1. A. An endorsement is an attachment to an educator certificate that provides an additional qualification and shall be automatically renewed with the certificate on which it is posted.

2. B. Except as noted, the following provisions apply to this Section:

   1. 1. Endorsements are subject to the general certification provisions in R7-2-607 and the reciprocity provisions in R7-2-621;
   2. 2. Unless otherwise indicated, “teaching certificate” means a valid Arizona Standard Professional teaching certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, or International Teaching certificate;
   3. 3. Provisional endorsements are valid for three years and shall not be renewed or extended. An individual shall not be issued the same provisional endorsement more than once in a five-year timeframe.
3. C. Endorsements which are optional as specified herein may be required by local governing boards.

4. D. Special subject endorsements, grades PreK through 12

   1. 1. Special subject endorsements shall be issued in the area of art, computer science, dance, dramatic arts, music, or physical education.
   2. 2. Special subject endorsements authorize the holder to teach the subject area indicated in a single subject, preschool through grade 12 classroom.

   3. 3. The requirements are:

      1. a. An Arizona early childhood, elementary, middle grades, secondary, or special education teaching certificate;
      2. b. One course in the methods of teaching the subject at the elementary level and one course in the methods of teaching the subject at the secondary level; and

      3. c. One of the following:

         1. i. Thirty semester hours of courses in the subject area which may include the courses listed in subsection (D)(3)(b);
         2. ii. A passing score on the subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment in the appropriate area, if an assessment has been adopted by the Board.

5. E. Mathematics Specialist, K through eight Endorsement.

   1. 1. The mathematics specialist, K through eight endorsement is optional, but recommended for an individual in the position of mathematics specialist, mathematics education consultant, mathematics interventionist, or mathematics coach in a kindergarten through grade eight setting. Nothing in this Section prevents school districts from requiring certified staff to obtain a mathematics endorsement as a condition of employment. The mathematics endorsement does not waive the requirements set forth in R7-2-607.

   2. 2. The requirements are:

      1. a. A valid early childhood, elementary, middle grades, or special education teaching certificate;
      2. b. Verification of three years of full-time teaching experience in grades K through eight; and

      3. c. Eighteen semester hours of mathematics coursework to include:

         1. i. Three semester hours of data analysis, probability, and discrete mathematics;
         2. ii. Three semester hours of geometry and measurement;
         3. iii. Six semester hours of patterns, algebra, and functions; and
         4. iv. Six semester hours of number and operations.

      4. d. Six semester hours of mathematics coursework to include:

         1. i. Three semester hours of mathematics classroom assessment;
         2. ii. Three semester hours of research-based practices, pedagogy, and instructional leadership in mathematics.
   3. 3. A passing score on the middle grades mathematics or secondary mathematics portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment may be substituted for the mathematics coursework described in subsection (2)(c).

6. F. Reading Specialist, K through eight Endorsement

   1. 1. The Reading Specialist, K through eight endorsement authorizes the holder for the positions of reading specialist, reading coach, reading interventionist, or a similar role in kindergarten through grade eight.

   2. 2. The requirements are:

      1. a. A valid Arizona early childhood, elementary, special education, middle grades, or secondary teaching certificate;
      2. b. Verification of three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12;
      3. c. Three semester hours of elementary practicum in reading that includes experience with children in kindergarten through grade five;

      4. d. Fifteen semester hours of reading courses to include all of the following:

         1. i. Three semester hours in the essential elements of elementary reading and writing instruction for students in kindergarten through grade eight;
         2. ii. Three semester hours in elementary content area reading and writing for students in kindergarten through grade eight;
         3. iii. Three semester hours in reading assessment systems;
         4. iv. Three semester hours in the administration and supervision of a reading program at the elementary level;
         5. v. Three semester hours of elective courses in an area of focus that will deepen knowledge in the teaching of reading to elementary students, such as children’s literature or teaching reading to English language learners.
      5. e. Three semester hours in the science of reading instruction, including systematic phonics instruction;
      6. f. Three semester hours in reading instruction, including assessments, instructional practices, and interventions to improve student reading proficiency for struggling readers, including students with the characteristics of dyslexia;
   3. 3. A passing score on the appropriate subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment may substitute for the fifteen semester hours of courses described in subsection (F)(2)(d)(i) through (v).
   4. 4. Completion of Department-approved training may substitute for the semester hours required in subsections (F)(2)(e) and (F)(2)(f). Fifteen clock hours of training, or the equivalent competency-based credential, is equivalent to one semester hour.

7. G. Reading Specialist, six through 12 Endorsement

   1. 1. The Reading Specialist, six through 12 endorsement authorizes the holder for the positions of reading specialist, reading interventionist, reading coach, or a similar role in grades six through 12.

