This bill proposes several updates to the current statutes regarding school district superintendents in Arizona. Under the new law, the requirement for superintendents to obtain a standard professional superintendent certification from the state board of education would be made mandatory, rather than optional as indicated by the current language. Specifically, the bill would delete the phrase "allow but shall not require" and replace it with a clear requirement for certification. Additionally, it would establish that no school district may offer or renew a superintendent's contract for any term that includes the 2027-2028 school year or later unless the superintendent possesses this certification.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a deadline for current superintendents who lack the required certification, mandating that they obtain it by June 30, 2027, or risk termination of their employment. The bill also clarifies the qualifications for superintendents, requiring both a valid fingerprint clearance card and the standard professional superintendent certification. Other provisions regarding the evaluation of superintendents and the terms of their contracts remain largely unchanged, with minor adjustments to the language for clarity and consistency.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-501.01, 15-503, 15-533, 15-534, 15-756.09, 15-532, 15-219, 15-537, 15-203, 15-782.01, 15-132, 15-552