Title of Regulation: 8VAC20-23. Licensure Regulations for School Personnel (amending 8VAC20-23-10, 8VAC20-23-20, 8VAC20-23-40, 8VAC20-23-50, 8VAC20-23-90, 8VAC20-23-100, 8VAC20-23-110, 8VAC20-23-130, 8VAC20-23-190, 8VAC20-23-720).

Statutory Authority: §§ 22.1-16 and 22.1-298 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Hearing Information: No public hearings are currently scheduled.

Public Comment Deadline: March 31, 2021.

Effective Date: April 15, 2021.

Agency Contact: Patty Pitts, Assistant Superintendent for Teacher Education and Licensure, State Board of Education, 101 North 14th Street, Richmond, VA 23219, telephone (804) 371-2522, or email patty.pitts@doe.virginia.gov.

Basis: Section 22.1-16 of the Code of Virginia authorizes the State Board of Education to promulgate such regulations as may be necessary to carry out its powers and duties and the provisions of Title 22 of the Code of Virginia. In addition, this action is taken pursuant to legislative changes to the following sections of the Code of Virginia enacted in the 2017 through 2020 Sessions of the General Assembly: (i) in 2017, §§ 22.1-298.1 and 22.1-307; (ii) in 2018, §§ 22.1-298.1, 22.1-299, 22.1-299.5, and 22.1-299.6; and (ii) in 2019, §§ 22.1-298.1, 22.1-298.2, 22.1-305.2, and 23.1-902.

Purpose: The amendments to the regulations are required to comport with legislation enacted in the 2017 though 2020 Sessions of the General Assembly. The proposed changes to this regulation are required to comport with legislation passed by the Virginia General Assembly. The alignment of the regulations ensures compliance with the Code of Virginia and that teacher licensure applicants have access to the most current information when they apply. These proposed changes benefit the public's health, safety and welfare by ensuring that applicants are highly qualified and that licenses are not issued erroneously.

Rationale for Use of Fast-Track Rulemaking Process: The regulatory changes are required by the Virginia General Assembly. The requirements are noncontroversial as all requirements are mandated by the General Assembly.

Substance: The following are the chapters and summaries of the substantive provisions mandated by the General Assembly:

2017 Acts of Assembly - Chapters 247 and 255 permit each local school board or division superintendent to waive certain enumerated licensure requirements for any individual whom it seeks to employ as a career and technical education teacher and who is also seeking initial licensure or renewal of a license with an endorsement in the area of career and technical education. Chapter 783 specifies that the certification or training in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators that is required of every person seeking initial licensure or renewal of a license as a teacher shall include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Chapter 688 exempts from any professional teacher's assessment requirements any individual who has obtained a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, that is in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is received by the Department of Education, subject to the approval of the division superintendent or the school board in the school division in which such individual is employed. (Section 22.1-298.1 of the Code of Virginia regarding reciprocity was also amended in the 2018 Session of the General Assembly.) Chapter 240 requires the State Board of Education to include in its regulations governing the licensure of teachers and other school personnel procedures for the immediate and thorough investigation by the division superintendent or the division superintendent's designee of any complaint alleging that a license holder has engaged in conduct that may form the basis for the revocation of the license holder's license, including requirements for (i) the division superintendent to petition for the revocation of the license upon completing such investigation and finding that there is reasonable cause to believe that the license holder has engaged in conduct that forms the basis for revocation of a license; (ii) the school board to proceed to a hearing on such petition for revocation within 90 days of the mailing of a copy of the petition to the license holder, unless the license holder requests the cancellation of his license in accordance with board regulations; and (iii) the school board to provide a copy of the investigative file and such petition for revocation to the Superintendent of Public Instruction at the time that the hearing is scheduled. The bill clarifies that in the case of a teacher who is or becomes the subject of a founded complaint of child abuse and neglect, such teacher shall be dismissed after all rights to any administrative appeal have been exhausted. Chapter 520 requires every person seeking initial licensure or renewal of a license with an endorsement as a school counselor to complete training in the recognition of mental health disorder and behavioral distress, including depression, trauma, violence, youth suicide, and substance abuse.

2018 Acts of Assembly - Chapters 745 and 746 require the State Board of Education to provide for teacher licensure by reciprocity for any spouse of an active duty member of the Armed Forces of the United States or the Commonwealth who has obtained a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, that is in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is received by the Department of Education. The chapters provide that no service requirements or licensing assessments shall be required for any such individual. Chapter 747 requires the State Board of Education, in its regulations providing for teacher licensure by reciprocity, to permit applicants to submit third-party employment verification forms. Chapter 711 requires the board to establish an experiential route to licensure, issuing a one-year renewable license. Chapters 748 and 749 make several changes to the teacher licensure process, including (i) permitting teachers with a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, to receive licensure by reciprocity without passing additional licensing assessments and (ii) permitting a local school board or division superintendent to waive certain licensure requirements for any individual who holds a provisional license and is employed by the local school board.

On January 24, 2019, the Board of Education approved 270 professional development points for license renewal for a 10-year renewable license and approved including in the Licensure Renewal Manual the following maximum professional development points for each option until the renewal requirements are comprehensively reviewed. Individuals who hold a five-year renewable license must complete 180 professional development points. All statutory requirements for renewal shall be required. The points are College Credit 270 points, Professional Conference 60 points, Curriculum Development 135 points, Publication of Article 135 points, Publication of Book 135 points, Mentor/Supervision 135 points, Educational Project 135 points, and Professional Development Activities 270 points.

2019 Acts of Assembly - Chapter 767 grants to the Chancellor of the Virginia Community College System voting privileges as a member of the Advisory Board on Teacher Education and Licensure (the Advisory Board). The chapter requires the Advisory Board to report to the Board of Education and the Chairmen of the House Committee on Education and the Senate Committee on Education and Health no later than December 1, 2019, recommendations relating to licensure qualifications for individuals employed by an institution of higher education to teach (i) career and technical education courses in a high school setting and (ii) dual enrollment courses in a high school setting. The chapter also requires the State Board of Education to provide for the issuance of a three-year license to solely teach career and technical education courses or dual enrollment courses at public high schools in the Commonwealth to any individual who is employed as an instructor by an institution of higher education that is accredited by a nationally recognized regional accreditation body, is teaching in the specific career and technical education or dual enrollment subject area at such institution in which the individual seeks to teach at a public school, and complies with certain additional requirements. Chapters 63 and 407 require the State Board of Education to issue a license to an individual seeking initial licensure who has not completed the professional assessments prescribed by the board, if such individual (i) holds a provisional license that will expire within three months; (ii) is employed by a school board; (iii) is recommended for licensure by the division superintendent; (iv) has attempted, unsuccessfully, to obtain a qualifying score on the professional assessments prescribed by the board; (v) has received an evaluation rating of proficient or above on the performance standards for each year of the provisional license, and such evaluation was conducted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines for Uniform Performance Standards and Evaluation Criteria for Teachers, Principals, and Superintendents; and (vi) meets all other requirements for initial licensure. Chapter 409 requires the State Board of Education in its regulations providing for licensure by reciprocity to grant special consideration to individuals who have successfully completed a program offered by a provider that is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

Issues: The regulatory revisions need to be made to ensure the public is informed of amended provisions of the Code of Virginia. Chapter 767 of the 2019 Acts of Assembly provides the Chancellor of the Virginia Community College voting privileges as a member of the Advisory Board on Teacher Education and Licensure. Other significant changes expand reciprocity for individuals who apply for licensure in Virginia, require hands-on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), created a One-Year High School License and a Career and Technical Education or Dual Language Endorsement License, and make technical revisions to the section of the Licensure Regulations for School Personnel governing the revocation, denial, and cancellation and suspension of teaching licenses.

The licensure regulations changes do not disadvantage the public or Commonwealth.

Department of Planning and Budget's Economic Impact Analysis:

Summary of the Proposed Amendments to Regulation: The Board of Education (Board) proposes to amend 8 VAC 20-23 Licensure Regulations for School Personnel to reflect 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 Acts of Assembly.

Background. Except for where noted, the proposal essentially inserts text from the legislation described below into the regulation.

Length of Renewable Licenses and Professional Development Points - Chapters 748 and 749 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly changed the length of time for renewable licenses from five to ten years.¹ The second enactment clause of the chapters states "That the Board of Education shall amend its regulations for the establishment of requirements for teacher licensure renewal set forth in 8VAC20-22-110 to require teachers to complete no more than 360 professional development points within the 10-year license renewal period established by this act." The Board proposes to require 270 professional development points within a ten-year period to renew the license.

Provisional Licenses - Chapters 748 and 749 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly also state that the Board shall extend for at least one additional year, but for no more than two additional years, the three-year Provisional License of a teacher upon receiving from the division superintendent (i) a recommendation for such extension and (ii) satisfactory performance evaluations for such teacher for each year of the original three-year Provisional License.

Chapter 63 and 407 of the 2019 Acts of Assembly² states that the Board shall issue another Provisional License to an individual seeking initial licensure who has not completed professional assessments as prescribed by the Board, if such individual (i) holds a Provisional License that will expire within three months; (ii) is employed by a school board; (iii) is recommended for licensure by the division superintendent; (iv) has attempted, unsuccessfully, to obtain a qualifying score on the professional assessments as prescribed by the Board; (v) has received an evaluation rating of proficient or above on the performance standards for each year of the provisional license, and such evaluation was conducted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines for Uniform Performance Standards and Evaluation Criteria for Teachers, Principals, and Superintendents; and (vi) meets all other requirements for initial licensure.

One-Year High School License - Chapter 711 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly³ created a one-year annually renewable license to teach in public high schools. The candidate must have: 1) received a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education, 2) completed at least 30 credit hours of teaching experience as an instructor at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, 3) received qualifying scores on the professional teacher's assessments prescribed by the Board, including the communication and literacy assessment and the content-area assessment for the endorsement sought, 4) completed study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines developed by the Board of Education in consultation with the Department of Social Services, and 5) completed certification or training in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators.⁴

Career and Technical Education, Dual Enrollment - Chapters 247 and 255 of the 2017 Acts of Assembly⁵ state that a local school board or division superintendent may waive any of the following applicable licensure requirements for any individual whom it seeks to employ as a career and technical education teacher and who is also seeking initial licensure or renewal of a license with an endorsement in the area of career and technical education: 1) demonstrated proficiency in the relevant content area, communication, literacy, and other core skills for educators by achieving a qualifying score on professional assessments or meeting alternative evaluation standards as prescribed by the Board, 2) study in attention deficit disorder, 3) study in gifted education, including the use of multiple criteria to identify gifted students, 4) study in methods of improving communication between schools and families and ways of increasing family involvement in student learning at home and at school, 5) renewal requirements, including professional development in a manner prescribed by the Board, 6) demonstrated proficiency in reading and writing Braille, and 7) initial or renewal requirement to complete awareness training, provided by the Department of Education (DOE), on the indicators of dyslexia, as that term is defined by the Board pursuant to regulations, and the evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia.

Chapter 651 of the 2016 Acts of Assembly⁶ established a three-year Career and Technical Education License. The three-year license is issued to teach high school career and technical education courses in a specific subject area to an individual who: 1) is recommended for the license by a local school board, 2) meets certain basic conditions for licensure as prescribed by the Board,⁷ 3) holds a relevant baccalaureate degree, professional license, or industry certification credential,⁸ 4) has at least four years of full-time work experience or its equivalent in the specific career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach, and 5) if appropriate, has obtained qualifying scores on the communication and literacy professional teacher's assessment prescribed by the Board. The employing local board is required to assign a mentor to supervise the individual issued the Career and Technical Education License. Chapter 651 specified that the individual so licensed was to teach for no more than 50 percent of the instructional day or year, on average. Chapters 748 and 749 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly removed that restriction.

Chapter 767 of the 2019 Acts of Assembly⁹ established the Career and Technical Education or Dual Enrollment License. The Career and Technical Education or Dual Enrollment License is a three-year license to solely teach career and technical education courses or dual enrollment courses at public high schools in the Commonwealth issued to any individual who (i) is employed as an instructor by an institution of higher education that is accredited by a nationally recognized regional accreditation body, (ii) is teaching in the specific career and technical education or dual enrollment subject area at such institution in which the individual seeks to teach at a public school, and (iii) complies with the requirements set forth in subsections E and F of 8VAC20-23-40. Such instructor must maintain continuous employment in such position at the institution of higher education as a condition of continued licensure. The statutory authority for issuing this license shall expire on July 1, 2021; however, any such license issued prior to July 1, 2021, shall remain in effect for three years from the date it was issued unless such license is revoked by the Board.

Licensure by Reciprocity - Chapters 745 and 746 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly¹⁰ state that licensure by reciprocity is provided for any spouse of an active duty member of the Armed Forces of the United States or the Commonwealth who has obtained a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, that is in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is received by DOE. Each such individual shall establish a file in DOE by submitting a complete application packet, which shall include official student transcripts. No service requirements or licensing assessments shall be required for any such individual.

Chapters 748 and 749 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly state that licensure by reciprocity is provided for individuals who have obtained a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, that is in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is received by the DOE. Each such individual shall establish a file in DOE by submitting a complete application packet, which shall include official student transcripts. No service requirements or licensing assessments shall be required for any such individual.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - The current regulation requires that every person seeking initial licensure or renewal of a license provide evidence of completion of certification or training in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) , and the use of automated external defibrillators. The certification or training program shall be based on the current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross. Chapter 783 of the 2017 Acts of Assembly¹¹ added that the training must include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform CPR.

School Counselors - Chapter 520 of the 2017 Acts of Assembly¹² established that every person seeking initial licensure or renewal of a license with an endorsement as a school counselor shall complete training in the recognition of mental health disorder and behavioral distress, including depression, trauma, violence, youth suicide, and substance abuse.

Training Concerning Student Behavior - Chapter 870 of the 2020 Acts of Assembly¹³ states that every person seeking initial licensure as a teacher who has not received the instruction described in subsection D of §23.1-902 of the Code of Virginia¹⁴ shall receive instruction or training on positive behavior interventions and supports, crisis prevention and de-escalation, the use of physical restraint and seclusion, consistent with regulations of the Board, and appropriate alternative methods to reduce and prevent the need for the use of physical restraint and seclusion.

Estimated Benefits and Costs.

Length of Renewable Licenses and Professional Development Points - The doubling of the length of renewable licenses from five to ten years saves time and effort for licensees by only requiring them to assemble renewal applications half as often. Renewal fees are not in the regulation, but the Board did double the fees (from $25 to $50). Thus, the fee cost per year stays the same.

Under the current regulation, the requirement for renewing the five-year license is 180 professional development points. The Board's proposal to require 270 professional development points within the ten-year period to renew the license effectively reduces burden on licensees. When 180 professional development points are required over five years, that is 36 professional development points per year. When 270 professional development points are required over ten years, that is 27 professional development points per year.

Provisional Licenses - The enabling of the extension, or essentially the one-time renewal of a Provisional License, is beneficial for teachers who have difficulty fulfilling all of the requirements for full licensure. In practice, these teachers are granted extra time to fulfill all such requirements. Given the ongoing teacher shortage,¹⁵ the increase in time allowed with a Provisional License helps alleviate the shortage to a degree.

One-Year High School License - The One-Year High School License makes it easier for people with experience teaching college to become licensed to teach high school. This may also help alleviate the teacher shortage to a degree.

Career and Technical Education, Dual Enrollment - The provision to allow the waiving of applicable licensure requirements for any individual whom it seeks to employ as a career and technical education teacher, and the introduced Career and Technical Education License, were both intended to help alleviate the shortage of career and technical education teachers. According to DOE, no school board or division superintendent has requested that requirements be waived for their career and technical education teachers since that provision became effective in 2017, and no applications have been received for the Career and Technical Education License since it was established in 2018.

Licensure by Reciprocity - The new licensure by reciprocity effectively differs from the existing language in one regard, teaching experience. The current regulation requires a minimum of three years of full-time, successful teaching experience in order for an individual with an out-of-state license with full credentials and without deficiencies to be granted Virginia licensure. The language proposed to be added to the regulation from Chapters 745, 746, 748 and 749 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly does not require a specific amount of teaching experience. This may also help alleviate the teacher shortage to a degree in that more individuals with valid out-of-state licenses would qualify for Virginia licensure.

CPR - Prior to Chapter 783 of the 2017 Acts of Assembly, the training requirement for CPR could be satisfied with an online course. Now, as discussed above, the training must include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform CPR. An all online course costs about $35 and takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes to complete. An online and classroom course with hands-on practice with a qualified instructor costs about $79 and takes about 3 hours and 35 minutes plus travel time to and from the class.¹⁶ Though the course with hands-on practice with a qualified instructor is more expensive, it seems likely that there would greater assurance that the individual taking the training could perform CPR correctly.

School Counselors - According to DOE, training in the recognition of mental health disorders and behavioral distress, including depression, trauma, violence, youth suicide, and substance abuse is available for free for school counselors through online modules. Thus, the only cost for the school counselors from the required training would be their time to complete the modules.

Training Concerning Student Behavior - The requirement that every person seeking initial licensure as a teacher who has not received the instruction described in subsection D of §23.1-902 of the Code of Virginia¹⁷ shall receive such instruction or training can also be satisfied through free online modules.¹⁸ Similarly, the only cost for the required training would be the time to complete the modules.

Businesses and Other Entities Affected. The proposed amendments affect the 132 local school divisions in the Commonwealth, teachers, and school counselors. School divisions that are particularly affected by teacher shortages may be particularly affected by the changes that introduce new paths to licensure or extend the length of provisional licensure.

Small Businesses¹⁹ Affected. The proposed amendments do not appear to adversely affect small businesses.

Localities²⁰ Affected.²¹ The proposal affects all Virginia localities in that all have public schools. Localities that have school divisions that are particularly affected by teacher shortages may be particularly affected by the changes that introduce new paths to licensure or extend the length of provisional licensure. The proposal would not likely substantively increase costs for local governments.

Projected Impact on Employment. The proposed amendments do not appear to affect total employment.

Effects on the Use and Value of Private Property. The proposed regulation would not likely have a substantive effect on the use and value of private property.

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¹See Chapter 748: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?181 ful CHAP0748. Chapter 749 is identical.

²See Chapter 63: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?191 ful CHAP0063. Chapter 407 is identical.

³See Chapter 711: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?181 ful CHAP0711

⁴The certification or training program shall be (i) based on the current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross and (ii) include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The Board shall provide a waiver for this requirement for any person with a disability whose disability prohibits such person from completing the certification or training.

⁵See Chapter 247: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?171 ful CHAP0247. Chapter 255 is identical.

⁶See Chapter 651: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?161 ful CHAP0651&161 ful CHAP0651

⁷The "certain basic conditions" are not specified in either the Code of Virginia or the proposed regulation.

⁸Specifically, the candidate must: (i) hold, at a minimum, a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education and has completed coursework in the career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach, (ii) hold the required professional license in the specific career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach, where applicable, or (iii) hold an industry certification credential, as that term is defined in § 22.1-298.1 of the Code of Virginia, in the specific career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach.

⁹See Chapter 767: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?191 ful CHAP0767

¹⁰See Chapter 745: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?181 ful CHAP0745. Chapter 746 is identical.

¹¹See Chapter 783: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?171 ful CHAP0783

¹²See Chapter 520: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?171 ful CHAP0520

¹³See Chapter 870: https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?201 ful CHAP0870

¹⁴See §23.1-902: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/23.1-902/

¹⁵Source: DOE. See https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching/workforce_data/index.shtml and

https://www.education.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/secretary-of-education/pdf/final-acts-report.pdf

¹⁶Data source: https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/cpr-training

¹⁷Specifically, instruction on positive behavior interventions and supports, crisis prevention and de-escalation, the use of physical restraint and seclusion, consistent with regulations of the Board, and appropriate alternative methods to reduce and prevent the need for the use of physical restraint and seclusion

¹⁸See https://www.odu.edu/eps/programs/ciees/initiatives/restraint-and-seclusion.html

¹⁹Pursuant to § 2.2-4007.04 of the Code of Virginia, small business is defined as "a business entity, including its affiliates, that (i) is independently owned and operated and (ii) employs fewer than 500 full-time employees or has gross annual sales of less than $6 million."

²⁰"Locality" can refer to either local governments or the locations in the Commonwealth where the activities relevant to the regulatory change are most likely to occur.

²¹§ 2.2-4007.04 defines "particularly affected" as bearing disproportionate material impact.

Agency's Response to Economic Impact Analysis: The agency concurs with the economic impact analysis completed by the Department of Planning and Budget.

Summary:

The action conforms the regulations to legislation enacted in the 2017, 2018, and 2019 Sessions of the General Assembly, as follows: Chapters 240, 247, 255, 520, 688, and 783 of the 2017 Acts of Assembly; Chapters 711, 745, 746, 747, 748, and 749 of the 2018 Acts of Assembly; and Chapters 63, 407, 409, and 767 of the 2019 Acts of Assembly regarding teacher licensure.

8VAC20-23-10. Definitions.

The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the meanings indicated unless the context clearly implies otherwise:

"Accredited institution" means an institution of higher education accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.

"Accredited virtual school or program" means a virtual school or program accredited by one of the accrediting agencies recognized by the Virginia Department of Education. School divisions operating as multi-division online providers may be deemed as meeting accreditation requirements if a majority of their schools are fully accredited by the Virginia Board of Education.

"Alternate route to licensure" means a nontraditional route to licensure available to individuals who meet the criteria specified in guidelines developed by the board or 8VAC20-23-90.

"Approved program" means a professional education program recognized as meeting state standards for the content and operation of such programs so that graduates of the program will be eligible for state licensure. The Virginia Board of Education has the authority to approve programs in Virginia.

"Cancellation" means the withdrawal of a license following the voluntary return of the license by the license holder.

"Career and Technical Education License" means a three-year license available to qualified individuals to teach, either full time or part time, high school career and technical education courses in specific subject areas who meet requirements set forth in this chapter. Individuals issued a three-year Career and Technical Education License shall not be eligible for continuing contract status while teaching under such license and shall be subject to the probationary terms of employment specified in § 22.1-303 of the Code of Virginia.

"Certified program provider" means a provider certified by the Virginia Department of Education to provide preparation and training for applicants seeking the Provisional License specified in 8VAC20-23-90.