   2. 2. The requirements are:

      1. a. A valid Arizona early childhood, elementary, special education, middle grades, or secondary teaching certificate;
      2. b. Verification of three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12;
      3. c. Three semester hours of secondary practicum in reading completed in grades six through 12;

      4. d. Fifteen semester hours of reading courses to include all of the following:

         1. i. Three semester hours in the essential elements of reading and writing instruction for students in grades six through 12;
         2. ii. Three semester hours in content area reading and writing for students in grades six through 12;
         3. iii. Three semester hours in reading assessment systems;
         4. iv. Three semester hours in the administration and supervision of a reading program at the secondary level;
         5. v. Three semester hours of elective courses in an area of focus that will deepen knowledge in the teaching of reading to students in grades six through 12, such as adolescent literature or teaching reading to English language learners.
      5. e. Three semester hours in the science of reading instruction, including systematic phonics instruction;
      6. f. Three semester hours in reading instruction, including assessments, instructional practices, and interventions to improve student reading proficiency for struggling readers, including students with the characteristics of dyslexia. For applications received on or after October 1, 2027, the course must include a focus on improving reading proficiency for struggling readers in grades six through 12.
   3. 3. A passing score on the appropriate subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment may substitute for the fifteen semester hours of courses described in subsection (G)(2)(d)(i) through (v).
   4. 4. Completion of Department-approved training may substitute for the semester hours required in subsections (G)(2)(e) and (G)(2)(f). Fifteen clock hours of training, or the equivalent competency-based credential, is equivalent to one semester hour.

8. H. Reading Specialist, K through 12 Endorsement

   1. 1. The Reading Specialist, K through 12 endorsement authorizes the holder for the positions of reading specialist, reading interventionist, reading coach, or a similar role in kindergarten through grade 12.

   2. 2. The requirements are:

      1. a. A valid Arizona early childhood, elementary, special education, middle grades, or secondary teaching certificate;
      2. b. Verification of three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12;
      3. c. Three semester hours of elementary reading practicum completed in kindergarten through grade five;
      4. d. Three semester hours of secondary reading practicum completed in grades six through 12;

      5. e. Eighteen semester hours of reading courses to include all of the following:

         1. i. Three semester hours in the essential elements of elementary reading and writing instruction for students in kindergarten through grade eight;
         2. ii. Three semester hours in elementary content area reading and writing for students in kindergarten through grade eight;
         3. iii. Three semester hours in the essential elements of reading and writing instruction for students in grades six through 12;
         4. iv. Three semester hours in content area reading and writing for students in grades six through 12;
         5. v. Three semester hours in reading assessment systems;
         6. vi. Three semester hours in the administration and supervision of a kindergarten through grade 12 reading program.
      6. f. Three semester hours in the science of reading instruction, including systematic phonics instruction;
      7. g. Three semester hours in reading instruction, including assessments, instructional practices, and interventions to improve student reading proficiency for struggling readers, including students with the characteristics of dyslexia.
   3. 3. A passing score on the appropriate subject knowledge portions of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment required for the Reading Specialist K through eight and Reading Specialist, six through 12 endorsements may substitute for the eighteen semester hours of courses described in subsection (H)(2)(e)(i) through (vi).
   4. 4. Completion of Department-approved training may substitute for the semester hours required in subsections (H)(2)(f) and (H)(2)(g). Fifteen clock hours of training, or the equivalent competency-based credential, is equivalent to one semester hour.

9. I. Elementary World Language, K through eight Endorsement

   1. 1. The elementary world language, K through 8 endorsement authorizes a holder to teach a world language other than English to students in kindergarten through grade eight.

   2. 2. The requirements are:

      1. a. An Arizona early childhood, elementary, middle grades, secondary or special education teaching certificate.

      2. b. A passing score on the subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment in a world language other than English. If an Arizona subject knowledge assessment in the language has not been adopted by the Board, one of the following is required:

         1. i. A minimum of 24 semester hours of courses in the world language other than English; or
         2. ii. A passing score on a nationally accredited test of a foreign language approved by the Board; or
         3. iii. Verification of proficiency in a Native American language from a person, persons, or entity designated by the appropriate tribe.
      3. c. Three semester hours of courses in the methods of teaching a foreign language at the elementary level.

10. J. Bilingual Endorsements, PreK through 12

    1. 1. The Bilingual endorsements authorize the holder for the positions of bilingual classroom teacher, bilingual resource teacher, bilingual specialist, or otherwise responsible for providing bilingual instruction. The holder of a full Bilingual endorsement is also authorized to teach English learners within the authorized subjects and grade levels of the prerequisite certificate.

