AZ SB1502

Establishes a literacy endorsement requirement for all certificated teachers providing literacy instruction in kindergarten through grade five, effective August 1, 2025, requiring completion of evidence-based science of reading training and passage of a literacy instruction assessment within three years of certificate issuance (or by August 1, 2028 for teachers certified before August 1, 2025).

Requires all approved educator preparation programs in elementary education, early childhood education, and mild-moderate special education to include coursework necessary to obtain the literacy endorsement beginning August 1, 2025.

Expands the definition of "curriculum" in reading instruction requirements for kindergarten through grade three to explicitly include curriculum used for children with disabilities and English language learners.

Allows local education agencies to verify a teacher's science of reading knowledge and skills through classroom observations and student achievement data as an alternative to completing standard coursework and assessment requirements for the literacy endorsement.

Teachers must demonstrate capability in teaching foundational reading skills, implementing high-quality instructional materials, and providing interventions for students with reading deficiencies including dyslexia characteristics.