"Career and Technical Education or Dual Enrollment License" means a three-year license to solely teach career and technical education courses or dual enrollment courses at public high schools in the Commonwealth issued to any individual who (i) is employed as an instructor by an institution of higher education that is accredited by a nationally recognized regional accreditation body, (ii) is teaching in the specific career and technical education or dual enrollment subject area at such institution in which the individual seeks to teach at a public school, and (iii) complies with the requirements set forth in subdivisions D 1 and D 3 of § 22.1-298.1 of the Code of Virginia. The Virginia Board of Education shall require any such instructor to maintain continuous employment in such position at the institution of higher education as a condition of continued license. The provisions of this regulation shall expire on July 1, 2021, however, any license issued pursuant to the act prior to July 1, 2021, shall remain in effect for three years from the date it was issued unless such license is revoked by the Virginia Board of Education.

"Collegiate Professional License" means a five-year 10-year, renewable teaching license available to an individual who has satisfied all requirements for licensure set forth in this chapter, including an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and the professional teacher's assessments prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

"Denial" means the refusal to grant a license.

"Division Superintendent License" means a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has completed an earned master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university and meets the requirements specified in 8VAC20-23-630. The individual's name shall be listed on the Virginia Board of Education's list of eligible division superintendents.

"Experiential learning" means a process of applying for an initial license through the alternate route as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education and meeting the criteria specified in 8VAC20-23-90 E to be eligible to request experiential learning credits in lieu of the coursework for the endorsement (teaching) content area.

"Industry certification credential" means an active career and technical education credential that is earned by successfully completing a Virginia Board of Education-approved industry certification examination, being issued a professional license in the Commonwealth, or successfully completing an occupational competency examination.

"International Educator License" means a professional teaching license issued for no more than five years to an exchange teacher with citizenship in a nation other than the United States of America who meets requirements by a state-approved, federally-designated Exchange Visitor Program and who is employed as a teacher in a Virginia public school or an accredited nonpublic school.

"Licensure by reciprocity" means a process used to issue a license to an individual coming into Virginia from another state when that individual meets certain conditions specified in this chapter.

"Mentor" means a classroom teacher hired by the local school division who has achieved continuing contract status or other instructional personnel including retired teachers who meet local mentor selection criteria. The mentor should work in the same building as the beginning teacher or be instructional personnel who is assigned solely as a mentor. A mentor should be assigned a limited number of teachers at any time. Instructional personnel who are not assigned solely as mentors should not be assigned to more than four teachers at any time. Mentors guide teachers in the program through demonstrations, observations, and consultations.

"One-Year High School License" means a license valid for one-year and renewable thereafter in one-year increments to teach in public high schools for individuals who have met requirements for such license as set forth in this chapter.

"Online Teacher License" means a five-year 10-year, renewable license valid only for teaching online courses. Teachers who hold a five-year or 10-year renewable license issued by the Virginia Board of Education may teach online courses for which they are properly endorsed and do not need to seek this license.

"Postgraduate Professional License" means a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has qualified for the Collegiate Professional License and who holds an appropriate earned graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

"Professional studies" means courses and other learning experiences designed to prepare individuals in the areas of human development and learning, curriculum and instruction, assessment of and for learning, classroom and behavior management, foundations of education and the teaching profession, language and literacy, and supervised clinical experiences.

"Professional teacher assessment" means those tests or other requirements mandated for licensure as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

"Provisional License" means a nonrenewable license valid for a specified period of time not to exceed three years issued to an individual who has allowable deficiencies for full licensure as set forth in this chapter. The individual shall have a minimum of an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, with the exception of those individuals seeking the Technical Professional License. The Provisional License will be issued for a three-year validity period, with the exception of the Provisional (Career Switcher) License that will be initially issued for a one-year validity period and Teach For America Provisional License that will be initially issued for a two-year validity period. Individuals shall complete all requirements for licensure, including passing all licensure assessments, for a renewable license within the validity period of the Provisional License.

"Pupil Personnel Services License" means a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has earned an appropriate graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university with an endorsement as a school counselor, school psychologist, school social worker, or vocational evaluator. This license does not require teaching experience unless otherwise outlined under the specific endorsement's requirements.

"Renewable license" means a license issued by the Virginia Board of Education for five 10 years, unless otherwise specified, to an individual who meets all requirements specified in this chapter.

"Revocation" means the withdrawal of a license.

"School Manager License" means a five-year 10-year, renewable license intended to provide for a differentiation of administrative responsibilities in a school setting. A school manager is licensed to administer noninstructional responsibilities in an educational setting. A school manager is restricted from evaluating teachers, supervising instruction, developing and evaluating curriculum, and serving as a school's student disciplinarian. The license is available to a candidate who holds a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university; has three years of successful managerial experience; and is recommended for the license by a Virginia school division superintendent.

"Suspension" means the temporary withdrawal of a license.

"Technical Professional License" means a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has graduated from a public or accredited nonpublic high school (or possesses a Virginia Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential); has exhibited academic proficiency, technical competency, and successful occupational experience; and meets the requirements specified in 8VAC20-23-50 A 4.

"Teach For America License" means a two-year provisional license available to an individual who is a participant in Teach For America and meets the requirements specified in 8VAC20-23-50.

8VAC20-23-20. Administering this chapter.

A. In administering this chapter, modifications may be made in exceptional cases by the Superintendent of Public Instruction. Proposed modifications shall be made in writing to the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Commonwealth of Virginia, Virginia Department of Education, P.O. Box 2120, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2120.

B. In administering this chapter, competencies required for endorsement areas are outlined in the Regulations Governing the Review and Approval of Education Programs in Virginia (8VAC20-543). This document should be referenced for detailed information regarding coursework content for endorsements. Individuals shall complete the semester hours required for endorsement areas, or the equivalent, that shall be documented and approved by the Virginia Department of Education.

C. Virginia school divisions may submit requests to the Virginia Department of Education for determination of appropriate endorsements for blended or integrated course options.

D. A local school board or division superintendent may waive any of the following applicable licensure requirements for any individual whom it seeks to employ as a career and technical education teacher and who is also seeking initial licensure or renewal of a license with an endorsement in the area of career and technical education:

1. Demonstrated proficiency in the relevant content area, communication, literacy, and other core skills for educators by achieving a qualifying score on professional assessments or meeting alternative evaluation standards as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education;

2. Study in attention deficit disorder;

3. Study in gifted education, including the use of multiple criteria to identify gifted students;

4. Study in methods of improving communication between schools and families and ways of increasing family involvement in student learning at home and at school;

5. Renewal requirements, including professional development in a manner prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education;

6. Demonstrated proficiency in reading and writing Braille; and

7. Initial or renewal requirement to complete awareness training, provided by the Virginia Department of Education, on the indicators of dyslexia, as that term is defined by the Virginia Board of Education pursuant to regulations, and the evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia.

E. Upon the effective date of this chapter, the Virginia Board of Education grants a one-year transition period for the implementation of this chapter.

8VAC20-23-40. Conditions for licensure.

A. Applicants for licensure shall:

1. Be at least 18 years of age;

2. Pay the appropriate fees as determined by the Virginia Board of Education and complete the application process;

3. Have earned a baccalaureate degree, with the exception of the Technical Professional License, from a regionally accredited college or university and meet requirements for the license sought. Persons seeking initial licensure through approved programs from Virginia institutions of higher education shall only be licensed as instructional personnel if the education endorsement programs have approval by the Virginia Board of Education; individuals who have earned a degree from an institution in another country shall hold the equivalent of a regionally accredited college or university degree in the United States, as verified by a Virginia Department of Education-approved credential evaluation agency, for the required degree for the license; and

4. Possess good moral character and be free of conditions outlined in Part VII (8VAC20-23-720 et seq.) of this chapter.

B. All candidates who hold at least a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and who seek an initial Virginia teaching license shall obtain passing scores on professional teacher's assessments prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education. With the exception of the career switcher program that requires assessments as prerequisites, individuals shall complete the professional teacher's assessment requirements within the three-year validity of the initial provisional license. Candidates seeking a Technical Professional License, International Educator License, School Manager License, or Pupil Personnel Services License are not required to take the professional teacher's assessments. Individuals who hold a valid out-of-state license (full credential without deficiencies) and who have completed a minimum of three years of full-time, successful teaching experience in a public or an accredited nonpublic school, kindergarten through grade 12, outside of Virginia are exempt from the professional teacher's assessment requirements. Documentation shall be submitted to verify the school's status as a public or an accredited nonpublic school.

C. All individuals seeking an initial endorsement in early/primary education preK-3, elementary education preK-6, special education-general curriculum, special education-deaf and hard of hearing, special education-blindness and visual impairments, and individuals seeking an endorsement as a reading specialist shall obtain passing scores on a reading instructional assessment prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

D. Licensure by reciprocity is set forth in 8VAC20-23-100. A school leaders licensure assessment prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education shall be met for all individuals who are seeking an endorsement authorizing them to serve as principals and assistant principals in the public schools. Individuals seeking an initial administration and supervision endorsement who are interested in serving as central office instructional personnel are not required to take and pass the school leaders licensure assessment prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

E. Individuals seeking initial licensure shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of educational technology for instruction,complete study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines developed by the Virginia Board of Education in consultation with the Virginia Department of Social Services, and receive professional development in instructional methods tailored to promote student academic progress and effective preparation for the Virginia Standards of Learning end-of-course and end-of-grade assessments relevant content area, communication, literacy, and other core skills for educators by achieving a qualifying score on professional assessments or meeting alternatives evaluation standards as prescribed by the board; complete study in attention deficit disorder; complete study in gifted education, including the use of multiple criteria to identify gifted students; complete study in methods of improving communication between schools and families and ways of increasing family involvement in student learning at home and at school.

F. Every person seeking initial licensure shall (i) complete awareness training, provided by the Department of Education on the indicators of dyslexia, as that term is defined by the Board pursuant to regulations, and the evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia; (ii) complete study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines, developed by the Virginia Board of Education in consultation with the Virginia Department of Social Services; and (iii) provide evidence of completion of certification or training in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators. The certification or training program shall (a) be based on the current national evidenced-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross; and (b) include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The Virginia Board of Education shall provide a waiver for this requirement for any person with a disability whose disability prohibits such person from completing the certification or training.

G. Every person seeking initial licensure as a teacher who has not received the instruction described in subsection D of § 23.1-902 of the Code of Virginia shall receive instruction or training on positive behavior interventions and supports; crisis prevention and de-escalation; the use of physical restraint and seclusion, consistent with regulations of the Virginia Board of Education; and appropriate alternative methods to reduce and prevent the need for the use of physical restraint and seclusion.

H. The teacher of record for verified credit courses for high school graduation shall hold a Virginia license with the appropriate content endorsement.

H. I. Every teacher seeking an initial license in the Commonwealth with an endorsement in the area of career and technical education shall have an industry certification credential, as defined in 8VAC20-23-10, in the area in which the teacher seeks endorsement. If a teacher seeking an initial license in the Commonwealth has not attained an industry certification credential in the area in which the teacher seeks endorsement, the Virginia Board of Education may, upon request of the employing school division or educational agency, issue the teacher a provisional license to allow time for the teacher to attain such credential.

I. J. Effective July 1, 2017, every Every person seeking renewal of a license shall complete awareness training, provided by the Virginia Department of Education, on the indicators of dyslexia, as that term is defined by the Virginia Board of Education pursuant to regulations, and the evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia.

K. No teacher who seeks a provisional license shall be required to meet any requirement set forth in subdivision F, G, or I as a condition of such licensure, but each teacher shall complete each such requirement during the first year of provisional licensure.

L. Every person seeking initial licensure of a license with an endorsement as a school counselor shall complete training in the recognition of mental health disorder and behavioral distress, including depression, trauma, violence, youth suicide, and substance abuse.

