Certification advisory committee backs Teacher Leader endorsement revisions

The Certification Advisory Committee voted Nov. 5 to recommend that the State Board consider revised rule R72615, section B, establishing a Teacher Leader endorsement aligned to the Arizona Teacher Leader Professional Standards.

Department staff explained the proposal and changes at the meeting. Associate/Deputy Associate Superintendent Jamie Wilbur said the rule includes a crosswalk tying the endorsement’s required coursework and training to seven professional domains and that staff revised the practicum requirement to offer two equivalent paths. "What we have down there is one of the following: the 15 clock hours of practicum or field experience supervised by the college university or approved training or verification of two years of part‑time or full‑time experience in prek12 school leadership position," Wilbur said.

The committee discussed the practical effect of the change and applauded the department’s effort to accommodate educators already serving in leadership roles. Member Corpridge thanked staff and called the option “a great option for our local candidates,” adding that it helps teachers obtain credit for work already done. Following discussion, Member Janice Panel moved to recommend the proposed rule language; Member Horn seconded and the motion carried by voice vote.

Why it matters: the amendment is designed to make the endorsement accessible both to candidates who complete a supervised practicum and to experienced educators already performing leadership duties, and to clarify grade‑span language. Department staff told the committee the change should be brought to the board’s rulemaking process with a public hearing scheduled for Nov. 25 and an update to the board in December.

What’s next: the committee’s recommendation will be presented to the State Board for the formal rulemaking steps: board opening, public hearing, board update and potential closure and adoption at a future meeting.