Bill > AB606

This bill aims to streamline the credentialing process for out-of-state school counselors, school psychologists, and school social workers who want to work in California. The legislation modifies existing education code to allow the Commission on Teacher Credentialing to issue a preliminary professional services credential with a specialization in pupil personnel services to out-of-state applicants who meet specific requirements. These requirements include possessing a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, holding a valid corresponding credential from another state, and passing a criminal background check. The preliminary credential will be valid for two years and can be renewed for an additional two years, provided the credential holder demonstrates satisfactory progress as determined by their local educational agency (which includes school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools). Additionally, the bill expands the commission's ability to approve professional preparation programs for pupil personnel services credentials, requiring such programs (except those in child welfare and attendance services) to be in partnership with a regionally accredited higher education institution. The overall intent is to create more accessible pathways for qualified out-of-state education professionals to work in California while maintaining high standards of professional preparation and background verification.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB606