Teacher credentialing: administrative services credential: occupational and physical therapists.

Assembly Member Blanca Rubio's proposal to amend California's teacher credentialing requirements would allow licensed occupational therapists and physical therapists to pursue administrative services credentials in educational settings. The legislation modifies Section 44270 of the Education Code by adding these healthcare professionals to the list of practitioners eligible for preliminary administrative credentials.

Under the proposed changes, occupational and physical therapists must hold valid California licenses in their respective fields and verify basic teaching skills competency. The bill requires candidates to complete three years of school-based practice as occupational or physical therapists before qualifying for administrative credentials. These requirements parallel existing pathways for teachers, pupil personnel services providers, and other education specialists seeking administrative roles.

The preliminary administrative services credential would remain valid for five years from initial employment in an administrative position and would not be renewable. The Commission on Teacher Credentialing maintains oversight of the credentialing process, including verification of qualifications and experience requirements. The legislation preserves existing credential pathways while expanding opportunities for qualified therapeutic professionals to transition into educational administration.