingual teaching” means an articulated, guided sequence of secondary education, postsecondary education, and teacher preparation, including preparation to earn a bilingual authorization, leading to employment as a bilingual teacher.

(c) A consortium of local educational agencies receiving a grant pursuant to subdivision (b) shall develop and implement a broader consortium through a partnership with one or more four-year institutions of higher education, or one or more four-year institutions of higher education and one or more community colleges. The broader consortium formed pursuant to this subdivision shall do all of the following:

(1) Recruit bilingual candidates by local educational agencies for the pathway to bilingual teaching based on candidates’ interest in teaching, including, but not limited to, current paraprofessionals and classified employees.

(2) To the extent feasible, develop pathways to bilingual teaching for high school pupils with experience working in after school programs, participating in a career technical education pathway in education, or participating in future teacher clubs, and for candidates who are likely to meet the eligibility criteria to receive the State Seal of Biliteracy.

(3) Partner with at least one of the following:

(A) A community college or four-year institution of higher education to use dual enrollment, including early and middle college programs, to enable these candidates to earn part or all of their associate’s degrees or bilingual authorization before graduation.

(B) A four-year institution of higher education into which these candidates transfer and in which they earn their baccalaureate degrees and a multiple subject, single subject, PK-3 early childhood education specialist, or education specialist teaching credential, with a bilingual authorization.

(4) Enter into an agreement with one or more local educational agencies, including, but not limited to, local educational agencies enrolling candidates in the pathway, to hire qualified graduates of the pathway in bilingual teaching positions.

(d) Grants pursuant to subdivision (b) shall fund proposals to establish new or expand existing pathways to bilingual teaching, with the first year of the grant for planning purposes and the subsequent five years of the grant for implementation purposes. These funds may be expended for any proper purpose in support of this section, including, but not limited to, any of the following:

(1) To provide teacher, administrator, and faculty release time or stipends to design the pathway and obtain any necessary agreements to implement the pathway.

(2) To create or redesign courses for candidates in a pathway to bilingual teaching.

(3) To design appropriate recruitment, guidance, and support strategies for candidates participating in the pathway.

(e) As a condition of the receipt of a grant, a consortium described in subdivision (c) shall provide to the commission program and outcome information for at least five years after receiving the grant. The information shall include program design and features, the number of candidates enrolled in the program, the number of candidates who have completed the program, the number and type of credentials and bilingual authorizations earned, the time taken to earn a degree and credential, commitments made by local educational agencies with the intent to offer employment of bilingual teaching positions, any other information the commission may require for purposes of documenting the effect of the grant and identifying effective practices in program design and implementation, and, if applicable, home languages spoken by graduates, racial and ethnic backgrounds of graduates, and graduates who are or have ever been English language learners.

(f) The commission shall require applicants for grants under this section to provide assurances of all of the following:

(1) A commitment to implement a planned pathway to bilingual teaching.

(2) A plan for recruitment and retention of candidates for the pathway to bilingual teaching for open positions.

(3) Coordination with existing sources of candidate support, such as the Educator Recruitment and Retention Initiative established pursuant to Chapter 13.5 (commencing with Section 44400) and the Golden State Teacher Grant Program established pursuant to Article 5.1 (commencing with Section 69617) of Chapter 2 of Part 42 of Division 5 of Title 3, and other forms of financial aid.

(4) Demonstrated commitment to develop or expand enrollment in, and access to, the pathway to bilingual teaching.

(5) A plan to sustain the pathway to bilingual teaching after funding provided under this section expires.

(g) The commission shall annually report to the appropriate fiscal and policy committees of the Legislature on the progress grant recipients have made in developing and implementing pathways to bilingual teaching, including, when appropriate, the number of teachers who are enrolled in the pathways and the number of teachers who have completed the pathways and are employed in bilingual settings as reported by local educational agencies, until funds are fully expended.

(h) For purposes of making the computations required by Section 8 of Article XVI of the California Constitution, the appropriation made pursuant to subdivision (a) shall be deemed to be “General Fund revenues appropriated for school districts,” as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 41202, for the 2025–26 fiscal year, and included within the “total allocations to school districts and community college districts from General Fund proceeds of taxes appropriated pursuant to Article XIIIB,” as defined in subdivision (e) of Section 41202, for the 2025–26 fiscal year.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2026, Ch. 65, Sec. 61. (AB 126) Effective July 9, 2026.)

division: 3. LOCAL ADMINISTRATION

part: 25. EMPLOYEES

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

chapter: 2. Teacher Credentialing

article: 4. Credential Types

path: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION > 3. LOCAL ADMINISTRATION > 25. EMPLOYEES > 2. Teacher Credentialing > 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) By July 1, 2002, the commission shall ensure that an accredited program of professional preparation offered pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259 satisfies standards established by the commission for the preparation of teachers for all pupils, including English language learners. The standards shall be based upon an independent job analysis of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities needed by all classroom teachers to develop English language skills while maintaining academic progress across the curriculum and shall take into account existing standards and test specifications for the Crosscultural, Language and Academic Development certificate. The commission shall ensure that the standards established pursuant to this subdivision are aligned with the requirements of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259 and Section 60200.4.

(b) To maintain current statutory options for teachers in completing credential requirements, the commission shall provide candidates, including candidates prepared in other states, with an examination route to fulfilling the requirements pursuant to subdivision (a) for essential preparation to teach English language learners. The commission shall provide for a comprehensive validity study of the examination before implementing this section.

(c) Commencing July 1, 2003, the commission may not issue a preliminary teaching credential to an applicant pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 44259 unless the applicant has satisfied the standards and requirements established pursuant to subdivision (a) or has an authorization to provide services to English language learners issued pursuant to Section 44253, 44253.1, 44253.2, 44253.3, 44253.4, or 44253.10.

(d) Commencing July 1, 2003, an approved program of beginning teacher induction offered pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 44259 shall satisfy standards established by the commission and the Superintendent of Public Instruction for beginning teacher induction for teachers for all pupils, including English language learners. The commission and the superintendent shall incorporate in these standards the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for first-year and second-year certificated teachers to apply effective instructional strategies that assist pupils to develop English language proficiency while maintaining academic progress across the curriculum. The standards shall be based upon the independent job analysis of the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities for all classroom teachers conducted pursuant to subdivision (a).

(e) Commencing July 1, 2005, the commission may not initially issue a professional clear teaching credential to an applicant pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 44259 unless the applicant has satisfied the standards and requirements established pursuant to subdivision (d) or has an authorization to provide services to English language learners issued pursuant to Section 44253, 44253.1, 44253.2, 44253.3, 44253.4, or 44253.10.

(f) No provision of this section applies to the University of California except to the extent that the Regents of the University of California, by appropriate resolution, make that provision applicable.

(g) A candidate for a teaching credential pursuant to Section 44259 is entitled to earn and receive the credential by fulfilling the standards and requirements for the credential that were in effect when the candidate entered accredited preparation or approved induction for the credential.

(h) By July 1, 2001, the commission shall report to the education policy committees in each house of the Legislature on the new standards it is required to develop pursuant to subdivision (a) and the progress of the implementation of the new standards by accredited programs of professional preparation.

