AZ SB1040

Requires state board of education to adopt a model framework for teacher and principal evaluation instruments by December 15, 2011, with student academic progress data accounting for 33-50% of evaluation outcomes.

School districts and charter schools must use evaluation instruments meeting state board requirements to annually evaluate teachers and principals beginning in school year 2012-2013.

Modifies teacher contract acceptance timeframe from thirty days to fifteen business days from receipt of written contract for both teachers employed less than three years and those employed more than three years.

Defines receipt of contract as occurring when personally delivered, placed in teacher's school mailbox (including email), or two days after being placed in U.S. mail.

Eliminates time windows (March 15-May 15 for teachers under three years; May 15 deadline for teachers over three years) that previously restricted when governing boards could offer or decline to renew teaching contracts.