    2. 2. The Provisional Bilingual, PreK through 12 endorsement is valid for three years and is not renewable. The requirements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Teaching Certificate, Subject Matter Expert Standard Teaching Certificate, Specialized Secondary Teaching Certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, International Teaching Certificate, Alternative Teaching Certificate, Student Teaching Intern Certificate, Career and Technical Education Certificate, Supervisor Certificate, Principal Certificate, or Superintendent Certificate; and

       2. b. Proficiency in a world language other than English, verified by one of the following:

          1. i. A passing score on the Arizona Classroom Spanish Proficiency exam;
          2. ii. A passing score on a subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment in a world language other than English; or
          3. iii. A passing score on a nationally accredited test of a foreign language approved by the Board;
          4. iv. Proficiency in a Native American language shall be verified by an official designated by the appropriate tribe;

    3. 3. The requirements for the full Bilingual, PreK through 12 endorsement are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Teaching Certificate, Subject Matter Expert Standard Teaching Certificate, Specialized Secondary Teaching Certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, International Teaching Certificate, Alternative Teaching Certificate, Student Teaching Intern Certificate, Career and Technical Education Certificate, Supervisor Certificate, Principal Certificate, or Superintendent Certificate;

       2. b. Completion of a bilingual education program from an accredited institution or the following courses:

          1. i. Three semester hours of foundations of instruction for non-English-language-background students;
          2. ii. Three semester hours of bilingual methods including, but not limited to, bilingual materials and curriculum;
          3. iii. Three semester hours of English as a Second Language for bilingual settings;
          4. iv. Three semester hours of courses in assessment of limited-English-proficient students, and methods of teaching reading and writing in a bilingual classroom;
          5. v. Three semester hours of linguistics to include psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics, first language acquisition, and second language acquisition for language minority students, or American Indian language linguistics;
          6. vi. Three semester hours of courses dealing with school, community, and family culture and parental involvement in programs of instruction for non-English-language-background students; and
          7. vii. Three semester hours of courses in methods of teaching and evaluating children with disabilities from non-English-language backgrounds. These semester hours are only required for bilingual endorsements on special education certificates.

       3. c. One of the following:

          1. i. Three semester hours of practicum in a preschool through grade 12 bilingual classroom; or
          2. ii. Verification of two years of full-time teaching experience in a preschool through grade 12 bilingual classroom.

       4. d. Proficiency in a world language other than English, verified by one of the following:

          1. i. A passing score on the Arizona Classroom Spanish Proficiency exam;
          2. ii. A passing score on a subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment in a world language other than English; or
          3. iii. A passing score on a nationally accredited test of a foreign language approved by the Board;
          4. iv. Proficiency in a Native American language shall be verified by an official designated by the appropriate tribe.

11. K. English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsements, grades PreK through 12

    1. 1. The English as a Second Language (ESL) endorsements authorize the holder to teach English learners within the authorized subjects and grade levels of the prerequisite certificate.

    2. 2. The Provisional English as a Second Language, PreK through 12 endorsement is valid for three years and is not renewable. The requirements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Teaching Certificate, Subject Matter Expert Standard Teaching Certificate, Specialized Secondary Teaching Certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, International Teaching Certificate, Alternative Teaching Certificate, Student Teaching Intern Certificate, Career and Technical Education Certificate, Supervisor Certificate, Principal Certificate, or Superintendent Certificate; and
       2. b. Six semester hours of courses specified in subsection (K)(3)(b), including at least one course in methods of teaching ESL students.

    3. 3. The requirements for the ESL endorsement are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Teaching Certificate, Subject Matter Expert Standard Teaching Certificate, Specialized Secondary Teaching Certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, International Teaching Certificate, Alternative Teaching Certificate, Student Teaching Intern Certificate, Career and Technical Education Certificate, Supervisor Certificate, Principal Certificate, or Superintendent Certificate;

       2. b. Completion of an ESL education program from an accredited institution or the following courses:

          1. i. Three semester hours of courses in foundations of instruction for non-English-language-background students. Three semester hours of courses in the nature and grammar of the English language, taken before January 1, 1999, may be substituted for this requirement;
          2. ii. Three semester hours of ESL methods;
          3. iii. Three semester hours of teaching of reading and writing to limited-English-proficient students;
          4. iv. Three semester hours of assessment of limited-English-proficient students;
          5. v. Three semester hours of linguistics; and
          6. vi. Three semester hours of courses dealing with school, community, and family culture and parental involvement in programs of instruction for non-English-language-background students.

       3. c. One of the following:

          1. i. Three semester hours of practicum in an ESL or bilingual preschool through grade 12 classroom; or
          2. ii. Verification of two years of full-time teaching experience in an ESL or bilingual preschool through grade 12 classroom.

