AZ HB2534

Requires all certificated teachers to have a baccalaureate degree and valid fingerprint clearance card, with limited exemptions for STEM, career and technical education, Native American language, student teaching intern, JROTC, athletic coaching, and emergency substitute teachers.

Mandates all teacher certificate applicants complete at least 45 classroom hours or 3 college-level credit hours in both research-based systematic phonics instruction and reading instruction including assessments and interventions.

Establishes five types of teaching certificates: standard, alternative, subject-matter expert standard, classroom-based standard, and career and technical education certificates.

Allows teaching certificates to be issued and renewed for at least 12 years with no more than 15 continuing education credits required annually, and permits renewal 2-10 years after expiration for teachers with 10+ years verified experience.

Implements reciprocal teacher certification for applicants from other states who possess valid out-of-state certification and fingerprint clearance, eliminating additional state requirements and subject knowledge proficiency demonstrations.