(i) By July 1, 2002, the commission shall report to the education policy committees in each house of the Legislature on the outcomes and recommendations for the implementation of the validity study required pursuant to subdivision (b).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2001, Ch. 745, Sec. 18. Effective October 12, 2001.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: By September 1, 2022, the commission shall ensure that its standards of program quality and effectiveness for the preparation of candidates for the preliminary multiple subject credential, the preliminary single subject English language arts credential, and the preliminary education specialist credential, and the teaching performance expectations for the preliminary multiple subject credential, the preliminary single subject English language arts credential, and the preliminary education specialist credential, include and specify all of the requirements in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 678, Sec. 4. (SB 488) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: By September 1, 2024, the commission shall ensure that, in addition to the requirements of Section 44259.6, its standards of program quality and effectiveness for the preparation of candidates for the preliminary multiple subject credential, the preliminary single subject English language arts credential, and the preliminary education specialist credential, and the teaching performance expectations for the preliminary multiple subject credential, the preliminary single subject English language arts credential, and the preliminary education specialist credential, include all of the requirements of paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259, including those added by the act that added this section.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 678, Sec. 5. (SB 488) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) For the 2026–27 fiscal year, the commission shall use the funding appropriated in Item 6100–488 of the Budget Act of 2026 to enter into an agreement with a county office of education, consistent with applicable state procurement and information technology requirements, to collaborate on the design, development, and implementation of a statewide subject matter transcript review service. The selected entity shall deliver the system to the commission by July 1, 2027. The commission shall maintain and operate the service.

(b) The commission shall consult with institutions of higher education, including institutions that operate commission-approved teacher preparation programs, local educational agencies, and relevant experts in developing, calibrating, and evaluating the service.

(c) The service shall allow commission-approved teacher preparation programs and local educational agencies to submit candidate or employee transcripts and supporting materials to the commission for transcript review, as follows:

(1) The commission may identify the supporting materials necessary to complete a transcript review, including course catalog descriptions, syllabi, or other documentation needed to evaluate alignment with commission-adopted subject matter requirements.

(2) The commission shall establish a methodology for technology-supported analysis and human review to support consistent application of subject matter requirements.

(3) (A) A commission-approved educator preparation program may, before the adoption of the advisory analysis process described in subdivision (e), request an advisory analysis of transcripts and supporting materials.

(B) The commission shall, through the service, produce an advisory analysis in response to the request described in subparagraph (A) of the extent to which the submitted transcripts and supporting materials align with subject matter competency requirements.

(C) A commission-approved educator preparation program may review, affirm, modify, or rely on the advisory analysis for purposes of making its own determination of subject matter competency consistent with clause (iii) of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259.

(4) (A) A local educational agency may, upon the adoption of the advisory analysis process described in subdivision (e), request an advisory analysis of transcripts and supporting materials.

(B) The commission shall, through the service, produce an advisory analysis in response to the request described in subparagraph (A) of the extent to which the submitted transcripts and supporting materials align with subject matter competency requirements.

(d) The service shall comply with applicable state and federal privacy laws, security requirements, accessibility standards, and applicable artificial intelligence governance standards.

(e) (1) The commission shall, at a public meeting and following an opportunity for public comment, take action to adopt formal processes for producing advisory analyses through the service and making subject matter competency determinations through the service, subject to demonstrated accuracy, consistency, and reliability.

(2) The commission may adopt regulations as necessary to implement and administer this section.

(f) (1) On or before January 1, 2029, the commission shall report to the Legislature, consistent with Section 9795 of the Government Code, on implementation of the service, including usage and any recommendations for future policy or statutory changes.

(2) The requirement for submitting a report imposed pursuant to paragraph (1) is inoperative on January 1, 2033, pursuant to Section 10231.5 of the Government Code.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2026, Ch. 65, Sec. 62. (AB 126) Effective July 9, 2026.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The minimum requirements for the three-year preliminary designated subjects career technical education teaching credential shall be all of the following:

(a) Three years or the equivalent of adequate, successful, and recent experience in, or experience and education in, the subject named on the credential.

(b) Possession of a high school diploma or the passage of an equivalency examination as designated by the commission.

(c) Satisfaction of the requirements for teacher fitness pursuant to Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341.

(d) Commencing July 1, 2025, certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) that meets the standards established by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.

(e) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), the holder of a credential described in this section shall satisfy the minimum experience requirements established by the local educational agency for each course the credentialholder is assigned to teach.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 65, Sec. 1. (AB 2345) Effective January 1, 2025.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The minimum requirements for the five-year clear designated subjects career technical education teaching credential shall be all of the following:

(a) A valid three-year preliminary designated subjects career technical education teaching credential.

(b) Two years of successful teaching, or the equivalent, as authorized by the preliminary designated subjects career technical education teaching credential.

(c) Completion of a program of personalized preparation as approved by the commission. It is the intent of the Legislature that the program of personalized preparation be consistent with whether the credentialholder performs full- or part-time service.

(d) The study of health education, as specified in clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259.

(e) Completion of two semester units or passage of an examination on the principles and provisions of the United States Constitution, as specified in Section 44335.

(f) The study of computer-based technology, including the uses of technology in educational settings.

(g) Commencing July 1, 2025, certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) that meets the standards established by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross unless the applicant has already demonstrated their certification in CPR pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 44260.

(h) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), the holder of a credential described in this section shall satisfy the minimum experience requirements established by the local educational agency for each course the credentialholder is assigned to teach.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 67, Sec. 49. (AB 1170) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The minimum requirements for the three-year preliminary designated subjects adult education teaching credential shall be all of the following:

(a) For nonacademic subjects:

(1) Three years of adequate, successful, and recent experience in, or a combination of experience and education in, the nonacademic subject to be named on the credential.

(2) Possession of a high school diploma or the passage of an equivalency examination as designated by the commission.

(b) For academic subjects, a baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education that includes a minimum of 20 semester units, or the equivalent quarter units, of coursework in the subject to be named on the credential.

(c) Satisfaction of the requirements for teacher fitness pursuant to Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 38, Sec. 32. (SB 153) Effective June 29, 2024.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The minimum requirements for the five-year clear designated subjects adult education teaching credential shall be all of the following:

(a) A valid three-year preliminary designated subjects adult education teaching credential.

(b) Two years of successful teaching, or the equivalent, as authorized by the preliminary designated subjects adult education teaching credential.

(c) A program of personalized preparation as approved by the commission.

(d) The study of health education as specified in paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259.

(e) Completion of two semester units or passage of an examination on the principles and provisions of the United States Constitution, as specified in Section 44335.

(f) The study of computer-based technology, including the uses of technology in educational settings.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 427, Sec. 7. (AB 525) Effective January 1, 2020.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: The minimum requirements for the designated subjects special subjects teaching credential shall be appropriate to the special subject named on the credential, in accordance with the requirements established by the commission. Special subjects instruction may include, but shall not be limited to, driver education and training.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 1361, Sec. 7.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: The commission shall establish minimum requirements for the issuance and renewal of the designated subjects teaching credentials for part-time service. Designated subjects teaching credentials issued for part-time service shall not authorize service for more than one-half of a full-time teaching assignment.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 1361, Sec. 8.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The minimum requirements for the designated subjects supervision and coordination credential shall include all of the following:

(a) Possession of a designated subjects teaching credential, other than for part-time service.

(b) Three years of full-time teaching experience in the subject named on the designated subjects teaching credential.

(c) Completion of a commission-approved personalized preservice program in supervision and coordination.