8VAC20-23-50. Types of licenses; dating licenses.

A. The following types of licenses are available:

1. Provisional License. The Provisional License is a nonrenewable license valid for a period not to exceed three years issued to an individual who has allowable deficiencies for full licensure as set forth in this chapter. The Provisional License will be issued for a three-year validity period, with the exceptions of the Provisional (Career Switcher) License that will initially be issued for a one-year validity period and the Provisional Teach For America License issued for a two year validity period. Individuals shall complete all requirements for licensure, including passing all licensure assessments, for a renewable license within the validity period of the Provisional License. The individual shall have a minimum of an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, with the exception of those individuals seeking the Technical Professional License.

The Virginia Board of Education shall extend for at least one additional year, but for no more than two additional years, the three-year provisional license of a teacher upon receiving from the division superintendent (i) a recommendation for such extension and (ii) satisfactory performance evaluations for such teacher for each year of the original three-year provisional license. If a teacher employed in the Commonwealth under a provisional license is activated or deployed for military service within a school year (July 1 through June 30), an additional year shall be added to the teacher's provisional license for each school year or portion thereof during which the teacher is activated or deployed. The additional year shall be granted the year following the return of the teacher from deployment or activation.

The Virginia Board of Education shall issue a license to an individual seeking initial licensure who has not completed professional assessments as prescribed by the board if such individual (i) holds a provisional license that will expire within three months; (ii) is employed by a school board; (iii) is recommended for licensure by the division superintendent; (iv) has attempted, unsuccessfully, to obtain a qualifying score on the professional assessments as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education; (v) has received an evaluation rating of proficient or above on the performance standards for each year of the provisional license, and such evaluation was conducted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines for Uniform Performance Standards and Evaluation Criteria for Teachers, Principals, and Superintendents; and (vi) meets all other requirements for initial licensure.

2. Collegiate Professional License. The Collegiate Professional License is a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has satisfied all requirements for licensure, including an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university and the professional teacher's assessments prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

3. Postgraduate Professional License. The Postgraduate Professional License is a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has qualified for the Collegiate Professional License and who holds an appropriate earned graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

4. Technical Professional License. The Technical Professional License is a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to a person who has graduated from a public or an accredited nonpublic high school or possesses a Virginia Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; has exhibited academic proficiency, skills in literacy and communication, technical competency, and successful occupational experience; has completed nine semester hours of specialized professional studies credit from a regionally accredited college or university; and has completed one year of successful, full-time teaching experience in a public school or accredited nonpublic school in the area of endorsement. The nine semester hours of professional studies coursework shall include three semester hours of human development and learning, three semester hours of curriculum and instruction, and three semester hours of applications of instructional technology or classroom and behavior management. The Technical Professional License is issued at the recommendation of a Virginia employing educational agency in the areas of career and technical education, educational technology, and military science. Individuals seeking an endorsement to teach military science shall have the appropriate credentials issued by the United States military. The employing Virginia educational agency shall ensure the credentials issued by the United States military are active during the period the individual is teaching. In addition to demonstrating competency in the endorsement area sought, the individual shall:

a. Hold a valid license issued by the appropriate Virginia board for those program areas requiring a license and a minimum of two years of successful experience at the journeyman level or an equivalent. The employing Virginia educational agency shall ensure that the valid license issued by the appropriate Virginia board for the occupational program area is active during the period the individual is teaching;

b. Have completed a registered apprenticeship program and two years of successful experience at the journeyman level or an equivalent level in the trade; or

c. Have four years of successful work experience at the management or supervisory level or equivalent or have a combination of four years of training and successful work experience at the management or supervisory level or equivalent.

Individuals holding the Technical Professional License who seek the Collegiate Professional or Postgraduate Professional License shall meet the requirements of the respective licenses.

5. School Manager License. The school manager license is a five-year 10-year, renewable license intended to provide for the differentiation of administrative responsibilities in a school setting. A school manager is licensed to administer noninstructional responsibilities in an educational setting. A school manager is restricted from evaluating teachers, supervising instruction, developing and evaluating curriculum, and serving as a school's student disciplinarian. The license is available to a candidate who holds a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, has three years of successful managerial experience, and is recommended for the license by a Virginia school division superintendent.

6. Pupil Personnel Services License. The Pupil Personnel Services License is a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has earned an appropriate graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university with an endorsement for school counselor, school psychologist, school social worker, or vocational evaluator. This license does not require teaching experience, unless otherwise outlined under the specific endorsement's requirements.

7. Division Superintendent License. The Division Superintendent License is a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has completed an earned master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university and meets the requirements specified in 8VAC20-23-630. The individual's name shall be listed on the Virginia Board of Education's list of eligible division superintendents.

8. International Educator License. The International Educator License provides a five-year cultural exchange opportunity for Virginia students and international teachers. The International Educator License is a professional teaching license issued for no more than five years to an exchange teacher with citizenship in a nation other than the United States of America who is employed as a teacher in a Virginia public or accredited nonpublic school. To be issued the five-year, nonrenewable International Educator License, an individual serving as a cultural exchange teacher in Virginia shall:

a. Be employed by a Virginia public or an accredited nonpublic school;

b. Hold non-United States citizenship and be a nonpermanent resident; and

c. Meet the following requirements as verified by a state-approved, federally-designated Exchange Visitor Program (22 CFR Part 62):

(1) Be proficient in written and spoken English;

(2) Demonstrate competence in the appropriate academic subject area or areas by meeting the credential requirements for a qualified teacher in the exchange country;

(3) Hold the United States equivalent of a baccalaureate degree or higher as determined by an approved credential evaluation agency; and

(4) Complete at least two years of successful full-time teaching experience that enables the educator to fulfill a similar assignment in his home country or is comparable to those requirements for Virginia teachers.

If an individual meets requirements of subdivisions 8 a, 8 b, 8 c (1), 8 c (2), and 8 c (3) of this subsection and has completed at least one year, but less than two years, of successful full-time teaching experience that would enable the educator to fulfill a similar assignment in his home country or is comparable to those requirements for Virginia teachers, the International Educator License will be issued for three years with an option to extend the nonrenewable International Educator License for the additional two years upon passing all teacher assessments prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education and a recommendation of the Virginia employing school division or accredited nonpublic school.

Individuals who have been issued an International Educator License who seek a five-year 10-year, renewable license shall meet all licensure and endorsement requirements, including passing applicable assessments prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

9. Online Teacher License. The Online Teacher License is a five-year 10-year, renewable license valid only for teaching online courses. Teachers who hold a five-year or 10-year renewable license issued by the Virginia Board of Education may teach online courses for which they are properly endorsed and do not need to seek this license.

a. In order to be issued an Online Teacher License, the individual shall meet the requirements for an endorsement in a content (teaching) area and professional studies and achieve qualifying scores on professional teacher's assessments as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education. In addition, the individual shall complete a three-semester-hour course in online instructional procedures.

Online instructional procedures: Three semester hours. Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding of the principles of online learning and online instructional strategies and the application of skills and the ability to use the Internet for teaching, learning, and management; design, deliver, and support instruction in an online environment; adapt strategies for a variety of course models, such as synchronous and asynchronous; select, adapt, and create rich multimedia for instruction; adapt individualized education program requirements to online course practices, as appropriate; use data to meet individual student's needs; and employ innovative teaching strategies in an online environment. Demonstrated proficiency of advanced skills in the following areas shall be addressed: use of communication technologies to interact with and engage students, parents, and mentors; use of education technologies; management of instructional activities in a technology-mediated environment; and nontraditional content delivery methods.

b. Online teaching experience is not acceptable to meet the full-time teaching experience for other license types, such as a Division Superintendent License, or for endorsements, such as for the reading specialist, school counselor, or administration and supervision endorsements. The Online Teacher License may be issued if requirements have been met as one of the following licenses to individuals teaching only online courses:

(1) Online Teacher (Postgraduate Professional) License - a five-year 10-year, renewable license available to an individual who has qualified for the Online Teacher (Collegiate Professional) License and who holds an appropriate earned graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

(2) Online Teacher (Collegiate Professional) License - a five-year 10-year, renewable teaching license available to an individual who has satisfied all requirements for licensure, including an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, endorsement and professional studies requirements, and passed the professional teacher's assessments prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education, or

(3) Online Teacher (Technical Professional) License - a five-year 10-year, renewable teaching license available to an individual who has graduated from a public or an accredited nonpublic high school or possesses a Virginia Board of Education-approved high school equivalency credential; has exhibited academic proficiency, technical competency, and occupational experience; and meets the requirements specified in subdivision 4 of this subsection. An individual seeking an Online Teacher (Technical Professional) License shall be recommended for the license by a Virginia public school, a Virginia accredited nonpublic school, or an accredited virtual school program.

c. A nonrenewable Online Teacher (Provisional) License may be issued for a period not to exceed three years to an individual who has allowable deficiencies for full licensure as set forth in 8VAC20-23-90 B. The Online (Provisional) License will be issued for three years. The individual shall have a minimum of an earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, with the exception of those individuals seeking the Technical Professional License. Individuals shall complete all requirements for a renewable Online Teacher License within the validity period of the license.

10. Teach For America License. The Teach For America License is a two-year provisional license.

a. This provisional license is available to any participant in Teach For America, a nationwide nonprofit organization focused on closing the achievement gaps between students in high-income and low-income areas, who submits an application and meets the following requirements:

(1) Holds, at minimum, a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education;

(2) Has met the requirements prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education for all endorsements sought or has met the qualifying scores on the content area assessment prescribed by the board for the endorsements sought;

(3) Possesses good moral character according to criteria developed by the Virginia Board of Education;

(4) Has been offered and has accepted placement in Teach For America;

(5) Has successfully completed preservice training and is participating in the professional development requirements of Teach For America, including teaching frameworks, curricula, lesson planning, instructional delivery, classroom management, assessment and evaluation of student progress, classroom diversity, and literacy development;

(6) Has an offer of employment from a local school board to teach in a public elementary or secondary school in the Commonwealth or a preschool program that receives state funds pursuant to subsection C of § 22.1-199.1 of the Code of Virginia; and

(7) Receives a recommendation from the employing school division for a Teach For America License in the endorsement area in which the individual seeks to be licensed.

b. In addition to the criteria set forth in subdivision 10 a of this subsection, any individual who seeks an endorsement in early childhood, early/primary, or elementary education shall either (i) agree to complete such coursework in the teaching of language and literacy as may be prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education pursuant to 8VAC20-23-130 during the first year of employment or (ii) achieve a passing score on a reading instructional assessment prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

c. Teachers issued a Teach For America provisional license shall not be eligible for continuing contract status while employed under the authority of a Teach For America license and shall be subject to the probationary terms of employment specified in § 22.1-303 of the Code of Virginia.

d. The Virginia Board of Education may extend any Teach For America License for one additional year upon request of the employing school division, provided that no Teach For America License shall exceed a total of three years in length.

e. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, upon completion of at least two years of full-time teaching experience in a public elementary or secondary school in the Commonwealth or a preschool program that receives state funds pursuant to subsection C of § 22.1-199.1 of the Code of Virginia, an individual holding a Teach For America License shall be eligible to receive a renewable license if he has (i) achieved satisfactory scores on all professional teacher assessments required by the Virginia Board of Education and (ii) received satisfactory evaluations at the conclusion of each year of employment.

f. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the Virginia Board of Education shall issue a Teach For America License to any individual who (i) has completed two years of successful teaching in the Teach For America program in another state, (ii) is not eligible to receive a renewable license, and (iii) meets the criteria set forth in subdivision 10 a of this subsection.

