CA AB1853

Authorizes the Commission on Teacher Credentialing to develop program standards for a "recognition of study in transitional kindergarten" that can be added to multiple subject teaching credentials for teachers teaching transitional kindergarten pupils.

Requires the workgroup developing standards to include representatives from teacher preparation programs, school districts, higher education researchers, transitional kindergarten teachers, and parent representatives.

Prohibits use of General Fund moneys; requires the workgroup to be convened only after the Department of Finance confirms that private funds sufficient to support the workgroup's activities have been deposited with the state.

Specifies that the recognition is not an authorization, cannot be used as a condition of employment, does not replace subject matter competence requirements, and cannot be used in employment reduction decisions.

Authorizes the commission to work with the Superintendent of Public Instruction to gather and post best practices on curriculum development and professional development for transitional kindergarten programs on an Internet website.