(d) The designated subjects supervision and coordination credential shall authorize the holder to supervise and coordinate designated subjects classes and programs.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 1361, Sec. 9.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: The commission may develop alternative routes to the subject matter coursework requirements for the preliminary designated subjects credential in driver education and training, including approved staff development programs offered by school districts and county offices of education, if the alternative routes meet standards established by the commission.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1995, Ch. 447, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 1996.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The commission shall establish a list of authorized subjects for the designated subjects preliminary career technical education teaching credential issued pursuant to Section 44260. The list shall reflect the 15 industry sectors identified in the California career technical education model curriculum standards adopted by the state board. The commission also shall ensure that each designated subjects professional clear credential issued is consistent with the list of authorized subjects used for the preliminary credential. The commission shall implement the authorized subjects list by September 30, 2007.

(b) (1) The commission shall convene an advisory committee to review credential requirements for designated subjects career technical education teaching credentials and make recommendations for consolidating requirements for full-time and part-time service. It is the intent of the Legislature that the commission focus on streamlining the credential structure by identifying the essential skills needed for successful career technical instruction.

(2) By April 1, 2008, the commission shall make recommendations to the Legislature on the minimum requirements for designated subjects career technical education teaching credentials.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2007, Ch. 520, Sec. 3. Effective October 12, 2007.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: The minimum requirements for the multiple or single subject teaching credential with a designated emphasis shall be as specified in Section 44259.

history: (History: Repealed and added by Stats. 1992, Ch. 1245, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1993.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The Legislature finds and declares the following:

(1) The role of parents and guardians in the education of pupils and the development of children and youth is critically important.

(2) Active partnerships among parents, guardians, and professional educators are essential features of effective education.

(3) (A) Recent and anticipated changes in the conditions of childhood and adolescence, including, but not limited to, the changing family structure and ethnic and cultural diversity, make it more critical than before that partnerships among parents, guardians, and professional educators be effective.

(B) It is the intent of the Legislature that prospective teachers and certificated educators acquire needed perspectives to serve as active partners with parents and guardians in the education of pupils.

(b) The commission shall adopt standards and requirements pursuant to paragraphs (3) and (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259, Section 44265, Sections 44266 to 44270.1, inclusive, and Section 44372 that emphasize the preparation of prospective teachers and other certificated educators to serve as active partners with parents and guardians in the education of pupils. The standards shall address, through appropriate instruction and field experiences, the roles of parents and guardians in the educational process, strategies for involving and working with parents and guardians, and the changing conditions of childhood and adolescence, including, but not limited to, the changing family structure and ethnic and cultural diversity.

(c) An institution meets the standards set forth in subdivision (b) with the incorporation of appropriate content within existing professional preparation courses.

(d) The implementation of subdivision (b) as it applies to paragraphs (3) and (4) of Section 44259 shall occur in conjunction with the review of requirements for earning and renewing multiple and single subject teaching credentials, as required by subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 44259.2.

(e) The standards and requirements developed pursuant to subdivision (b) and the conditions described in subdivision (d) of this section shall not apply to any person holding a valid credential on December 31, 1993.

(f) The commission shall not, by regulation, revoke or restrict in any way a credential that was valid before the effective date of this section unless the commission issues the holder of the credential a valid substitute credential. The authorization of the substitute credential shall not be more restrictive than that of the former credential. The definition of the term “authorization,” in subdivision (a) of Section 44203, applies to this subdivision.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 663, Sec. 15. (AB 320) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
Upon the recommendation of the governing board of a school district, the commission may issue an eminence credential to any person who has achieved eminence in a field of endeavor taught or service practiced in the public schools of California. This credential shall authorize teaching or the performance of services in the public schools in the subject or subject area or service and at the level or levels approved by the commission as designated on the credential.

Each credential so issued shall be issued initially for a two-year period and may be renewed for a three-year period by the commission upon the request of the governing board of the school district. Upon completion of the three-year renewal period, the holder of an eminence credential shall be eligible upon application for a professional clear teaching credential.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 1067, Sec. 7. Effective January 1, 1997.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Upon recommendation of the tribal government of a federally recognized Indian tribe in California, the commission shall issue an American Indian language-culture credential to a candidate who has met the following requirements:

(1) (A) For the American Indian language authorization, demonstrated fluency in that tribe’s language based on an assessment developed and administered by that federally recognized Indian tribe pursuant to subdivision (e).

(B) For the American Indian culture authorization, demonstrated knowledge in that tribe’s culture based on an assessment developed and administered by that federally recognized Indian tribe pursuant to subdivision (e).

(C) Candidates meeting the requirements of both subparagraphs (A) and (B) shall be granted both the American Indian language and the American Indian culture authorizations.

(2) Successfully completed a criminal background check conducted under Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341 for credentialing purposes.

(3) Submitted an application, fee, and recommendation for the credential to the commission through the federally recognized Indian tribe.

(b) The American Indian language-culture credential shall authorize the holder to teach the American Indian language, or culture, or both, for which the credential was issued in California public schools in preschool, kindergarten, grades 1 to 12, inclusive, and in adult education courses.

(c) The holder of an American Indian language-culture credential who does not also have a valid teaching credential issued by the State of California shall not teach in a public school, including a charter school, any subject other than the American Indian language, or culture, or both, for which he or she is credentialed.

(d) Each American Indian language-culture credential shall be issued initially for a two-year period and may be renewed for a three-year period upon recommendation of the tribal government. Upon completion of the three-year period, the holder of an American Indian language-culture credential shall be eligible for a clear teaching credential for that language upon application and the recommendation of the tribal government, in consultation with the applicant’s public school employer.

(e) (1) Each federally recognized American Indian tribe is encouraged to develop a written and oral assessment that should be successfully completed before an applicant is recommended for an American Indian language-culture credential.

(2) In developing the language assessment, an Indian tribe should determine all of the following:

(A) Which dialects of the tribal language will be included in the assessment.

(B) Whether the Indian tribe will standardize its writing system.

(C) The standard of knowledge and fluency required to qualify for an American Indian language authorization in that tribal language.

(D) Standards for effective teaching methods to be evaluated in the classroom.

(3) In developing the culture assessment, an Indian tribe should determine all of the following:

(A) The candidate’s understanding of the tribe’s culture and its practices, including, but not limited to, ceremonies and traditions, social institutions and relationships, holidays and festivals, health practices and traditions, patterns of work and leisure, and culinary traditions and practices.

(B) The standard of knowledge required to qualify for an American Indian culture authorization in that tribal culture.

(C) Standards for effective teaching methods to be evaluated in the classroom.

(4) The assessment should be administered at an appropriate location that does not create hardship for members of the Indian tribe administering the assessment.

(f) Upon agreement by the tribe, a tribe recommending a candidate for an American Indian language-culture credential shall develop and administer a technical assistance program guided by the California Standards for the Teaching Profession. To the extent feasible, the program shall be offered by teachers credentialed in an American Indian language, or culture, or both, who have three or more years of teaching experience. The technical assistance program may consist of direct classroom observation and consultation, assistance in instructional planning and preparation, support in implementation and delivery of classroom instruction, and other assistance intended to enhance the professional performance and development of the teacher of an American Indian language, or culture, or both.

(g) Public school personnel responsible for evaluating teachers, in accordance with local governing board policy, shall provide individuals employed to teach on the basis of the American Indian language-culture credential with information on the teaching personnel evaluation process and the California Standards for the Teaching Profession.

(h) For a candidate who has already received an American Indian languages credential before the effective date of this section, the tribe that recommended the candidate for the American Indian languages credential shall determine if the candidate may add the American Indian culture authorization to the preexisting languages credential, or if the candidate must reapply for the American Indian culture authorization as a new initial credential pursuant to subdivision (a).

