Literacy endorsement; noncertificated teachers; requirement
The provisions outlined in HB 2074 will have significant implications for teachers in Arizona. Beginning August 1, 2025, teachers issuing literacy instruction will need to obtain the endorsement within three years of receiving their certificate, while those who already have a certificate will need to comply by August 1, 2028. This new requirement aims to uplift teaching standards in early literacy, hence potentially improving reading proficiency among students in the state. By integrating research-based instructional practices into existing curricula, the bill aspires to deliver a uniform quality of literacy education across educational institutions.
House Bill 2074, also known as the literacy endorsement bill, focuses on enhancing literacy education in Arizona by establishing requirements for both certificated and noncertificated teachers who provide literacy instruction in kindergarten through grade five. This bill mandates that teachers must obtain a literacy endorsement to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach reading and literacy. The endorsement process includes completing evidence-based training on the science of reading and passing an assessment that evaluates their competence in teaching foundational reading skills.
Notable points of contention surrounding the bill are likely to arise from the challenges it presents to noncertificated teachers, who may lack immediate pathways to meet the new literacy endorsement requirements. Moreover, while some educators welcome the bill's intent to bolster literacy skills, others argue that imposing additional requirements on teachers may strain resources and create barriers, especially for less experienced instructors. The success of this bill will depend on the support systems established for teachers, particularly regarding the new training and assessment processes mandated by the state board of education.