11. Career and Technical Education License. The Career and Technical Education License is a three-year license.

a. This license is available to qualified individuals to teach, either full time or part time, high school career and technical education courses in specific subject areas.

b. The three-year license is issued to teach high school career and technical education courses in a specific subject area to an individual who:

(1) Submits an application to the Virginia Board of Education, in the form prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education, that includes a recommendation for such a license from the local school board;

(2) Meets certain basic conditions for licensure as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education;

(3) Meets one of the following requirements:

(a) Holds, at a minimum, a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education and has completed coursework in the career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach,

(b) Holds the required professional license in the specific career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach, where applicable, or

(c) Holds an industry certification credential, as that term is defined in § 22.1-298.1 of the Code of Virginia, in the specific career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach;

(4) Has at least four years of full-time work experience or its equivalent in the specific career and technical education subject area in which the individual seeks to teach; and

(5) If appropriate, has obtained qualifying scores on the communication and literacy professional teacher's assessment prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

c. The employing school board shall assign a mentor to supervise an individual issued a three-year license pursuant to this section during the individual's first two years of teaching.

d. Except as otherwise provided in subdivision A 11 e of this section, any individual issued a three-year license pursuant to this section may be granted subsequent three-year extensions of such license by the Virginia Board of Education upon recommendation of the local school board.

e. Any individual issued a three-year license pursuant to this section who completes (i) nine semester hours of specialized professional studies credit from a regionally accredited institution of higher education or (ii) an alternative course of professional studies proposed by the local school board and approved by the Virginia Department of Education shall be granted a three-year extension of such license by the board and may be granted subsequent three-year extensions of such license by the board upon recommendation of the local school board. Any such specialized professional studies credit or alternative course of professional studies may be completed through distance learning programs and shall include human growth and development; curriculum, instructional, and technology procedures; and classroom and behavior management.

f. No three-year license issued by the board pursuant to this section shall be deemed a provisional license or a renewable license, as those terms are defined in § 22.1-298.1 of the Code of Virginia.

g. Individuals issued a three-year license pursuant to this section shall not be eligible for continuing contract status while teaching under such license and shall be subject to the probationary terms of employment specified in § 22.1-303 of the Code of Virginia.

h. The provisions of this section and of Virginia Board of Education regulations governing the denial, suspension, cancellation, revocation, and reinstatement of licensure shall apply to three-year licenses.

12. One-Year High School License. The One-Year High School License is for individuals seeking licensure through an alternate route. The license is a renewable, one-year license issued to teach in public high schools for individuals who:

a. Received a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education;

b. Completed at least 30 credit hours of teaching experience as an instructor at a regionally accredited institution of higher education;

c. Received qualifying scores on the professional teacher's assessments prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education, including the communication and literacy assessment and the content-area assessment for the endorsement sought; and

d. Met the following requirements:

(1) Complete study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines developed by the Virginia Board of Education in consultation with the Department of Social Services that are relevant to the specific teacher licensure route; and

(2) Provide evidence of completion of certification or training in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators. The certification or training program shall be (i) based on the current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross and (ii) include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The Virginia Board of Education shall provide a waiver for this requirement for any person with a disability whose disability prohibits such person from completing the certification or training.

The license may be renewed for one year by the submission of an application for renewal and verification from the division superintendent that the individual received a satisfactory performance evaluation.

13. Career and Technical Education or Dual Enrollment License. The Career and Technical Education or Dual Enrollment License is a three-year license to solely teach career and technical education courses or dual enrollment courses at public high schools in the Commonwealth issued to any individual who (i) is employed as an instructor by an institution of higher education that is accredited by a nationally recognized regional accreditation body, (ii) is teaching in the specific career and technical education or dual enrollment subject area at such institution in which the individual seeks to teach at a public school, and (iii) complies with the requirements set forth in subsections E and F of 8VAC20-23-40. The Virginia Board of Education shall require any such instructor to maintain continuous employment in such position at the institution of higher education as a condition of continued licensure. Subsections E and F of 8VAC20-23-40 shall expire on July 1, 2021, however, any license issued pursuant to this regulation prior to July 1, 2021, shall remain in effect for three years from the date the license was issued unless such license is revoked by the Virginia Board of Education.

B. All licenses will be effective from July 1 in the school year in which the application is made. An employing Virginia public school division, agency, or accredited nonpublic school is required to notify employees in writing at the time of employment of the need to meet appropriate assessment requirements for licensure.

8VAC20-23-90. Alternate routes to licensure.

A. Career switcher alternate route to licensure for career professionals - Provisional (Career Switcher) License. An alternate route is available to career switchers who seek teaching endorsements preK through grade 12 with the exception of special education.

1. An individual seeking a Provisional (Career Switcher) License through the career switcher program shall meet the following prerequisite requirements:

a. An application process;

b. An earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university;

c. The completion of requirements for an endorsement in a teaching area or the equivalent through verifiable experience or academic study;

d. At least three years of successful full-time work experience or its equivalent; and

e. Virginia qualifying scores on the professional teacher's assessments as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

2. The Provisional (Career Switcher) License is awarded at the end of Level I preparation for an initial validity period of one school year. All components of the career switcher alternate route for career professionals shall be completed by the candidate.

3. The Level I requirements shall be completed during the course of a single year and may be offered through a variety of delivery systems, including distance learning programs. If an employing agency recommends extending the Provisional (Career Switcher) License for a second year, the candidate will enter Level III of the program. Career switcher programs shall submit program documentation as set forth by the Virginia Department of Education for review and be certified every seven years by the Virginia Department of Education.

a. Level I preparation. Intensive Level I preparation includes a minimum of 180 clock hours of instruction, including field experience. This phase includes human development and learning; curriculum and instruction, including technology; language and literacy; specific course content relating to the Virginia Standards of Learning; foundations of education and the teaching profession; classroom and behavior management; and assessment of and for learning.

b. Level II preparation during first year of employment.

(1) Candidate seeks employment in Virginia with the one-year Provisional (Career Switcher) License.

(2) Continued Level II preparation during the first year of employment with a minimum of five seminars that expand the intensive preparation requirements listed in subdivision 3 a of this subsection. The five seminars will include a minimum of 20 cumulative instructional hours. A variety of instructional delivery techniques will be utilized to implement the seminars.

(3) One year of successful, full-time teaching experience in a Virginia public or accredited nonpublic school under a one-year Provisional (Career Switcher) License. A trained mentor shall be assigned to assist the candidate during the first year of employment. Responsibilities of the mentor include the following:

(a) Collaborate with the beginning teacher in the development and implementation of an individualized professional development plan;

(b) Observe, assess, coach, and provide opportunities for constructive feedback, including strategies for self-reflection;

(c) Share resources and materials;

(d) Share best instructional, assessment, and organizational practices; classroom and behavior management strategies; and techniques for promoting varied and effective methods of communication with and among students; and

(e) Provide general support and direction regarding school policies and procedures.

(4) Upon successful completion of the Levels I and II preparation requirements of the career switcher alternate route to licensure program and submission of a recommendation from the employing Virginia educational agency, the candidate will be eligible to apply for a five-year 10-year, renewable license. Renewal requirements for the regular license will be subject to current regulations of the Virginia Board of Education.

c. Level III preparation, if required.

(1) Post preparation, if required, will be conducted by the employing Virginia educational agency to address the areas where improvement is needed as identified in the candidate's professional improvement plan; and

(2) Upon successful completion of Levels I, II, and, if required, Level III of the career switcher alternate route to licensure program and submission of a recommendation from the employing Virginia educational agency, the candidate will be eligible to receive a five-year 10-year renewable license.

4. Verification of program completion will be documented by the certified program provider and the division superintendent or designee.

5. Certified providers implementing a career switcher program may charge a fee for participation in the program.

B. An alternate route is available to individuals employed by a Virginia educational agency who seek teaching endorsements preK through grade 12. The employing Virginia educational agency may request a nonrenewable Provisional License on behalf of the individual if the individual has completed an allowable portion of professional studies and endorsement requirements. An employed teacher may demonstrate meeting the teaching endorsement requirements by passing a rigorous academic subject test for endorsements in which a test is prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education. This testing option does not apply to individuals (i) who are seeking an early/primary education preK-3 or elementary education preK-6 endorsement, special education endorsements, or a reading specialist endorsement or (ii) who hold a Technical Professional License, Vocational Evaluator License, Pupil Personnel Services License, School Manager License, or Division Superintendent License. This route also is available to individuals who are employed by a Virginia public school, a Virginia accredited nonpublic school, or an accredited virtual school or program and who are seeking the Online Teacher License that is issued to teachers who teach only online courses. The Provisional License will be issued for a validity period not to exceed three years. The Provisional License is a nonrenewable teaching license valid for a period not to exceed three years. Individuals shall complete all licensure requirements to become eligible for the five-year 10-year, renewable license.

1. An individual seeking a license through this alternate route shall have met the following requirements:

a. Entered the teaching field through the alternate route to licensure upon the recommendation of the employing Virginia educational agency. For the Online Teacher Provisional License, individuals shall be employed by a Virginia public school division, a Virginia accredited nonpublic school, or an accredited virtual school or program;

b. Earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university with the exception of individuals seeking the Technical Professional License;

c. Have met requirements for the endorsement area; and

d. Need to complete an allowable portion of professional studies and licensure requirements.

2. The professional studies requirements for the appropriate level of endorsement sought shall be completed. A Virginia educational agency may submit to the Superintendent of Public Instruction for approval an alternate program to meet the professional studies requirements. The alternate program shall include training such as seminar, internship, or coursework in human development and learning; curriculum and instruction, including technology; assessment of and for learning; classroom and behavior management; foundations of education and the teaching profession, including legal status of teachers and students, federal and state laws, and teacher evaluation as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education's guidelines for performance standards and evaluation criteria established pursuant to § 22.1-253.13:5 B of the Code of Virginia and language and literacy.

3. One year of successful, full-time teaching experience in the appropriate teaching area in a Virginia public or an accredited nonpublic school shall be completed. For the Online Teacher License only, one year of successful online teaching experience in the endorsement area in a public school division, an accredited nonpublic school, or an accredited virtual school or program may be accepted in lieu of the supervised teaching experience. A fully licensed experienced teacher shall be available in the school building to assist the beginning teacher employed through the alternate route.

C. Alternate route in special education. The Provisional (Special Education) License is a nonrenewable teaching license issued for a validity period not to exceed three years to an individual employed as a special education teacher in a public school or a nonpublic school in Virginia who does not hold the appropriate special education endorsement. The Provisional (Special Education) License will be issued only with endorsements in special education. The Provisional License is a nonrenewable teaching license valid for a period not to exceed three years. This alternate route to special education endorsement is not applicable to individuals seeking the Online Teacher License. To be issued the Provisional (Special Education) License through this alternate route, an individual shall:

1. Be employed by a Virginia public or accredited nonpublic school as a special education teacher and have the recommendation of the employing educational agency;

2. Have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university;

3. Have an assigned mentor with an active Virginia teaching license with an endorsement in special education; and

4. Have a planned program of study in the assigned endorsement area, make progress toward meeting the endorsement requirements each of the three years of the license, and have completed at least three semester hours of coursework in the competencies of foundations for educating students with disabilities and have an understanding and application of the legal aspects and regulatory requirements associated with identification, education, and evaluation of students with disabilities. A survey course integrating these competencies would satisfy this requirement.

