SBEC outlines HB2-driven overhaul of educator preparation: new "prep" routes, asynchronous limits and a proposed preservice internship

The State Board for Educator Certification spent a substantial portion of its meeting discussing proposed rule changes to implement House Bill 2funded "prep" pathways and new requirements for educator-preparation programs.

Key proposals and discussion points

- Prep-funded routes: Staff described three funded routes that will be prioritized for HB2 allotment: prep residency, prep traditional (a revised traditional pathway), and a newly required preservice alternative-certification route that culminates in an intern certificate and an internship. Programs that choose not to meet the prep-funded model may remain on existing routes but would not receive prep allotment funding. (Overview at SEG 2310SEG 2376.)

- Asynchronous coursework: Statute requires that training for certain funded routes be delivered synchronously, but allows board approval for asynchronous components. Staff proposed an application/approval process for asynchronous coursework, suggested limiting the share of asynchronous content (for quality control), and recommended using Quality Matters reviews as a quality assurance option. Board members stressed flexibility for rural candidates and noted mixed evidence on outcomes for some online programs. (Discussion at SEG…