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2015, Ch. 64, Sec. 1. (AB 163) Effective January 1, 2016.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: A teacher licensed pursuant to the provisions of this article may be assigned, with his or her consent, to teach a single subject class in which he or she has 18 semester hours of coursework or nine semester hours of upper division or graduate coursework or a multiple subject class if he or she holds at least 60 semester hours equally distributed among the 10 areas of a diversified major set forth in Section 44314. A three-semester-unit variance in any of the required 10 areas may be allowed. The governing board of the school district by resolution shall provide specific authorization for the assignment. The authorization of the governing board shall remain valid for one year and may be renewed annually.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 53, Sec. 5. (SB 512) Effective January 1, 2010.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person holding a credential issued under the laws and regulations in effect on or before December 31, 1971, authorizing teaching in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, or grades 7 to 9, inclusive, in the secondary schools may be assigned, with his or her consent, to teach any subject authorized on his or her credential in grades 5 and 6 or grade 5 or grade 6 in a departmentalized program in a school composed of grades 5, 6, 7, and 8 or grades 6, 7, and 8.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person holding a credential issued under the laws and regulations in effect on or before December 31, 1971, authorizing administration in grades 7 to 12, inclusive, in the secondary schools may be assigned, with his or her consent, to provide administration for grades 5 and 6 or grade 6, in a school composed of grades 5, 6, 7, and 8 or grades 6, 7, and 8.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1986, Ch. 171, Sec. 2.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Credentials for teaching specialties, including, but not limited to, bilingual education, early childhood education, and special education, shall be based upon a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education, completion of a program of professional preparation, and any other standards which the commission may establish.

(b) In adopting the necessary rules and regulations establishing the requirements for the preparation of special education specialties, the commission shall ensure that teachers have sufficient knowledge of subject matter that is the core of the California public school curriculum and experience with nonspecial education pupils to the extent deemed appropriate by the commission.

(c) All administrative regulations governing special education specialists credentials that were in effect on December 31, 1989, shall continue to be operative until the commission amends or repeals those regulations to implement this section.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 663, Sec. 16. (AB 320) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) No later than January 1, 2028, the commission shall ensure that its standards of program quality and effectiveness for the preparation of candidates for the reading and literacy leadership specialist credential and the reading and literacy added authorization, and the teaching performance expectations for the preparation of candidates for the reading and literacy leadership specialist credential and the reading and literacy added authorization include preparation on how to deliver instruction and support teachers to deliver instruction through effective means for teaching literacy, aligned to all of the following:

(1) The English Language Arts/English Language Development (ELA/ELD) Framework, including instruction to meet the varied language development needs of English learners.

(2) Evidence-based means of teaching foundational reading skills, which shall include explicit and systematic instruction in print concepts, phonological awareness, phonics and word recognition, and fluency to all pupils, and attending to oral and written language development, vocabulary and background knowledge, and comprehension, including tiered supports for pupils with reading difficulties, English learners, and pupils with exceptional needs.

(3) The program guidelines for dyslexia developed pursuant to Section 56335.

(b) It is the intent of the Legislature that candidates for the reading and literacy leadership specialist credential and the reading and literacy added authorization are prepared to deliver instruction and support teachers to deliver instruction through effective means for teaching literacy in programs in which English learner pupils are being instructed in their primary languages.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 471, Sec. 1. (AB 1454) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) A program sponsor may offer comparability and equivalency to a special education credentialholder seeking to add a special education authorization to his or her credential. The following are guidelines for offering comparability and equivalency, subject to criteria and guidelines issued by the commission:

(1) Decisions regarding comparability are at the discretion of the program sponsor.

(2) A program sponsor has a broad range of possible data that may be considered as evidence for comparability.

(3) For a candidate simultaneously pursuing a degree in addition to earning a credential, a program sponsor may use its own institutional process and procedure for course credit evaluations.

(b) Evidence used to verify competency may include the following, subject to criteria and guidelines issued by the commission:

(1) Examination results.

(2) A portfolio.

(3) A performance narrative.

(4) Field experience.

(5) Video.

(6) Transcripts.

(7) Prior learning assessment.

(8) A review board process.

(c) A program sponsor may use the following to evaluate evidence for comparability presented by a candidate, subject to criteria and guidelines issued by the commission:

(1) Whether the information is based on current, adopted California credential standards, as appropriate to the authorization sought.

(2) Whether a written agreement between the candidate and program sponsor is evidence based, as appropriate to the authorization sought.

(3) Whether the information is aligned with the California Standards for the Teaching Profession.

(d) Flexible enrollment may be considered for a candidate who needs minimal work to complete a credential program. A program sponsor may explore alternatives for candidate enrollment in the program, including, but not limited to, visitor status, concurrent enrollment, open university, county or district programs, university extension programs, and professional development activities.

(e) A program sponsor may take advantage of frequent collaborations to formalize a written agreement concerning comparability of coursework or fieldwork. The agreement may be created to meet the needs of the individual program or the individual candidate.

(f) A candidate may be granted recognition and credit for his or her life and learning experience through a prior learning assessment in which the candidate has the opportunity to demonstrate how his or her experience and learning are comparable to the commission program standard.

(g) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Equivalency” means the determination, through an evaluation process, that a set of knowledge, skills, and abilities required by a commission program standard has been met through coursework, fieldwork, or prior learning experience.

(2) “Comparability” means the determination that a candidate has demonstrated the essence of a set of knowledge, skills, and abilities required by a commission program standard through another route.

(3) “Prior learning assessment” means a process through which a person develops a portfolio of life experiences, training, or preparation experience that establishes the basis for meeting the commission program standard.

(4) “Program sponsor” means a university-based or local educational agency-based program approved by the commission.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2013, Ch. 717, Sec. 1. (SB 368) Effective January 1, 2014.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Commencing January 1, 2007, the Commission on Teacher Credentialing shall issue the following credentials:

(1) A preliminary credential in speech-language pathology, to an individual who has been recommended by a commission-accredited program sponsor and who holds or has been recommended for a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Council on Academic Accreditation. The preliminary credential shall be valid for a period of two years.

(2) A professional clear credential in speech-language pathology to an individual who satisfies all of the following criteria:

(A) The individual holds a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Council on Academic Accreditation, or an equivalent degree or academic program, as determined by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

(B) The individual has achieved a passing score, as determined by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s certification requirements on the Educational Testing Service’s national teachers’ Praxis series written test in speech-language pathology or a successor exam.

(C) The individual has completed a mentored practical experience period, in the form of a 36-week, full-time mentored clinical experience, or an equivalent supervised practicum, as deemed by the commission.

(D) The individual satisfies other typical commission credentialing processing requirements, including, but not limited to, forms, fees, and fingerprint clearances.

(b) It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to align the state credentialing requirements for personnel standards for California speech-language pathologists with standards for Medi-Cal local educational agency reimbursement, in order to ensure continued funding for the Local Education Agency (LEA) Medi-Cal Billing Option Program.

(c) A credential issued by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing on or before January 1, 2007, authorizing speech, language, and hearing services, shall continue to be valid, subject to commission renewal requirements.

(d) Upon renewal of a credential initially issued on or before January 1, 2007, the credentialholder shall have the option of renewing the credential under the standards applicable prior to January 1, 2007, or to update the credential to satisfy the requirements of subdivision (a). At any time after January 1, 2007, the credentialholder may update his or her credential, upon submission of an application and fee, and verification of requirements met in accordance with subdivision (a).