The Provisional (Special Education) License issued through this alternate route shall not be issued without the completion of these prerequisites.

D. Alternate programs at institutions of higher education or Virginia school divisions. Alternate programs developed by institutions of higher education (i) recognize the unique strengths of prospective teachers from nontraditional backgrounds and (ii) prepare these individuals to meet the same standards that are established for others who are granted a license through an alternate route.

E. Experiential learning. Individuals applying for an initial teaching license through the alternate route as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education shall meet the following criteria to be eligible to request that experiential learning satisfy the coursework for the endorsement (teaching) content area:

1. Have earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university;

2. Have at least three years of documented successful full-time work experience that may include specialized training related to the endorsement sought; and

3. Have met the Virginia qualifying score on the content knowledge assessment prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

Experiential learning does not apply to individuals seeking special education and preK-3 and preK-6 endorsements or endorsements in which there is no Virginia Board of Education - prescribed content or subject assessment.

8VAC20-23-100. Conditions for licensure for out-of-state candidates by reciprocity.

A. An individual coming into Virginia from any state may qualify for a Virginia teaching license with comparable endorsement areas if the individual (i) has completed a state-approved teacher preparation program through a regionally accredited four-year college or university or (ii) holds a valid out-of-state teaching license (full credential without deficiencies) that shall be in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is made. An individual shall meet licensure requirements set forth in the Code of Virginia. An individual seeking licensure shall establish a file in the Virginia Department of Education by submitting a complete application packet that includes official student transcripts. Unless exempted by the criteria in subsection C of this section chapter, professional teacher's assessment requirements prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education shall be satisfied.

B. An individual coming into Virginia will qualify for a Virginia teaching license with comparable endorsement areas if the individual holds an active national certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) or a nationally recognized certification program approved by the Virginia Board of Education.

C. Individuals who hold a valid out-of-state license (full credential without deficiencies) and who have completed a minimum of three years of full-time, successful teaching experience in a public or an accredited nonpublic school, kindergarten through grade 12, outside of Virginia are exempt from the professional teacher's assessment requirements. Documentation shall be submitted to verify the school's status as a public or accredited nonpublic school.

C. Licensure by reciprocity is provided for any spouse of an active duty member of the Armed Forces of the United States or the Commonwealth who has obtained a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, that is in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is received by the Virginia Department of Education. Each such individual shall establish a file in the Virginia Department of Education by submitting a complete application packet, which shall include official student transcripts. No service requirements or licensing assessments shall be required for any such individual.

D. Licensure by reciprocity is provided for individuals who have obtained a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, that is in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is received by the Virginia Department of Education. Each such individual shall establish a file in the Virginia Department of Education by submitting a complete application packet, which shall include official student transcripts. No service requirements or licensing assessments shall be required for any such individual.

E. For licensure by reciprocity, applicants may submit third-party employment verification forms.

F. For licensure by reciprocity, the board shall grant special consideration to individuals who have successfully completed a program offered by a provider that is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.

8VAC20-23-110. Requirements for renewing a license.

A. The Division Superintendent, Postgraduate Professional, Collegiate Professional, Technical Professional, Pupil Personnel Services, Online Teacher, and School Manager Licenses may be renewed upon the completion of 180 270 professional development points within a five-year 10-year validity period based on an individualized professional development plan that includes ongoing, sustained, and high-quality professional development. Individuals renewing a five-year renewable license must complete 180 professional development points. Every person seeking renewal of a license shall complete all renewal requirements, including professional development in a manner prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education, except that no person seeking renewal of a license shall be required to satisfy any such requirement by completing coursework and earning credit at an institution of higher education.

B. An individual seeking renewal shall submit a completed licensure application at the time a renewal request is submitted.

C. Any individual licensed and endorsed to teach (i) middle school civics or economics or (ii) high school government or history who is seeking renewal of such license is required to demonstrate knowledge of Virginia history or state and local government by completing a module or professional development course specifically related to Virginia history or state and local government that has a value of five professional development points.

D. Every person seeking renewal of a license shall provide evidence of completion of certification or training in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators. The certification or training program shall (i) be based on the current national evidence-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, and (ii) include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The Virginia Board of Education shall provide a waiver for this requirement for any person with a disability whose disability prohibits such person from completing the certification or training.

E. Every person seeking renewal of a license shall demonstrate proficiency in the use of educational technology for instruction with an endorsement as a school counselor shall complete training in the recognition of mental health disorder and behavioral distress, including depression, trauma, violence, youth suicide, and substance abuse.

F. Every person seeking renewal of a license shall complete awareness training, provided by the Virginia Department of Education, on the indicators of dyslexia, as that term is defined by the Virginia Board of Education pursuant to regulations, and the evidence-based interventions and accommodations for dyslexia.

G. Training in instructional methods tailored to promote academic progress and effective preparation for the Virginia Standards of Learning tests and end-of-grade assessments is required for licensure renewal.

H. G. Every person seeking renewal or initial license shall complete a study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines developed by the Virginia Board of Education in consultation with the Virginia Department of Social Services.

I. H. When provided by the state, individuals shall complete other professional development activities prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education.

J. I. Professional development points may be accrued by the completion of professional development activities to improve and increase instructional personnel's knowledge of the academic subjects the teachers teach or the area assigned from one or more of the following eight options, in accordance with Virginia Board of Education guidelines set forth in the Virginia Licensure Renewal Manual.

1. College credit. Acceptable coursework offers content that provides new information and is offered on campus, off campus, or through extension by any regionally accredited two-year or four-year college or university. College coursework shall develop further experiences in subject content taught, teaching strategies, uses of technologies, leadership, and other essential elements in teaching to high standards and increasing student learning. No person seeking renewal of a license shall be required to complete coursework and earn credit at an institution of higher learning.

2. Professional conference. A professional conference is a workshop, institute, or seminar of four or more hours that contributes to ongoing, sustained, and high-quality professional development.

3. Curriculum development. Curriculum development is a group activity in which the license holder contributes to the improvement of the curriculum of a school, a school division, or an educational institution in the teaching area assigned. This includes the alignment of curriculum frameworks, instructional materials, and assessments to provide a system with clear expectations of what is to be taught and learned.

4. Publication of article. The article shall contribute to the education profession or to the body of knowledge of the license holder's teaching area or instructional position. This article shall be published in a recognized professional journal. Grant reports that present the results of educational research are acceptable provided the license holder had an active role in planning, analyzing, interpreting, demonstrating, disseminating, or evaluating the study or innovation.

5. Publication of book. Books shall be published for purchase and shall contribute to the education profession or to the body of knowledge of the license holder's teaching area or instructional position. The published book shall increase the field of content knowledge; provide information on planning and assessment for evaluating and providing students with feedback that encourages student progress and measures student achievement; reference instruction, safety, and learning environment; expand upon and communication and community relations working with students, parents, and members of the community to promote broad support for student learning. Points will not be awarded for self-published books.

6. Mentorship. Mentoring is the process by which an experienced professional who has received mentorship training provides assistance to one or more persons for the purpose of improving their performance. Assistance may involve role modeling, direct instruction, demonstration, observation with feedback, developing of plans, and consultation to promote instructional excellence and increased student achievement. Mentoring may include the supervision of a field experience of a pre-service student teacher or an intern in an approved teacher or principal preparation program, as well as mentoring as part of the induction process for a beginning teacher or a first-year administrator. Individuals serving in this role and submitting documentation for license renewal based on the mentorship option shall receive training as a mentor prior to the assignment and at least once during the five-year 10-year renewal cycle.

7. Educational project. Educational projects shall be planned, focused projects based on high standards of teaching and learning. Projects shall result in a written report or other tangible product. Projects shall contribute to the education profession or to the body of knowledge of the license holder's teaching area or instructional position. A project could include participation in new professional responsibilities, such as leading a school improvement initiative.

8. Professional development activity. Professional development activities shall focus on student learning and achievement, schoolwide educational improvement, leadership, subject content, teaching strategies, and use of technologies or other essential elements in teaching to high standards. Activities shall be planned, rigorous, systematic, and promote continuous inquiry and reflection. Local employing educational agencies are encouraged to design professional development activities that are conducted in school settings and linked to student learning and achievement.

K. J. The 180 270 points may be accrued by activities drawn from one or more of the eight renewal options. Individuals renewing a five-year renewable license must complete 180 professional development points as prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education. Renewal work is designed to provide licensed personnel with opportunities for professional development relative to the grade levels or teaching fields to which they are assigned or for which they seek an added endorsement. Such professional development encompasses (i) responsible remediation of any area of an individual's knowledge or skills that fails to meet the standards of competency and (ii) responsible efforts to increase the individual's knowledge of new developments in his field and to respond to new curricular demands within the individual's area of professional competence.

L. K. The proposed work toward renewal in certain options shall be approved in advance by the chief executive officer or designee of the employing educational agency. Persons who are not employed by an educational agency may renew their license by submitting to the Office of Professional Licensure, Virginia Department of Education, a renewal application, fee, the individualized renewal record, and verification of the completion of all renewal requirements, including official student transcripts of coursework taken at a regionally accredited two-year or four-year college or university.

M. L. Virginia school divisions and accredited nonpublic schools shall recommend renewal of licenses using the renewal point system.

8VAC20-23-130. Professional studies requirements for early/primary education, elementary education, and middle education endorsements.

Professional studies requirements for early/primary education, elementary education, and middle education: 21 semester hours. These requirements may be taught in integrated coursework or modules.

1. Human development and learning (birth through adolescence): 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding of the physical, social, emotional, speech and language, and intellectual development of children and the ability to use this understanding in guiding learning experiences and relating meaningfully to students.

b. The interaction of children with individual differences - economic, social, racial, ethnic, religious, physical, and cognitive- should be incorporated to include skills contributing to an understanding of developmental disabilities and developmental issues related to, but not limited to, low socioeconomic status; attention deficit disorders; developmental disorders; gifted education, including the use of multiple criteria to identify gifted students; substance abuse; trauma, including child abuse and neglect and other adverse childhood experiences; and family disruptions.

2. Curriculum and instruction: 3 semester hours.

a. Early/primary education preK-3 or elementary education preK-6 curriculum and instruction: 3 semester hours.

(1) Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding of the principles of learning; the application of skills in discipline-specific methodology; varied and effective methods of communication with and among students; selection and use of materials, including media and contemporary technologies; and selection, development, and use of appropriate curricula, methodologies, and materials that support and enhance student learning and reflect the research on unique, age-appropriate, and culturally relevant curriculum and pedagogy.

(2) Understanding of the principles of online learning and online instructional strategies and the application of skills to deliver online instruction shall be included.

(3) Instructional practices that are sensitive to culturally and linguistically diverse learners, including English learners, gifted and talented students, and students with disabilities, and appropriate for the preK-3 or preK-6 endorsement shall be included.

(4) Teaching methods shall be tailored to promote student engagement and student academic progress and effective preparation for the Virginia Standards of Learning assessments.

(5) Study in (i) methods of improving communication between schools and families; (ii) communicating with families regarding social and instructional needs of children; (iii) ways of increasing family engagement in student learning at home and in school; (iv) the Virginia Standards of Learning; and (v) Virginia Foundation Blocks for Early Learning: Comprehensive Standards for Four-Year-Olds prepared by the Virginia Department of Education's Office of Humanities and Early Childhood shall be included.