       4. d. Second language learning experience, which may include sign language. Second language learning experience may be documented by any of the following:

          1. i. Six semester hours of courses in a single second language other than English;
          2. ii. Completion of intensive language training by the Peace Corps, the Foreign Service Institute, or the Defense Language Institute;
          3. iii. Verification from a department chair or administrator in the language department of an accredited institution that the applicant has been placed in a third-semester level in a language other than English;
          4. iv. Placement at level 1-intermediate/low or more advanced score on the Oral Proficiency Interview, verified by the American Council for the Teaching of Foreign Languages;
          5. v. A passing score on the Arizona Classroom Spanish Proficiency Examination approved by the Board;
          6. vi. Proficiency in a Native American language verified by an official designated by the appropriate tribe;
          7. vii. A passing score on the subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment in a world language other than English.

12. L. Structured English Immersion (SEI) Endorsements, grades PreK through 12.

    1. 1. The Structured English Immersion (SEI) endorsements authorize the holder to teach English learners (ELs) within the grade range and subject area of the prerequisite certificate that is endorsed.

    2. 2. The Provisional SEI endorsement is valid for three years and is not renewable. The requirements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Teaching Certificate, Subject Matter Expert Standard Teaching Certificate, Specialized Secondary Teaching Certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, International Teaching Certificate, Alternative Teaching Certificate, Student Teaching Intern Certificate, Career and Technical Education Certificate, Supervisor Certificate, Principal Certificate, or Superintendent Certificate;

       2. b. One of the following:

          1. i. One semester hour of coursework in Structured English Immersion (SEI) methods of teaching English learners including, but not limited to, instruction in SEI strategies, teaching with the English Language Proficiency Standards adopted by the Board, and monitoring EL student academic progress using a variety of assessment tools; or
          2. ii. Completion of 15 clock hours of Board-approved training in Structured English Immersion methods of teaching English learners that meets the requirements of A.R.S. § 15-756.09(B) and includes instruction in SEI strategies, teaching with the English Language Proficiency Standards adopted by the Board, and monitoring ELL student academic progress using a variety of assessment tools.

    3. 3. The requirements for the full Structured English Immersion, PreK through 12 endorsements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Teaching Certificate, Subject Matter Expert Standard Teaching Certificate, Specialized Secondary Teaching Certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, International Teaching Certificate, Alternative Teaching Certificate, Career and Technical Education Certificate, Supervisor Certificate, Principal Certificate, or Superintendent Certificate.

       2. b. One of the following:

          1. i. Three semester hours of SEI coursework that aligns with the SEI Endorsement Frameworks approved by the Board; or
          2. ii. Completion of 45 clock hours of Board-approved SEI endorsement training that aligns with the SEI Endorsement Frameworks approved by the Board and meets the requirements of A.R.S. § 15-756.09(B).

13. M. Gifted Endorsements, grades PreK through 12

    1. 1. The gifted endorsements authorize the holder to teach gifted students within the grade range and subject area of the prerequisite certificate. A gifted endorsement is required for all district teachers who have primary responsibility for teaching gifted pupils.

    2. 2. The provisional gifted endorsement is valid for three years and is not renewable. The requirements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona International or Standard Professional teaching certificate.

       2. b. One of the following:

          1. i. Six semester hours of courses in gifted education; or
          2. ii. Verification from a public school superintendent or personnel director that the applicant completed a minimum of 90 clock hours of in-service training in gifted education, or the equivalent through competency-based credentials, that is aligned to the Teacher Preparation Standards in Gifted and Talented Education adopted by the National Association for Gifted Children and the Council for Exceptional Children.

    3. 3. Requirements for the gifted endorsement are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona International or Standard Professional teaching certificate;

       2. b. One of the following:

          1. i. Verification from a public school superintendent or personnel director that the applicant completed a minimum of 180 clock hours of in-service training in gifted education, or the equivalent through competency-based credentials, that is aligned to the Teacher Preparation Standards in Gifted and Talented Education adopted by the National Association for Gifted Children and the Council for Exceptional Children; or
          2. ii. Completion of 12 semester hours of courses in gifted education. No more than six semester hours of courses in gifted education may be obtained through completion of in-service training that is aligned to the Teacher Preparation Standards in Gifted and Talented Education adopted by the National Association for Gifted Children and the Council for Exceptional Children. Fifteen clock hours of in-service is equivalent to one semester hour. In-service hours shall be verified by the district superintendent or personnel director.

