certification requirements; private school teachers

SB 1576 requires private school teachers who instruct blind or visually impaired students in Arizona to obtain specific certification. Teachers must either earn certification from a nationally or internationally recognized organization for working with blind students, or complete a state-approved university teacher preparation program. This requirement overrides existing general teacher certification rules (Section 15-161) and applies only to private schools serving this student population. The State Board of Education will develop implementing rules but cannot change the core certification standards outlined in the bill.