Designated subjects career technical education teaching credentials: waiver.

Senator Grayson's proposal to modify California's career technical education (CTE) credentialing system would create an alternative pathway for experienced trade professionals to obtain teaching credentials through a waiver process administered by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

The legislation establishes three core requirements for individuals seeking credential waivers: possession of a valid industry-recognized certification, five years of documented work experience in a designated trade, and completion of a Commission-approved course on teaching and classroom management. The Commission would maintain a list of eligible trades, initially including general contracting, masonry, welding, HVAC, electrical work, auto and diesel repair, and various healthcare fields. Additional trades may qualify based on skill requirements, instructor shortages, and the presence of established certification programs requiring 4,000 hours of supervised work experience, comprehensive examinations, and continuing education.

The Commission would develop regulations to implement the waiver program, including procedures for reviewing applications and monitoring compliance with certification and experience requirements. While the bill creates this new credentialing option, it maintains existing pathways under Sections 44260 and 44260.1 of the Education Code for obtaining CTE teaching credentials through traditional means.