14. N. Early Childhood Education, Birth through grade three Endorsements

    1. 1. When combined with an Arizona elementary education teaching certificate or an Arizona special education teaching certificate, the early childhood endorsement may be used in lieu of an early childhood education certificate as described in R7-2-608. When combined with an Arizona mild/moderate disabilities, moderate/severe disabilities, specialized special education, or cross-categorical special education teaching certificate, the early childhood endorsement may be used in lieu of an Early Childhood Special Education certificate.

    2. 2. The Provisional Early Childhood Education Birth through grade three is valid for three years and is not renewable. The requirements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona elementary or special education teaching certificate; and
       2. b. A passing score on the early childhood subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment.

    3. 3. The requirements for the full Early Childhood Education, Birth through grade three endorsement are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona elementary or special education teaching certificate; and

       2. b. Completion of 21 semester hours of early childhood courses to include all of the following:

          1. i. Foundations of early childhood education;
          2. ii. Child guidance and classroom management;
          3. iii. Characteristics and quality practices for typical and atypical behaviors of young children;
          4. iv. Child growth and development, including health, safety and nutrition;
          5. v. Child, family, cultural and community relationships;
          6. vi. Developmentally appropriate instructional methodologies for teaching language, math, science, social studies and the arts;
          7. vii. Early language and literacy development;
          8. viii. Assessing, monitoring and reporting progress of young children.

       3. c. One of the following:

          1. i. Four semester hours of practicum serving children birth through preschool; or
          2. ii. Verification of one year of full-time teaching experience with children in birth through preschool. This verification may come from a school-based education program or center-based program licensed by the Department of Health Services or regulated by tribal or military authorities.

       4. d. One of the following:

          1. i. A minimum of four semester hours of student teaching in a kindergarten through grade three classroom; or
          2. ii. Verification of one year of full-time teaching experience in kindergarten through grade three.
       5. e. A passing score on the early childhood subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment.
    4. 4. Applicants may meet the requirements in subsections (N)(3)(b), (c), and (d) with the submission of an application for the full Early Childhood Education, Birth through grade three endorsement that includes evidence of three years of verified full-time teaching experience in an infant/toddler, preschool, or kindergarten through grade three classroom.
    5. 5. Applicants may meet the requirements in subsection (N)(3)(b) with a passing score on the early childhood professional knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment.

15. O. Library-Media Specialist Endorsement, grades PreK through 12

    1. 1. The library-media specialist endorsement is optional.

    2. 2. The requirements are:

       1. a. An Arizona elementary, middle grades, secondary, early childhood or special education teaching certificate;
       2. b. A passing score on the Library-Media Specialist subject knowledge portion of the Arizona Teacher Proficiency Assessment; and
       3. c. Verification of one year of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12.

16. P. Middle Grades Endorsement, grades five through nine

    1. 1. The Middle Grades endorsement expands the grades a teacher is authorized to teach on an elementary or secondary teaching certificate.

    2. 2. The requirements are:

       1. a. An Arizona elementary or secondary teaching certificate, and

       2. b. Six semester hours of courses in middle grade education to include:

          1. i. One course in early adolescent psychology;
          2. ii. One course in middle grade curriculum; and

       3. c. One of the following:

          1. i. A practicum in grades five through nine; or
          2. ii. Verification of one year of full-time teaching experience in grades five through nine.

17. Q. Driver’s Education Endorsement

    1. 1. The driver’s education endorsement is optional.

    2. 2. The requirements are:

       1. a. An Arizona, Standard Professional Teaching Certificate, Subject Matter Expert Standard Teaching Certificate, Specialized Secondary Teaching Certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching Certificate, International Teaching Certificate, or Career and Technical Education Certificate;
       2. b. A valid Arizona driver’s license;

       3. c. Completion of nine semester hours of courses in driver’s education to include all of the following:

          1. i. Safety education,
          2. ii. Driver and highway safety education, and
          3. iii. Driver education laboratory experience.
       4. d. A driving record with less than seven violation points and no revocation or suspension of driver’s license within the two years preceding application.
    3. 3. Department-approved driver’s education training may substitute for the nine semester hours of coursework described in subsection (Q)(2)(c). Fifteen clock hours of training is equivalent to one semester hour of coursework.

18. R. Cooperative Education Endorsement, grades K through 12

    1. 1. The cooperative education endorsement is required for individuals who coordinate Career and Technical Education (CTE) cooperative education programs.

    2. 2. The requirements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona CTE certificate; and
       2. b. At least one semester hour of college coursework or 15 clock hours of Department-CTE approved training in coordinating CTE cooperative education programs.

19. S. Computer Science, PreK through eight Endorsement

    1. 1. The computer science, PreK through eight endorsement authorizes the holder to teach computer science in prekindergarten through grade eight.