(6) Early childhood educators shall understand the role of families in child development and in relation to teaching educational skills.

(7) Early childhood educators shall understand the role of the informal and play-mediated settings for promoting students' skills and development and shall demonstrate knowledge and skill in interacting in such situations to promote specific learning outcomes as reflected in Virginia's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning: Comprehensive Standards for Four-Year-Olds.

(8) Demonstrated proficiency in the use of educational technology for instruction shall be required. Study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines developed by the Virginia Board of Education in consultation with the Virginia Department of Social Services and training or certification in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators shall be included. The certification or training program shall (i) be based on the current national evidenced-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, and (ii) include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

(9) Pre-student teaching experiences (field experiences) should be evident within these skills.

b. Middle education 6-8 curriculum and instruction: 3 semester hours.

(1) Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding of the principles of learning; the application of skills in discipline-specific methodology; varied and effective methods of communication with and among students; selection and use of materials, including media and contemporary technologies; and evaluation of pupil performance.

(2) Understanding of the principles of online learning and online instructional strategies and the application of skills to deliver online instruction shall be included.

(3) Instructional practices that are sensitive to culturally and linguistically diverse learners including English learners, gifted and talented students, and students with disabilities, and shall be appropriate for the middle education endorsement shall be included.

(4) Teaching methods shall be tailored to promote student engagement and student academic progress and effective preparation for the Virginia Standards of Learning assessments.

(5) Study in methods of improving communication between schools and families, ways of increasing family engagement in student learning at home and in school, and family engagement with the Virginia Standards of Learning shall be included.

(6) Demonstrated proficiency in the use of educational technology for instruction shall be included. Study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines developed by the Virginia Board of Education in consultation with the Virginia Department of Social Services and training or certification in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators shall be included. The certification or training program shall (i) be based on the current national evidenced-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, and (ii) include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

(7) Pre-student teaching experiences (field experiences) should be evident within these skills.

3. Classroom and behavior management: 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding and application of research-based classroom and behavior management techniques, classroom community building, positive behavior supports, and individual interventions, including techniques that promote emotional well-being and teach and maintain behavioral conduct and skills consistent with norms, standards, and rules of the educational environment.

b. This area shall address diverse approaches based upon culturally responsive behavioral, cognitive, affective, social and ecological theory and practice.

c. Approaches should support professionally appropriate practices that promote positive redirection of behavior, development of social skills, and of self-discipline.

d. Knowledge and an understanding of various school crisis management and safety plans and the demonstrated ability to create a safe, orderly classroom environment shall be included.

e. The link between classroom management and students' ages shall be understood and demonstrated in techniques used in the classroom.

4. Assessment of and for learning: 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall be designed to develop an understanding and application of creating, selecting, and implementing valid and reliable classroom-based assessments of student learning, including formative and summative assessments. Assessments designed and adapted to meet the needs of diverse learners shall be addressed.

b. Analytical skills necessary to inform ongoing planning and instruction, as well as to understand and help students understand their own progress and growth shall be included.

c. Skills shall also include the ability to understand the relationships among assessment, instruction, and monitoring student progress to include student performance measures in grading practices, the ability to interpret valid assessments using a variety of formats in order to measure student attainment of essential skills in a standards-based environment, and the ability to analyze assessment data to make decisions about how to improve instruction and student performance.

d. Understanding of state assessment programs and accountability systems, including assessments used for student achievement goal-setting as related to teacher evaluation and determining student academic progress shall be included.

e. Knowledge of legal and ethical aspects of assessment and skills for developing familiarity with assessments used in preK-12 education, such as diagnostic, college admission exams, industry certifications, and placement assessment shall be included.

5. Foundations of education and the teaching profession: 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall be designed to develop an understanding of the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations underlying the role, development, and organization of public education in the United States.

b. Attention shall be given to the legal status of teachers and students, including federal and state laws and regulations; school as an organization and culture; and contemporary issues and current trends in education, including the impact of technology on education. Local, state, and federal governance of schools, including the roles of teachers and schools in communities, shall be included.

c. Professionalism and ethical standards, as well as personal integrity shall be addressed.

d. Knowledge and understanding of Virginia's Guidelines for Uniform Performance Standards and Evaluation Criteria for Teachers shall be included.

6. Language and literacy: 6 semester hours.

a. Early/primary preK-3 and elementary education preK-6 - language acquisition and reading and writing: 6 semester hours. Skills listed for these endorsement areas represent the minimum competencies that a beginning teacher shall be able to demonstrate. These skills are not intended to limit the scope of a beginning teacher's program. Additional knowledge and skills that add to a beginning teacher's competencies to deliver instruction and improve student achievement should be included as part of a quality learning experience.

(1) Language acquisition: 3 semester hours. Skills in this area shall be designed to impart a thorough understanding of the Virginia English Standards of Learning, as well as the complex nature of language acquisition as a precursor to literacy. Language acquisition shall follow the typical development of linguistic competence in the areas of phonetics, semantics, syntax, morphology, phonology, and pragmatics.

(2) Reading and writing: 3 semester hours. Skills in this area shall be designed to impart a thorough understanding of the Virginia English Standards of Learning, as well as the reciprocal nature of reading and writing. Reading shall include phonemic and other phonological awareness, concept of print, phonics, fluency, vocabulary development, and comprehension strategies. Writing shall include writing strategies and conventions as supporting composing and written expression and usage and mechanics domains. Additional skills shall include proficiency in understanding the stages of spelling development and the writing process, as well as the ability to foster appreciation of a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts and independent reading.

b. Middle education - language acquisition and reading development: 3 semester hours and literacy in the content areas: 3 semester hours.

(1) Language acquisition and reading development: 3 semester hours. Skills in this area shall be designed to impart a thorough understanding of the complex nature of language acquisition and reading, to include phonemic and other phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary development, and comprehension strategies for adolescent learners. Additional skills shall include proficiency in writing strategies, as well as the ability to foster appreciation of a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts and independent reading for adolescent learners.

(2) Literacy in the content areas: 3 semester hours. Skills in this area shall be designed to impart an understanding of vocabulary development and comprehension skills in English, mathematics, science, history and social science, and other content areas. Strategies include teaching students how to ask effective questions, summarize and retell both verbally and in writing, and to listen effectively. Teaching strategies include literal, interpretive, critical, and evaluative comprehension, as well as the ability to foster appreciation of a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts and independent reading for adolescent readers.

7. Supervised clinical experiences. Supervised clinical experiences shall be continuous and systematic and comprised of early field experiences and a minimum of 10 weeks of successful full-time student teaching in the endorsement area sought under the supervision of a cooperating teacher with demonstrated effectiveness in the classroom. The summative supervised student teaching experience shall include at least 150 clock hours spent in direct teaching at the level of endorsement in a public or accredited nonpublic school. One year of successful full-time teaching experience in the endorsement area in a public or accredited nonpublic school may be accepted in lieu of the supervised teaching experience. For the Online Teacher License only, one year of successful online teaching experience in the endorsement area in a public school, an accredited nonpublic school, or an accredited virtual school or program may be accepted in lieu of the supervised teaching experience. A fully licensed, experienced teacher shall be available in the school building to assist a beginning teacher employed through the alternate route.

8VAC20-23-190. Professional studies requirements for PreK-12, special education, secondary grades 6-12, and adult education endorsements.

Professional studies requirements for preK-12, secondary grades 6-12, and adult education endorsements: 18 semester hours. Professional studies requirements for special education endorsements: 21 semester hours. These requirements may be taught in integrated coursework or modules.

1. Human development and learning (birth through adolescence): 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding of the physical, social, emotional, speech and language, and intellectual development of children and the ability to use this understanding in guiding learning experiences and relating meaningfully to students.

b. The interaction of children with individual differences - economic, social, racial, ethnic, religious, physical, and cognitive - should be incorporated to include skills contributing to an understanding of developmental disabilities and developmental issues related to, but not limited to, low socioeconomic status; attention deficit disorders; developmental disabilities; gifted education, including the use of multiple criteria to identify gifted students; substance abuse; trauma, including child abuse and neglect and other adverse childhood experiences; and family disruptions.

2. Curriculum and instruction: 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding of the principles of learning; the application of skills in discipline-specific methodology; varied and effective methods of communication with and among students; selection and use of materials, including media and contemporary technologies; selection, development, and use of appropriate curricula, methodologies, and materials that support and enhance student learning and reflect the research on unique, age-appropriate, and culturally relevant curriculum and pedagogy.

b. Understanding of the principles of online learning and online instructional strategies and the application of skills to deliver online instruction shall be included.

c. Instructional practices that are sensitive to culturally and linguistically diverse learners, including English learners; gifted and talented students and students with disabilities; and appropriate for the level of endorsement sought shall be included.

d. Teaching methods shall be tailored to promote student academic progress and effective preparation for the Virginia Standards of Learning assessments.

e. Methods of improving communication between schools and families, ways of increasing family engagement in student learning at home and in school, and family engagement with the Virginia Standards of Learning shall be included.

f. Demonstrated proficiency in the use of educational technology for instruction shall be included. Study in child abuse recognition and intervention in accordance with curriculum guidelines developed by the Virginia Board of Education in consultation with the Virginia Department of Social Services and training or certification in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators shall be included. The certification or training program shall (i) be based on the current national evidenced-based emergency cardiovascular care guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of automated external defibrillator, such as a program developed by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, and (ii) include hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

g. Curriculum and instruction for secondary grades 6-12 endorsements shall include middle and secondary education.

h. Pre-student teaching experiences (field experiences) should be evident within these skills. For preK-12, field experiences shall be at the elementary, middle, and secondary levels.

3. Assessment of and for learning: 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall be designed to develop an understanding and application of creating, selecting, and implementing valid and reliable classroom-based assessments of student learning, including formative and summative assessments. Assessments designed and adapted to meet the needs of diverse learners shall be addressed.

b. Analytical skills necessary to inform ongoing planning and instruction, as well as to understand, and help students understand their own progress and growth shall be included.

c. Skills shall also include the ability to understand the relationships among assessment, instruction, and monitoring student progress to include student performance measures in grading practices, the ability to interpret valid assessments using a variety of formats in order to measure student attainment of essential skills in a standards-based environment, and the ability to analyze assessment data to make decisions about how to improve instruction and student performance.

d. Understanding of state assessment programs and accountability systems, including assessments used for student achievement goal-setting as related to teacher evaluation and determining student academic progress shall be included.

e. Knowledge of legal and ethical aspects of assessment and skills for developing familiarity with assessments used in preK-12 education such as diagnostic, college admission exams, industry certifications, and placement assessments shall be included.

4. Foundations of education and the teaching profession: 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall be designed to develop an understanding of the historical, philosophical, and sociological foundations underlying the role, development, and organization of public education in the United States.

b. Attention shall be given to the legal status of teachers and students, including federal and state laws and regulations; school as an organization and culture; and contemporary issues and current trends in education, including the impact of technology on education. Local, state, and federal governance of schools, including the roles of teachers and schools in communities shall be included.

c. Professionalism and ethical standards, as well as personal integrity shall be addressed.

d. Knowledge and understanding of Virginia's Guidelines for Uniform Performance Standards and Evaluation Criteria for Teachers shall be included.

