R277-503-9. Endorsement Routes

  (1)(a) An applicant shall successfully complete one of the following programs for an endorsement:

  (i) a Board-approved institution of higher education educator preparation program with endorsements;

  (ii) assessment, approval, and recommendation by a designated and subject-appropriate Board specialist; or

  (iii) a Board-approved Utah institution of higher education or Utah LEA-sponsored endorsement program that includes content knowledge and content-specific pedagogical knowledge approved by the Superintendent.

  (b)(i) The Superintendent shall be responsible for final recommendation and approval for programs described in Subsections (1)(a)(i) and (ii).

  (ii) A university or LEA shall be responsible for final review and recommendation of programs described in Subsection (1)(a)(iii), and the Superintendent shall be responsible for final approval.

  (2)(a) A restricted endorsement shall be available and limited to teachers in necessarily existent small schools as determined under R277-445.

  (b) Teacher qualifications shall include at least nine semester hours of Superintendent-approved university-level courses in each course taught by the teacher holding a restricted endorsement.

  (3) All provisions that directly affect the health and safety of students required for endorsements, such as prerequisites for drivers education teachers or coaches, shall apply to applicants seeking endorsements through all routes under this rule.

  (4) Prior to an individual taking courses, exams or seeking a recommendation in the ARL licensing program, the individual shall have LEA and Superintendent authorization.