(e) To the extent allowable, as determined by the federal government, services provided by an individual with a credential for speech-language pathology, as specified in this section, shall be billable through the LEA Medi-Cal Billing Option Program.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2006, Ch. 581, Sec. 1. Effective September 28, 2006. Operative, by Sec. 3 of Ch. 581, on date the Attorney General issues an opinion of a specified nature.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Pupils who are visually impaired shall be taught by teachers whose professional preparation and credential authorization are specific to that impairment.

(b) Pupils who are deaf or hard of hearing shall be taught by teachers whose professional preparation and credential authorization are specific to that impairment.

(c) Pupils who are orthopedically impaired shall be taught by teachers whose professional preparation and credential authorization are specific to that impairment.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 1288, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1995.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Upon the request of an employing school district, county office of education, or state special school, the Commission on Teacher Credentialing shall determine specific requirements for and issue a one-year specialist instruction emergency permit, solely for the purpose of instructing deaf or hard-of-hearing pupils, to a prelingually deaf candidate upon medical or other appropriate professional verifications.

(b) The applicant is exempted from the requirements in Section 44252 and subdivision (b) of Section 44830.

(c) “Prelingually deaf” means, for purposes of this section, having suffered a hearing loss before three years of age that prevents the processing of linguistic information through hearing, with or without amplification.

(d) The emergency specialist instruction permit issued under this section authorizes the holder to teach deaf and hard-of-hearing pupils who are enrolled in state special schools or in special classes for pupils who are deaf or hard of hearing.

(e) A one-year specialist instruction emergency permit issued pursuant to subdivision (a) may be reissued at the request of the employing school district, county office of education, or state special school in accordance with criteria determined by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 561, Sec. 34. (AB 1516) Effective January 1, 2018.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Upon the recommendation of a preliminary credential preparation program sponsor approved by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, the commission shall issue a two-year nonrenewable preliminary teaching credential or preliminary services credential to a candidate who is prelingually deaf and meets all of the requirements in law for the full, pertinent five-year teaching or services credential pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 44251, except that the candidate is exempt from compliance with the state basic skills proficiency testing requirements in Section 44252 and subdivision (b) of Section 44830.

(b) A credential issued under this section authorizes the holder to teach or provide services, as authorized by the credential, only to deaf and hard-of-hearing pupils who are enrolled in state special schools or in special classes for pupils who are deaf or hard of hearing.

(c) For purposes of this section “prelingually deaf” means a person who suffered hearing loss before three years of age, which prevents the processing of linguistic information through hearing, with or without amplification, if the condition is verified through medical or other appropriate professional means.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 94, Sec. 5. (AB 1709) Effective January 1, 2017.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The Commission on Teacher Credentialing shall develop criteria to verify the proficiency of a holder of a credential issued under Section 44265.8 in performing the essential functions of his or her position.

(b) The school district, county office of education, or state special school that employs a holder of a credential issued under Section 42265.8 shall appoint a three-person panel to verify proficiency using the criteria the commission develops for this purpose. The panel shall report its findings to the employing school district, county office of education, or state special school, which may adopt those findings.

(c) The panel appointed pursuant to subdivision (b) shall consist of the following:

(1) A school administrator who is selected by school administrators of the employing school district, county office of education, or state special school.

(2) An individual who is the parent of a deaf or hard-of-hearing pupil and who is selected by a school-related parent group.

(3) A teacher or school services provider who holds a credential to teach or service deaf or hard-of-hearing pupils and who is selected by teachers at the employing school.

(d) The employing school district, county office of education, or state special school shall ensure that the panel completes the verification of proficiency within two years after the issuance of the credential issued under Section 44265.8.

(e) Upon verification of proficiency, as documented by the employing school district, county office of education, or state special school, the commission shall issue a credential for the remainder of the preliminary period pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 44251 that is limited to providing the instruction authorized by the credential to deaf and hard-of-hearing pupils enrolled in state special schools or in special classes, or a services credential for the remainder of the preliminary period that is limited to the provision of services authorized by the credential for deaf and hard-of-hearing pupils enrolled in state special schools or in special classes.

(f) Upon meeting the requirements for a professional clear teaching or services credential, the applicant may apply through their commission-approved professional clear program sponsor for a professional clear credential that is limited to providing the instruction or service authorized by the credential to deaf and hard-of-hearing pupils enrolled in state special schools or in special classes.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 94, Sec. 6. (AB 1709) Effective January 1, 2017.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The minimum requirements for the services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services are a baccalaureate degree or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education, a fifth year of study, and any specialized and professional preparation that the commission shall require, including (1) completion of a commission-approved program of supervised field experience that includes direct classroom contact, jointly sponsored by a school district and a college or university or (2) a program of professional preparation pursuant to subdivision (d).

(b) The services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services shall authorize the holder to perform, at all grade levels, the pupil personnel service approved by the commission as designated on the credential, which may include, but need not be limited to, school counseling, school psychology, child welfare and attendance services, and school social work.

(c) The commission shall continue to issue credentials with a specialization in pupil personnel services under the law as it read on December 31, 1986, for a time period of two years from the effective date of regulations adopted for the issuance of certificates under the new program required by this section, to any candidate in the process of obtaining a services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services through a previously approved program of study.

(d) (1) For a services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services, the commission may approve a program of professional preparation offered by a local educational agency if the program of professional preparation meets standards of program quality and effectiveness that have been adopted by the commission.

(2) For a services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services in any area other than the area of child welfare and attendance, a program of professional preparation approved pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be in partnership with a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 375, Sec. 2. (AB 606) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) (1) Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter, the commission shall issue a preliminary professional services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services to an out-of-state prepared applicant who meets all of the following requirements:

(A) Possesses a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

(B) Has earned a valid corresponding pupil personnel services credential specialization in school counseling, school social work, or school psychology, based upon an out-of-state preparation program.

(C) Has successfully completed a criminal background check conducted under Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341 for credentialing purposes.

(2) A preliminary professional services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be (A) valid for a period of two years and (B) eligible for renewal for a period of no more than two years so long as the credentialholder demonstrates satisfactory progress, as determined by the local educational agency that employs the credentialholder pursuant to the local educational agency’s established criteria.

(b) For purposes of this section, “local educational agency” means a school district, county office of education, or charter school.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 375, Sec. 3. (AB 606) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The minimum requirements for a services credential with a specialization in health are:

(a) Five years, or its equivalent, of college or university education, or five years of professional preparation approved by the commission.

(b) Possession of a valid license, certificate, or registration, appropriate to the health service to be designated, issued by the California agency authorized by law to license, certificate, or register persons to practice that health service in California.

(c) Such additional requirements as may be prescribed by the commission.

The services credential with a specialization in health shall authorize the holder to perform, at all grade levels, the health service approved by the commission as designated on the credential. Services as an audiometrist, occupational therapist, or physical therapist are not deemed health services within the meaning of this section.

history: (History: Enacted by Stats. 1976, Ch. 1010.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The minimum requirements for a services credential with a specialization in health for a school nurse are all of the following:

(1) A baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

(2) A valid California license as a registered nurse.

(3) One year of coursework beyond the baccalaureate degree in a program approved by the commission.

(b) The period for which a services credential with a specialization in health for a school nurse is valid shall be as follows:

(1) For a preliminary credential, pending completion of the one year of coursework beyond the baccalaureate degree in a program approved by the commission, five years.