5. Classroom and behavior management: 3 semester hours.

a. Skills in this area shall contribute to an understanding and application of research-based classroom and behavior management techniques, classroom community building, positive behavior supports, and individual interventions, including techniques that promote emotional well-being and teach and maintain behavioral conduct and skills consistent with norms, standards, and rules of the educational environment.

b. This area shall address diverse approaches based upon culturally responsive behavioral, cognitive, affective, social and ecological theory and practice.

c. Approaches should support professionally appropriate practices that promote positive redirection of behavior, development of social skills and of self-discipline.

d. Knowledge and an understanding of various school crisis management and safety plans and the demonstrated ability to create a safe, orderly classroom environment shall be included. The link between classroom management and the students' ages shall be understood and demonstrated in techniques used in the classroom.

6. Language and literacy.

a. Adult education, preK-12, and secondary grades 6-12 - literacy in the content areas: 3 semester hours. Skills in this area shall be designed to impart an understanding of vocabulary development and comprehension skills in English, mathematics, science, history and social science, and other content areas. Strategies include teaching students how to ask effective questions, summarize and retell both verbally and in writing, and listen effectively. Teaching strategies include literal, interpretive, critical, and evaluative comprehension, as well as the ability to foster appreciation of a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts and independent reading for adolescent learners.

b. Special education - language acquisition and reading and writing: 6 semester hours. Skills listed for these endorsement areas represent the minimum competencies that a beginning teacher shall be able to demonstrate. These skills are not intended to limit the scope of a beginning teacher's program. Additional knowledge and skills that add to a beginning teacher's competencies to deliver instruction and improve student achievement should be included as part of a quality learning experience.

(1) Language acquisition: 3 semester hours. Skills in this area shall be designed to impart a thorough understanding of the Virginia English Standards of Learning, as well as the complex nature of language acquisition as a precursor to literacy. Language acquisition shall follow the typical development of linguistic competence in the areas of phonetics, semantics, syntax, morphology, phonology, and pragmatics.

(2) Reading and writing: 3 semester hours. Skills in this area shall be designed to impart a thorough understanding of the Virginia English Standards of Learning, as well as the reciprocal nature of reading and writing. Reading shall include phonemic and other phonological awareness, concept of print, phonics, fluency, vocabulary development, and comprehension strategies. Writing shall include writing strategies and conventions as supporting the composing and written expression and usage and mechanics domains. Additional skills shall include proficiency in understanding the stages of spelling development and the writing process and the ability to foster appreciation of a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts and independent reading.

7. Supervised classroom experience. Supervised clinical experiences shall be continuous and systematic and comprised of early field experiences and a minimum of 10 weeks of successful full-time student teaching in the endorsement area sought under the supervision of a cooperating teacher with demonstrated effectiveness in the classroom. The summative supervised student teaching experience shall include at least 150 clock hours spent in direct teaching at the level of endorsement in a public or accredited nonpublic school.

If a preK-12 endorsement is sought, teaching activities shall be at the elementary and middle or secondary levels. Individuals seeking the endorsement in library media shall complete the supervised school library media practicum in a school library media setting. Individuals seeking an endorsement in an area of special education shall complete the supervised classroom experience requirement in the area of special education for which the endorsement is sought. One year of successful full-time teaching experience in the endorsement area in a public or an accredited nonpublic school may be accepted in lieu of the supervised teaching experience. For the Online Teacher License only, one year of successful online teaching experience in the endorsement area in a public school, an accredited nonpublic school, or an accredited virtual school or program may be accepted in lieu of the supervised teaching experience. A fully licensed, experienced teacher shall be available in the school building to assist a beginning teacher employed through the alternate route.

8VAC20-23-720. Revocation.

A. A license issued by the Virginia Board of Education may be revoked for the following reasons:

1. Obtaining or attempting to obtain a license by fraudulent means or through misrepresentation of material facts;

2. Falsification of school records, documents, statistics, or reports;

3. Conviction of any felony;

4. Conviction of any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude;

5. Conviction of any misdemeanor involving a student or minor;

6. Conviction of any misdemeanor involving drugs (not alcohol);

7. Conduct with direct and detrimental effect on the health, welfare, discipline, or morale of a student or minor;

8. Misapplication of or failure to account for school funds or other school properties with which the licensee has been entrusted;

9. Acts related to secure mandatory tests as specified in subsection A of § 22.1-292.1 of the Code of Virginia;

10. Knowingly and willfully with the intent to compromise the outcome of an athletic competition procure, sell, or administer anabolic steroids or cause such drugs to be procured, sold, or administered to a student who is a member of a school athletic team, or fail to report the use of such drugs by a student to the school principal and division superintendent as required by clause (iii) of subsection A of § 22.1-279.3:1 of the Code of Virginia. Any person whose license is suspended or revoked by the board pursuant to this section shall be ineligible for three school years for employment in the public schools of the Commonwealth;

11. Revocation, suspension, surrender, cancellation, invalidation, or denial of, or other adverse action against, a teaching, administrator, pupil personnel services, or other education-related certificate or license by another state, territory, or country; or denial of an application for any such certificate or license;

12. Founded case of child abuse or neglect after all administrative appeals have been exhausted;

13. Notification of dismissal or resignation pursuant to subsection F of § 22.1-313 of the Code of Virginia; or

14. Other good and just cause in the best interest of the public schools of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

B. The Virginia Board of Education shall revoke the license of any person for whom it has received a notice of dismissal or resignation pursuant to subsection F of § 22.1-313 of the Code of Virginia and, in the case of a person who is the subject of a founded complaint of child abuse or neglect, after all rights to any administrative appeal provided by § 63.2-1526 of the Code of Virginia have been exhausted.

C. Procedures.

1. A complaint may be filed by anyone, but it shall be the duty of a division superintendent, principal, or other responsible school employee to file a complaint in any case in which he has knowledge that a basis for the revocation of a license exists, as set forth in subsection A of this section. The person making the complaint shall submit the complaint in writing to the appropriate division superintendent. If the subject of the complaint is the division superintendent, the person making the complaint may submit the complaint to the chair of the local school board.

2. Upon receipt of the complaint against the holder of a license, a division superintendent or his duly authorized representative shall immediately and thoroughly investigate the complaint conduct an immediate and thorough investigation of any complaint alleging that a license holder has engaged in conduct that may form the basis for the revocation of his license. If, on the basis of such investigation, the division superintendent finds the complaint to be without merit, he shall so notify the complaining party or parties in writing and then close his file on the matter. This action shall be final unless the local school board, on its own motion, votes to proceed to a hearing on the complaint.

C. D. Petition for revocation. Should Upon completing an investigation, should the division superintendent or local school board conclude that there is reasonable cause to believe that a basis for revocation of the license exists the license holder has engaged in conduct that forms the basis for revocation of a license, the license holder shall be notified of the complaint by a written petition for revocation of a license signed by the division superintendent. A copy of such petition shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the license holder's last known address. The school board shall proceed to a hearing on such petition for revocation within 90 days of the mailing of a copy of the petition to the license holder, unless the license holder requests the cancellation of his license in accordance with this chapter; and the school board shall provide a copy of the investigative file and such petition for revocation to the Superintendent of Public Instruction at the time that the hearing is scheduled.

D. E. Form of petition. The petition for the revocation of a license shall set forth:

1. The name and last known address of the person against whom the petition is being filed;

2. The type of license and the license number held by the person against whom the petition is being filed;

3. The basis for revocation and the specific underlying alleged actions;

4. A statement of rights of the person against whom the petition is being filed. The statement of rights shall notify the person that any adverse action against a license, including revocation, will be reported to the division superintendents in Virginia and, through a national clearinghouse, to chief state school officers of the other states and territories of the United States. The statement also shall include notification to the person of the right to cancel the license if he chooses not to contest the allegations in the petition. The statement shall notify the individual that he shall receive a notice of cancellation that will include the statement: "The license holder voluntarily returned the license in response to a petition for revocation." The individual also shall be notified that the cancellation of the license will be reported to division superintendents in Virginia and, through a national clearinghouse, to chief state school officers of the other states and territories of the United States; and

5. Any other pertinent information.

E. F. Filing of petition. The original petition shall be entered in the files of the local school board where the license holder is or was last employed.

F. G. Response to petition. The license holder shall present his written answer to the petition, if any, within 14 days of delivery or attempted delivery of the petition as certified by the United States Postal Service.

1. If the license holder does not wish to contest the allegations in the petition, he may request cancellation of the license by submitting a written, signed statement requesting cancellation in response to a petition for revocation. The division superintendent shall forward the request for cancellation along with the petition for revocation to the Superintendent of Public Instruction within 14 days of receipt. The Superintendent of Public Instruction shall cancel the license and send a notice of cancellation to the person by certified mail within 14 days of receipt of the request for cancellation.

2. If the license holder files a written answer admitting or denying the allegations in the petition or fails to file a written answer within 14 days of delivery or attempted delivery of the petition, as certified by the United States Postal Service, the local school board shall proceed to a hearing as described in subsection D of this section and subdivisions 3 and 4 of this subsection; and within 90 days of mailing the petition to the license holder and provide the Superintendent of Public Instruction a copy of the petition and investigative file at the time the local school board hearing is scheduled. The local school board shall provide a hearing at the time and place of its regular meeting or at such other reasonable time and place it may specify. The license holder or his representative, if any, shall be given at least 14 days' notice of the hearing.

3. At the hearing, the local school board shall receive the recommendation of the division superintendent and then either deny the petition or recommend license revocation or suspension. A decision to deny the petition shall be final, except as specified in subsection G C of this section, and the investigative file on the petition shall be closed and maintained as a separate file. Any record or material relating to the allegations in the petition shall be placed in the investigative file. Should the local school board recommend the revocation or suspension of a license, the division superintendent shall forward the recommendation, petition, and investigative file to the Superintendent of Public Instruction within 14 days.

G. H. Revocation on motion of the Virginia Board of Education. The Virginia Board of Education reserves the right to act directly to revoke a license when the Virginia Board of Education has reasonable cause to believe that subsection A of this section is applicable. The Superintendent of Public Instruction may send a petition for revocation to the license holder as provided by subsection D E of this section. The license holder shall have the opportunity to present his written answer, if any, to the petition within 14 days of delivery or attempted delivery of the petition, as certified by the United States Postal Service.

1. If the license holder does not wish to contest the allegations in the petition, he may request the cancellation of the license by submitting a written, signed statement requesting cancellation in response to a petition for revocation. The Superintendent of Public Instruction shall cancel the license and send a notice of cancellation to the person by certified mail within 14 day of receipt of the request for cancellation.

2. If the license holder files a written answer admitting the allegations in the petition or fails to file a written answer within 14 days of delivery or attempted delivery of the petition, as certified by the United States Postal Service, the petition shall be forwarded to the Virginia Board of Education for action. No revocation will be ordered without the involved license holder being given the opportunity to appear at a hearing specified in 8VAC20-23-780 C.

3. If the license holder timely files his written answer denying the allegations in the petition, the Superintendent of Public Instruction shall schedule a hearing with the investigative panel provided in 8VAC20-23-780 A. The license holder or his representative, if any, shall be given at least 14 days' notice of the hearing. The investigative panel shall take action on the petition as specified in 8VAC20-23-780 A. No revocation will be ordered without the involved license holder being given the opportunity to appear at a hearing specified in 8VAC20-23-780 C.

H. I. Reinstatement of license. A license that has been revoked may be reinstated by the Virginia Board of Education after five years if the board is satisfied that reinstatement is in the best interest of the public schools of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The individual seeking reinstatement shall submit a written request and completed application to the board. Notification to all appropriate parties will be communicated in writing by the Virginia Department of Education.