Legislature moving to add new teacher certification paths

PHOENIX (AP) — The Arizona Legislature could soon approve changes to the teacher certification process designed to address a shortage of classroom instructors by allowing more people without regular training to lead a class.

The Republican-backed proposal has already passed the Senate and was given initial approval after a vigorous House debate on Monday.

Minority Democrats objected, saying it will allow unqualified people to teach and do little to impact the teacher shortage.

The proposal expands a 2017 law that allows people with experience in the private sector to get a “subject-matter certificate” to teach in grades 6-12.

The new proposal allows those people to also teach kindergarten through 5th graders. It awaits a formal House vote.