(2) For the professional credential, after completion of requirements specified by the commission, five years.

(c) The services credential with a specialization in health for a school nurse shall authorize the holder to perform, in grades 12 and below, the health services approved by the commission and designated on the credential.

(d) The holder of a services credential with a specialization in health for a school nurse who also completes the requirements for a special class authorization in health in a program that is approved by the commission is authorized to teach classes on health in preschool, kindergarten, grades 1 to 12, inclusive, and classes organized primarily for adults.

(e) For the purposes of the requirement in paragraph (3) of subdivision (a), the commission may approve a program offered by a local educational agency, which had 40,000 or more pupils enrolled during the 2019–20 school year, for one year of coursework beyond the baccalaureate degree. The commission shall apply the standards for approval of a program of professional preparation offered by a postsecondary educational institution to a program of professional preparation offered by a local educational agency.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 668, Sec. 1. (AB 815) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The minimum requirements for a services credential in a specialization in clinical or rehabilitative services are:

(a) A baccalaureate degree or higher degree from an institution approved by the commission.

(b) A fifth year, or its equivalent, of college or university education.

(c) Such specialized and professional preparation as the commission may require.

The services credential with a specialization in clinical or rehabilitative services shall authorize the holder to perform, at all grade levels, the service approved by the commission as designated on the credential. Clinical or rehabilitative services which may be designated by the commission include, but need not be limited to, speech, language, and hearing services.

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The commission may issue a services credential authorizing service as a library media teacher upon completion of specialized preparation as required by the commission.

The standards for these credentials are a baccalaureate degree or higher degree from an institution approved by the commission, a valid teaching credential, and specialized and professional preparation as the commission may require.

Whenever the term “librarian” or “library media teacher” is used in this article, it shall be deemed to refer to “teacher librarian.”

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2007, Ch. 730, Sec. 16. Effective January 1, 2008.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The minimum requirements for the preliminary services credential with a specialization in administrative services are all of the following:

(1) Possession of one of the following:

(A) A valid teaching credential requiring the possession of a baccalaureate degree and a professional preparation program including student teaching.

(B) A valid designated subjects career technical education, adult education, or special subjects teaching credential, as specified in Section 44260, 44260.1, 44260.2, 44260.3, or 44260.4, provided the candidate also possesses a baccalaureate degree.

(C) A valid services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel, health, or clinical or rehabilitative services, as specified in Section 44266, 44267, 44267.5, or 44268, or a valid services credential authorizing service as a teacher librarian, as specified in Section 44269.

(D) (i) A valid license to practice occupational therapy issued by the California Board of Occupational Therapy or a valid license to practice physical therapy issued by the Physical Therapy Board of California.

(ii) A preliminary administrative services credential issued to an individual based, in part, on clause (i) shall not authorize the supervision or evaluation of teachers unless the employing local educational agency determines that the individual possesses additional educational or job experience, leadership training, or an advanced degree that qualifies the individual for the responsibilities of a school administrator.

(E) A valid credential issued under the laws, rules, and regulations in effect on or before December 31, 1971, which authorizes the same areas as in subparagraphs (B) and (C).

(2) (A) Completion of a minimum of five years of one or more of the following:

(i) Successful, full-time classroom teaching experience in the public schools, including, but not limited to, service in state- or county-operated schools, or in regionally accredited private schools of equivalent status.

(ii) Successful, full-time experience in the fields of pupil personnel, health, clinical or rehabilitative, or librarian services.

(iii) Successful, full-time experience as a school-based occupational therapist or physical therapist.

(B) A local educational agency may request a waiver of up to two years of the experience required pursuant to subparagraph (A) for a candidate who (i) completes an administrative services program approved by the commission, (ii) holds an appropriate clear or life prerequisite credential or license, and (iii) has been offered employment in an administrative position by the local educational agency.

(3) Completion of one of the following:

(A) An entry-level program of specialized and professional preparation in administrative services approved by the commission.

(B) (i) A one-year internship in a program of supervised training in administrative services that is provided by a school district, county office of education, or regionally accredited institution of higher education and that is approved by the commission as satisfying the requirements for the preliminary services credential with a specialization in administrative services.

(ii) The commission shall examine its preservice, professional development, and supervision requirements for the internship programs identified in clause (i) when the commission next considers administrative services credential pathways.

(4) Current employment in an administrative position after completion of professional preparation as defined in paragraph (3), whether full or part time, in a public school or regionally accredited private school of equivalent status. The commission shall encourage school districts to consider the recency of preparation or professional growth in school administration as one of the criteria for employment.

(b) The preliminary administrative services credential shall be valid for a period of five years from the date of initial employment in an administrative position, whether full or part time, and shall not be renewable.

(c) For purposes of this section, “local educational agency” means a school district, county office of education, or charter school.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 629, Sec. 1.5. (AB 1009) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The minimum requirements for the professional services credential with a specialization in administrative services are all of the following:

(1) Possession of a valid preliminary administrative services credential, as specified in Section 44270.

(2) A minimum of two years of successful experience in a full-time administrative position in a public school or private school of equivalent status, while holding the preliminary administrative services credential, as attested by the employing school district or agency, including, but not limited to, the department, in the case of state school administrators, and county offices of education, in the case of county school administrators.

(3) Completion of a commission-approved program of advanced preparation. Each candidate, in consultation with employing school district personnel and university personnel, shall develop an individualized program of professional development activities for this advanced preparation program based upon individual needs. Each individualized program will include university coursework and may include, nonuniversity activities or advanced administrative field experiences. The commission shall adopt standards and criteria for the university programs of advanced preparation and nonuniversity activities.

(b) The commission may, at the request of a credential candidate, grant a waiver, pursuant to subdivision (m) of Section 44225, of the requirement of university coursework upon its finding that the candidate, in consultation with personnel of the employing school district and personnel of the university, is not able to develop an individualized program of professional development for the advanced preparation program that meets the individual needs of the candidates.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2006, Ch. 517, Sec. 11. Effective January 1, 2007.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
The services credential with a specialization in administrative services shall authorize the holder to perform administrative services at all grade levels.

Any person who administers a pupil personnel program shall hold a services credential with a pupil personnel or administrative specialization.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1993, Ch. 378, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1994.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter, the commission shall issue a preliminary services credential with a specialization in administrative services to an out-of-state trained administrator who meets all of the following requirements:

(a) Possesses a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

(b) Completed a teacher preparation program at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, was issued an elementary, secondary, or special education teaching credential based upon that program, and served on that credential for at least three years.

(c) Completed an administrator preparation program at a regionally accredited institution of higher education and was issued, or qualified for, an administrative services credential based upon that program.

(d) Submitted fingerprint cards and met the requirements of California for teacher fitness pursuant to Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 38, Sec. 33. (SB 153) Effective June 29, 2024.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter, the commission shall issue a professional services credential with a specialization in administrative services to an out-of-state trained administrator who meets all of the following requirements:

(a) Possesses a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

(b) Successfully passed the basic skills proficiency test administered pursuant to Section 44252.5.

(c) Completed a teacher preparation program at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, was issued an elementary, secondary, or special education teaching credential based upon that program, and served on that credential for at least three years.

(d) Completed an administrator preparation program at a regionally accredited institution of higher education and was issued an administrative services credential based upon that program.

(e) Submitted to the commission a minimum of two rigorous performance evaluations, one in each of the applicant’s two most recent years of service as an administrator, upon which the applicant received ratings of satisfactory or better.

