Legislature passes bill expanding teacher certifications
The Arizona House has given final approval to legislation backed by Gov. Doug Ducey that would change the rules and qualifications for who can become a teacher in the state.
Senate Bill 1042 would allow individuals with expertise in certain areas to obtain a particular certificate to become eligible to teach in schools. Those candidates would bypass the state’s regular requirements to obtain basic or standard teaching certificates.
Advocates say it would allow more qualified teachers to enter classrooms.
Opponents say the legislation would not alleviate the state’s teacher shortage and would lower teacher standards.
The House’s 33-22 vote Wednesday sends the legislation to Ducey’s desk because the Senate approved it on a 16-12 vote Tuesday.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.