    2. 2. The requirements are:

       1. a. An Arizona Standard Professional Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Special Education, or PreK through 12 Teaching certificate;

       2. b. Three semester hours in foundations for teaching computer science which addresses the following topics:

          1. i. Introduction to computer science;
          2. ii. Inclusive recruitment, retention, and pedagogical strategies in computing education;
          3. iii. Computational thinking;
          4. iv. Instructional planning based on the Arizona state standards for computer science, or comparable computer science standards.

       3. c. Six semester hours in computer science to include the following:

          1. i. Three semester hours in teaching and learning programming for educators; and
          2. ii. Three semester hours in a computer science elective which may include, but is not limited to, physical computing or mobile computing.
    3. 3. Completion of a training program through an Arizona public local education agency or an accredited institution may substitute for the semester hours required in subsections (S)(2)(b) and (c). Fifteen clock hours of training, or the equivalent competency-based credential, is equivalent to one semester hour of college coursework. Training programs shall be verified by a superintendent or personnel director of the Arizona local education agency or the appropriate administrator of an accredited institution.

20. T. Computer Science, grades six through 12 Endorsement

    1. 1. The computer science, grades six through 12 endorsement authorizes the holder to teach computer science in grades six through 12.

    2. 2. The requirements are:

       1. a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Hearing Impaired, Visually Impaired, Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Moderate/Severe Disabilities, or PreK through 12 Teaching certificate;

       2. b. Three semester hours in foundations for teaching computer science which addresses the following topics:

          1. i. Introduction to computer science;
          2. ii. Inclusive recruitment, retention, and pedagogical strategies in computing education;
          3. iii. Computational thinking;
          4. iv. Instructional planning based on the Arizona state standards for computer science or comparable computer science standards.

       3. c. Nine semester hours of courses in computer science to include the following:

          1. i. Three semester hours in teaching and learning programming for educators; and
          2. ii. Six semester hours in computer science electives which may include, but is not limited to, computer programming, cybersecurity, algorithms and data structures, operating systems, artificial intelligence, machine learning, database development and management, computer networks, and data mining and analytics.
    3. 3. Completion of a training program through an Arizona public local education agency or an accredited institution may substitute for the semester hours required in subsections (T)(2)(b) and (c). Fifteen clock hours of training, or the equivalent competency-based credential, is equivalent to one semester hour of college coursework. Training programs shall be verified by a superintendent or personnel director of the Arizona local education agency or the appropriate administrator of an accredited institution.

21. U. Literacy, K through five Endorsement

    1. 1. For the purposes of this Section, the following definitions apply:

       1. a. “Literacy instruction” means instruction in English language arts provided by a teacher.
       2. b. “Science of reading instruction” means instruction which includes a focus on the elements of structured literacy, to include oral language, phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and foundational writing skills, including spelling and handwriting.
       3. c. “Teaching certificate” means an Alternative Teaching certificate, International Teaching certificate, Classroom-Based Standard Teaching certificate, or Standard Professional teaching certificate.
    2. 2. An individual who receives a teaching certificate in early childhood education, elementary education, middle grades education, or special education issued on or before August 1, 2025, and who provides literacy instruction in kindergarten pro-grams or in any of grades one through five must obtain a Literacy, K through five endorsement, a Reading Specialist endorsement, grades K through 12, a Reading endorsement for grades K through 12, or a Reading endorsement for grades K through eight by August 1, 2028.
    3. 3. An individual who receives a teaching certificate in early childhood education, elementary education, middle grades education, or special education issued after August 1, 2025, and who provides literacy instruction in kindergarten or in any of grades one through five must obtain a Literacy, K through five endorsement, a Reading Specialist endorsement, grades K through 12, a Reading endorsement for grades K through 12, or a Reading endorsement for grades K through eight within three years after the teaching certificate is issued.

    4. 4. Literacy, K through five Endorsement

       1. a. The Literacy, K through five Endorsement authorizes the holder to provide literacy instruction within the grade range and subject area of the teaching certificate it endorses. The requirements are:

          1. i. A valid teaching certificate in early childhood education, elementary education, middle grades education, or special education;
          2. ii. Three semester hours in the science of reading instruction, including systematic phonics instruction;
          3. iii. Three semester hours in reading instruction, including assessments, instructional practices, and interventions to improve student reading proficiency for struggling readers, including students with the characteristics of dyslexia;
          4. iv. A passing score on a literacy instruction assessment approved by the Board for the Literacy, K through five endorsement.
       2. b. Completion of Department-approved training may substitute for the semester hours required in subsections (U)(4)(a)(ii) and (iii). Fifteen clock hours of training, or the equivalent competency-based credential, is equivalent to one semester hour.