(f) Successfully served as a public school administrator for at least three years or successfully completed an individual program of professional development that included intensive mentoring, assistance, and support as certified by the employing school district.

(g) Submitted fingerprint cards and met the requirements of California for teacher fitness pursuant to Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2000, Ch. 703, Sec. 4. Effective September 27, 2000.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter and as an expedited alternative to Section 44270, the commission may issue a preliminary services credential with a specialization in administrative services to a candidate who completes the following requirements:

(1) Possess a teaching or services credential as specified in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 44270.

(2) Completes the experience requirement specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 44270.

(3) Successfully passes a test adopted by the commission, upon a finding by the commission that the test is aligned to state administrator preparation standards.

(b) Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter and as an alternative to Section 44270.1, the commission may issue a professional clear services credential with a specialization in administrative services to a candidate who holds or is eligible for a preliminary services credential with a specialization in administrative services, and who meets one of the following requirements:

(1) Successfully completes a program that is accredited by the commission for the professional clear services credential with a specialization in administrative services and receives a recommendation for the credential from the program.

(2) Demonstrates mastery of commission accredited fieldwork performance standards for a professional clear services credential with a specialization in administrative services, and receives a recommendation for the professional clear services credential with a specialization in administrative services from a commission accredited program. The fieldwork performance standards required pursuant to this paragraph shall be as rigorous as all other fieldwork performance standards required by the commission to obtain a professional clear services credential with a specialization in administrative services.

(3) Passes a national administrator performance assessment adopted by the commission.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 225, Sec. 2. Effective August 16, 2002.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) No later than September 1, 2028, the commission shall ensure that the program standards for the professional preparation of candidates for a preliminary services credential with a specialization in administrative services established pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) of Section 44270 include preparation on how to support teachers in delivering instruction through effective means for teaching literacy, aligned to all of the following:

(1) The English Language Arts/English Language Development (ELA/ELD) Framework, including instruction to meet the varied language development needs of English learners.

(2) Evidence-based means of teaching foundational reading skills, which shall include explicit and systematic instruction in print concepts, phonological awareness, phonics and word recognition, and fluency to all pupils, and attending to oral and written language development, vocabulary and background knowledge, and comprehension, including tiered supports for pupils with reading difficulties, English learners, and pupils with exceptional needs.

(3) The program guidelines for dyslexia developed pursuant to Section 56335.

(b) The commission shall confirm that administrative preparation programs implement the standards pursuant to this section.

(c) It is the intent of the Legislature that candidates for a preliminary services credential with a specialization in administrative services are prepared to support teachers to deliver instruction through effective means for teaching literacy in programs in which English learner pupils are being instructed in their primary languages.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 471, Sec. 2. (AB 1454) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: The designated subjects teaching credential with a specialization in vocational trade and technical teaching shall authorize the holder, who also meets the requirements for administrative service, to supervise and administer programs of trade and technical education in school districts or in schools where the curricula are predominately trade, technical, or industrial in nature.

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: The commission may issue limited services credentials authorizing administrative service in schools which are not part of the public school system but which are administered by other state agencies.

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, any credential described in Section 44250 shall be issued to an applicant under the following circumstances:

(a) The commission has accepted, upon application of an approved institution supported by detailed data and justification, a program developed and offered by that institution as an experimental, exploratory, or pilot program of preparation for such a credential. The commission shall accept only those programs that it finds, by resolution entered in its minutes, to have merit and the potential of improving the quality of service authorized by the credential.

(b) The applicant has completed such a program following the date of its acceptance by the commission.

(c) The applicant holds upon completion of the credential program a baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

(d) The applicant meets all of the requirements of this chapter and the regulations of the commission adopted pursuant thereto, respecting age, character, citizenship, health, identification, oath or affirmation, and study of or examination in the Constitution of the United States.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 663, Sec. 18. (AB 320) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter, the commission shall issue a five-year preliminary multiple subject teaching credential authorizing instruction in a self-contained classroom, a five-year preliminary single subject teaching credential authorizing instruction in departmentalized classes, or a five-year preliminary education specialist credential authorizing instruction of special education pupils to an out-of-state prepared teacher who meets all of the following requirements:

(1) Possesses a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

(2) Has completed a teacher preparation program at a regionally accredited institution of higher education or a state-approved teacher preparation program offered by a local educational agency.

(3) Meets the subject matter knowledge requirements for the credential. If the subject area listed on the out-of-state credential does not correspond to a California subject area, as specified in Sections 44257 and 44282, the commission may require the applicant to meet California subject matter requirements before issuing a clear credential.

(4) Has earned a valid corresponding elementary, secondary, or special education teaching credential based upon the out-of-state teacher preparation program. For the education specialist credential, the commission shall determine the area of concentration based on the special education program completed out of state, or shall allow the candidate to demonstrate the area of concentration based on two years of experience in California, while the candidate holds the preliminary credential.

(5) Has successfully completed a criminal background check conducted under Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341 for credentialing purposes.

(b) The commission shall issue a clear multiple subject, single subject, or education specialist teaching credential to an applicant who satisfies the requirements of subdivision (a), provides verification of two or more years of teaching experience, including, but not necessarily limited to, two satisfactory performance evaluations, and documents, in a manner prescribed by the commission, that the applicant has met the state requirements for teaching English learners, including, but not necessarily limited to, the requirements in Section 44253.3 or 44259.5.

(c) For applicants who do not meet the experience requirement described in subdivision (b), the commission shall issue a clear multiple subject, single subject, or education specialist teaching credential upon verification of the following requirements:

(1) The commission has issued to the applicant a preliminary five-year teaching credential pursuant to subdivision (a). However, an out-of-state prepared applicant in both special education and general education, who has earned a clear California education specialist credential, shall be granted a clear multiple subject or clear single subject teaching credential without first holding a preliminary multiple subject or single subject teaching credential, unless the commission determines that the applicant does not meet the other requirements of this subdivision.

(2) The applicant has completed a beginning teacher induction program pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 44259.

(3) The applicant has met the requirements for teaching English learners, including, but not necessarily limited to, the requirements in Section 44253.3 or 44259.5.

(d) If an out-of-state teaching credential authorizes the credentialholder to teach a commonly taught subject, in addition to the authorization described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), the commission shall issue the multiple subject or single subject teaching credential along with an authorization to teach that subject consistent with subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 44256.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 831, Sec. 3. (AB 2473) Effective September 28, 2024.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the commission shall issue a five-year preliminary single subject teaching credential authorizing instruction in departmentalized classes to an individual who satisfies all of the following requirements:

(1) Possesses a valid visiting faculty permit issued pursuant to Section 44300.1.

(2) Submits evidence of two years of recent satisfactory or better performance evaluations from the district while teaching pursuant to a visiting faculty permit.

(3) Satisfies the standards and requirements regarding the instruction of English language learners pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 44259.5.

(4) Satisfies the methodology course requirement in paragraph (5) of subdivision (a) of Section 44300.1.

(b) An applicant for a credential pursuant to this section is exempt from the basic skills proficiency requirement in Section 44252.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2007, Ch. 723, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 2008.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
Unless the commission determines that substantial evidence exists that the individual is unqualified to teach, upon the recommendation of the governing board of the school district employing the individual, and notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the commission shall issue a five-year professional clear single subject teaching credential authorizing instruction in departmentalized classes to an individual who satisfies all of the following requirements:

(a) Possesses a valid preliminary single subject teaching credential issued pursuant to Section 44274.3.

