This bill proposes several updates to the current statutes regarding braille competency for teachers of blind and visually impaired pupils. It modifies the requirements for demonstrating braille competency by allowing teachers to complete the National Certification in Unified English Braille (NCUEB) examination instead of a nationally validated test when available. Additionally, it permits the use of a comparable braille test developed in any university-level teacher preparation program, rather than being limited to the University of Arizona's program. The bill also clarifies that the State Board of Education (SBE) cannot require teachers who completed their programs before July 2016 to demonstrate braille competency until January 1, 2028.

Furthermore, the bill makes technical changes, including the replacement of the term "Assure" with "Ensure" in several instances, and it defines "braille" as the Unified English Braille Code. It also updates the language regarding the provision of educational materials, specifying that electronic versions of textbooks must be provided in a standard format for braille reproduction. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the standards for braille literacy and instruction for teachers while ensuring that existing educators are not unduly burdened by new requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-214
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-214