    5. 5. Applicants may meet the requirements described in subsections (U)(4)(a)(ii), (iii), and (iv) with verification from an Arizona public school superintendent, principal or personnel director that the applicant meets the following requirements: The applicant is a teacher who provides literacy instruction in kindergarten through grade five and has demonstrated through class-room observations and student achievement data across subgroups using evidence-based measures for at least three consecutive years, based on criteria established by the Board, that the teacher possesses the instructional knowledge and skills to:

       1. a. Effectively teach foundational reading skills, phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension; and
       2. b. Implement reading instruction using high-quality instructional materials; and
       3. c. Provide effective instruction and interventions for students with reading deficiencies, including students with characteristics of dyslexia.

Historical Note

Adopted effective December 4, 1998 (Supp. 98-4). Amended by final rulemaking at 6 A.A.R. 1132, effective March 10, 2000 (Supp. 00-1). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 15 A.A.R. 1838, effective August 29, 2006 (Supp. 09-1). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 15 A.A.R. 1306, effective September 26, 2006 (Supp. 09-1). Former R7-2-615 recodified to R7-2-616; new R7-2-615 recodified from R7-2-614 at 15 A.A.R. 2146, effective August 25, 2008 (Supp. 09-4). Former R7-2-615 recodified to R7-2-616; new R7-2-615 recodified from R7-2-614 at 16 A.A.R. 68, effective December 8, 2008 (Supp. 10-1). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 16 A.A.R. 52, effective December 8, 2008 (Supp. 10-1). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 16 A.A.R. 119, effective September 21, 2009 (Supp. 10-2). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 16 A.A.R. 129, effective September 21, 2009 (Supp. 10-2). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 16 A.A.R. 734, effective July 1, 2011 (Supp. 10-3). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 16 A.A.R. 1249, effective May 24, 2010 (Supp. 10-4). Amended by exempt rulemaking at 16 A.A.R. 1496, effective July 1, 2011 (Supp. 11-1). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 22 A.A.R. 227, effective June 23, 2014; filed in the Office January 20, 2016 (Supp. 16-2). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 22 A.A.R. 1912, effective October 1, 2011; filed in the Office July 1, 2016 (Supp. 16-3). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 22 A.A.R. 219, effective June 5, 2015; filed in the Office January 20, 2016 (Supp. 16-4). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 22 A.A.R. 233, effective September 28, 2015 and filed in the Office January 20, 2016 (Supp. 17-1). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 22 A.A.R. 670, effective January 1, 2016, filed in the Office March 2, 2016; amended by final exempt rulemaking at 22 A.A.R. 2241, effective August 6, 2016, filed in the Office August 5, 2016 (Supp. 17-2). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 25 A.A.R. 1552, effective May 20, 2019 (Supp. 19-2). The hyphen between “6-12,” “PreK-8,” and “PreK-12” have been corrected to the word “through,” the numeral “6” has been changed to “six,” and the numeral “8” has been changed to “eight” for consistency in Chapter style and format (Supp. 21-2). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 27 A.A.R. 2353 (October 22, 2021), effective September 27, 2021; amended by final exempt rulemaking at 28 A.A.R. 180, (January 14, 2022) effective January 25, 2022 (Supp. 21-4). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 31 A.A.R. 2980 (September 19, 2025); effective February 24, 2025, as approved by the Board (Supp. 25-3).

R7-2-615.01 Special Education Endorsements

A. Except as noted, special education endorsements are subject to the general certification provisions in R7-2-607.

B. Mild/Moderate Disabilities Endorsement:

1. The endorsement authorizes the holder to teach students with mild/moderate disabilities in preschool through grade 12.

2. A provisional mild/moderate disabilities endorsement is valid for three years and is not renewable. The requirements are:

a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Early Childhood Special Education, or Moderate/Severe Disabilities certificate;

b. Three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12;

c. Six semester hours of special education courses to include both of the following:

i. Behavior management for students with disabilities; and

ii. Special education assessment and individualized education program planning.

d. Completion of 15 clock hours of practicum in mild/moderate disabilities special education that may be included in the courses listed in (B)(2)(c).

3. The requirements for the mild/moderate disabilities endorsement are:

a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Early Childhood Special Education, or Moderate/Severe Disabilities certificate;

b. Three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12;

c. Fifteen semester hours of special education courses to include all of the following:

i. Methods for teaching students with disabilities;

ii. Behavior management for students with disabilities;

iii. Special education law;

iv. Special education assessment and individualized education program planning;

v. Language development and disorders.

d. Completion of 45 clock hours of practicum in mild/moderate disabilities special education that may be included in the courses listed in (B)(3)(c).

C. Moderate/Severe Disabilities Endorsement

1. The endorsement authorizes the holder to teach students with moderate/severe disabilities in preschool through grade 12.

