CA AB2401

Expands integrated teacher preparation programs to include public prekindergarten through grade 12 programs, and authorizes California State University to offer programs leading to an early childhood education specialist credential alongside a baccalaureate degree.

Establishes planning grants of up to $250,000 each for regionally accredited institutions to develop plans for integrated teacher preparation programs in designated shortage fields (special education, bilingual education, science, computer science, technology, engineering, mathematics, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten).

Establishes implementation or expansion grants of up to $500,000 each to develop new or expand existing integrated teacher preparation programs, including early childhood education specialist credential programs and partnerships with California community colleges.

Requires grant recipients to provide program and outcome data for at least 5 years after receiving implementation or expansion grants, and gives preference to proposals that include ratified articulation agreements between community colleges and four-year institutions.

Makes both grant programs contingent on appropriation of funds in the annual Budget Act or other statute, with intent for 40 percent of appropriations designated for planning grants and 60 percent for implementation or expansion grants.