(b) Submits verification by the employing school district that the individual has completed an individualized professional development plan tailored to the needs of the individual teacher and the district that includes mentoring, support, and assistance provided by a credentialed, experienced teacher who teaches the same subject as the applicant. The individualized professional development plan shall include instruction and information about the appropriate academic content standards and curriculum frameworks to enable candidates to provide standards-based instruction and shall also include instruction on working with special populations. For purposes of satisfying the requirements of this section, an applicant may complete a beginning teacher induction program as described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 44259.

(c) Submits verification of experience that addresses clause (i) of subparagraph (B) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 427, Sec. 9. (AB 525) Effective January 1, 2020.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text: Notwithstanding Section 44227, Section 44259, or any other provision of this chapter, an applicant who holds a valid teaching credential from a state other than California, and who has met, at a minimum, every requirement for a California professional multiple or single subject credential except the requirement of completion of a fifth year of study, may request the commission to determine whether the applicant has completed at least equivalent coursework. If the commission determines that the applicant has completed at least equivalent coursework, the commission shall issue the applicant an appropriate credential, if the applicant has submitted a fingerprint card and has met the requirements of California for teacher fitness by obtaining a certificate of clearance or eligibility, a credential, or a permit from the commission.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1998, Ch. 547, Sec. 4. Effective September 18, 1998.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
Notwithstanding any other law:

(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that both of the following occur:

(1) That this section provide flexibility to enable school districts to recruit credentialed elementary, secondary, and special education teachers prepared in countries other than the United States to relocate temporarily or permanently to this state.

(2) That any and all teachers prepared in countries other than the United States who are granted a California teaching credential pursuant to this section fully meet the requirements of this state.

(b) Coursework, programs, or degrees completed at an institution of higher education outside of the United States are acceptable toward certification when the commission or an evaluating agency approved by the commission determines that the institution’s coursework, programs, or degrees are equivalent to those offered by a regionally accredited institution of higher education in the United States. The commission reserves the right to accept or reject an approved evaluating agency’s determination. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the commission shall issue a five-year preliminary multiple subject teaching credential authorizing instruction in a self-contained classroom, a five-year preliminary single subject teaching credential authorizing instruction in a departmentalized classroom, or a five-year preliminary education specialist credential authorizing instruction of special education pupils to a teacher prepared in a country other than the United States who meets both of the following requirements:

(1) The teacher holds or is eligible for a credential from another country that required a baccalaureate or higher degree determined to be equivalent to those offered by a regionally accredited institution of higher education in the United States and completion of a professional preparation program approved by the appropriate agency in the country where the program was completed that requires the teacher to meet requirements equivalent to the multiple or single subject teaching credential requirements in Section 44259 or the special education credential requirements described in Section 44265. The commission shall determine the area of concentration for the California education specialist credential based on the special education program completed out of country.

(2) The teacher successfully completes a criminal background check conducted pursuant to Sections 44339, 44340, and 44341 for credentialing purposes.

(c) The commission shall issue a clear multiple subject, single subject, or education specialist teaching credential to a teacher prepared in a country other than the United States who has met the requirements in subdivision (b) and who meets the following requirements:

(1) Demonstration of subject matter competence pursuant to paragraph (5) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259.

(2) Completion of a course, or for multiple subject and education specialist credentials, a course or an examination, on the various methods of teaching reading pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259. Completion of coursework in another state or country determined by the commission to be comparable and equivalent shall meet this requirement.

(3) Completion of a course or examination on the provisions and principles of the United States Constitution pursuant to paragraph (6) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259. Completion of coursework in another state or country determined by the commission to be comparable and equivalent shall meet this requirement.

(4) Completion of the study of health education pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259. Completion of coursework in another state or country determined by the commission to be comparable and equivalent shall meet this requirement.

(5) With the exception of the education specialist credential, completion of study and field experience in methods of delivering appropriate educational services to pupils with exceptional needs in regular education programs. Completion of coursework in another state or country determined by the commission to be comparable and equivalent shall meet this requirement.

(6) Completion of the study of computer-based technology through demonstration by course or examination of basic competence in the use of computers in the classroom, and study of advanced computer-based technology, including the uses of technology in educational settings pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 44259. Completion of coursework in another state or country determined by the commission as comparable and equivalent shall meet this requirement.

(7) Completion of a beginning teacher induction program pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 44259.

(d) (1) A teacher holding a specialist credential pursuant to this section shall complete the requirements for nonspecial education pedagogy and a supervised field experience program in general education pursuant to Section 44265.

(2) A teacher holding a specialist credential pursuant to this section shall complete a program for the Professional Level II credential accredited by the commission.

(e) Notwithstanding subdivisions (b) to (d), inclusive, the commission shall issue a multiple subject, single subject, or education specialist teaching credential to a teacher prepared in a country other than the United States who has earned a valid corresponding elementary, secondary, or special education teaching credential in another state and who meets the requirements set forth in Section 44274.2. A corresponding elementary, secondary, or special education teaching credential earned in another state shall be deemed to satisfy the teacher preparation program requirements specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 44274.2.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 38, Sec. 35. (SB 153) Effective June 29, 2024.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) In addition to the authority granted to the commission under Section 44275.4, the commission may determine that the national standards for coursework, programs, or degrees in a country other than the United States are equivalent to those offered by a regionally accredited institution of higher education in the United States. If the commission determines that the other country’s national standards are equivalent, an individual who holds or is eligible for a credential in that country is presumed to have satisfied the requirements of paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 44275.4.

(b) The commission may enter into an agreement with an evaluating agency as necessary to make a determination regarding another country’s national standards.

(c) The commission shall adopt regulations necessary to implement this section, including regulations that do both of the following:

(1) Establish uniform standards for making a determination regarding another country’s national standards.

(2) Prescribe the procedure by which a determination regarding another country’s national standards shall occur.

(d) (1) The commission shall annually report to the Legislature the list of countries that qualify under this section, the number of credential applications from foreign countries that are approved, and the country of origin of those credential applications.

(2) A report to be submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 663, Sec. 20. (AB 320) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) A school district, county office of education, and charter school shall annually report to the department, in a manner prescribed by the department, the number of visa applications for persons excluded from the term “immigrant,” for purposes of the federal Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. Sec. 1101), pursuant to Section 1101(a)(15)(H)(i)(b) of Title 8 of the United States Code that the school district, county office of education, or charter school applies for on behalf of potential employees, and the number of those visa applications that are granted.

(b) (1) The department shall annually report the information provided pursuant to subdivision (a) to the Legislature.

(2) A report to be submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 296, Sec. 16. (AB 1096) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types


text:
(a) The Legislature hereby finds and declares that California’s public school pupils need quality instruction and support in the areas of computer education in order to develop the skills necessary for entry into an increasingly technological society. The Legislature recognizes that computers and other technologies are an integral part of contemporary society and the state educational system.

It is the intent of the Legislature in enacting this section to provide a statewide standard for the preparation of educational personnel in the areas of computer education.

(b) For purposes of this section, “computer education” means the process of teaching pupils about computers.

(c) The Commission on Teacher Credentialing, in consultation with the Superintendent of Public Instruction, may develop and disseminate voluntary standards for the training and performance of teachers and resource personnel in the area of computer education.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 922, Sec. 81. Effective January 1, 1995.)

title: 2. ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION

article: 4. Credential Types