2. A provisional moderate/severe disabilities endorsement is valid for three years and is not renewable. The requirements are:

a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Early Childhood Special Education, or Mild/Moderate Disabilities certificate;

b. Three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12; and

c. Six semester hours of special education courses to include both of the following:

i. Behavior management for students with disabilities; and

ii. Special education assessment and individualized education program planning.

d. Completion of 15 clock hours of practicum in moderate/severe disabilities special education that may be included in the courses listed in (C)(2)(c).

3. The requirements are for the moderate/severe disabilities endorsement are:

a. A valid Arizona Standard Professional Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Early Childhood Special Education, or Mild/Moderate Disabilities certificate;

b. Three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12;

c. Fifteen semester hours of special education courses to include all of the following:

i. Behavior management for students with disabilities;

ii. Special education law;

iii. Special education assessment and individualized education program planning;

iv. Methods for teaching students with severe disabilities;

v. Adaptive communication, including language development and disorders.

d. Completion of 45 clock hours of practicum in moderate/severe disabilities special education that may be included in the courses listed in (C)(3)(c).

D. Deaf/Hard of Hearing Endorsement

1. The endorsement authorizes the holder to teach students who are deaf or hard of hearing from birth through grade 12.

2. The requirements are:

a. A valid Standard Professional Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Moderate/Severe Disabilities, Early Childhood Special Education, Specialized Special Education, Cross-Categorical Special Education, or Visually Impaired teaching certificate.

b. Three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12.

c. Six semester hours of special education courses to include all of the following:

i. Special education law and individualized education program planning,

ii. Behavior management for students with disabilities,

iii. The use of instructional and assistive technologies in the classroom.

d. Fifteen semester hours of courses in deaf/hard of hearing education that adhere to a guidance document approved by the Board and include all of the following:

i. Methods for facilitating language acquisition and literacy development in children who are deaf or hard of hearing;

ii. Auditory skill development for students who are deaf or hard of hearing;

iii. Assessment of students who are deaf or hard of hearing;

iv. Principles of audiology;

v. Social and cultural foundations and family involvement for students who are deaf or hard of hearing;

vi. Early intervention and parental involvement to enhance the early language skills of students who are deaf or hard of hearing;

vii. Methods for teaching students who are deaf or hard of hearing with multiple disabilities, including deaf-blindness.

e. Completion of at least 90 clock hours of supervised practicum in teaching students who are deaf or hard of hearing, which may be included in the courses listed under subsections (2)(c) or (d).

f. American Sign Language learning experience documented by one of the following:

i. A passing score on an American Sign Language proficiency assessment approved by the Board. An applicant who meets the requirement in this subsection under this option shall qualify for a deaf/hard of hearing endorsement with an American Sign Language proficiency designation; or

ii. Verification of proficiency in American Sign Language from an accredited institution; or

iii. Completion of six semester hours of courses in American Sign Language.

E. Visually Impaired Endorsement

1. The endorsement authorizes the holder to teach students who are blind or visually impaired in birth through grade 12.

2. The requirements are:

a. A valid Standard Professional Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, Secondary, Mild/Moderate Disabilities, Moderate/Severe Disabilities, Early Childhood Special Education, Specialized Special Education, Cross-Categorical Special Education, or Hearing Impaired teaching certificate.

b. Three years of full-time teaching experience in preschool through grade 12.

c. Six semester hours of special education courses to include all of the following:

i. Special education law and individualized education program planning,

ii. Behavior management for students with disabilities,

iii. The use of instructional and assistive technologies in the classroom.

d. Fifteen semester hours of courses in visually impaired special education that adhere to a guidance document approved by the Board and include all of the following:

i. Instructional approaches for teaching students who have vision impairments;

ii. Methods for facilitating literacy development in children who are blind or low vision;

iii. Assistive technologies for students with vision impairments;

iv. Assessment of students with vision impairment;

v. Early intervention and parental involvement to enhance early skills of students with vision impairment;

vi. Anatomy and physiology of the eye;

vii. Methods for teaching orientation and mobility to students who have visual impairments;

viii. Methods for teaching students who have visual impairments with multiple disabilities, including deaf-blindness.

e. Completion of a minimum of 90 clock hours of supervised practicum in teaching students who have visual impairments, which may be included in the courses listed under subsections (2)(c) or (d).

f. Proficiency in braille verified by one of the following:

i. Successful completion of a nationally validated braille test approved by the Board; or

ii. Successful completion of a braille test developed in the program in visual impairment at the University of Arizona.

New Section made by final exempt rulemaking at 26 A.A.R. 595, effective February 24, 2020 (Supp. 20-1). Amended by final exempt rulemaking at 27 A.A.R. 743, effective April 26, 2021 (Supp. 21-2).