(a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Recognition of study in linked learning” is a statement added to a single subject teaching credential that the credential holder has completed a commission-approved program in linked learning teaching methods that can be applied to the academic instruction authorized by his or her credential. A recognition of study in a linked learning teacher preparation program may be offered as part of an initial teacher preparation program or as a separate program for previously credentialed teachers.

(2) “Linked learning programs” are programs and pathways described in Section 52372.5 and may include, but are not limited to, California partnership academies.

(b) The commission may convene a workgroup to develop program standards for the issuance of a recognition of study for linked learning competence for holders of a single subject teaching credential who will be teaching pupils enrolled in linked learning programs pursuant to Section 52372.5.

(c) Members of the workgroup shall include, but are not limited to, representatives from:

(1) The department.

(2) Approved teacher preparation programs, including at least one representative from the California State University, the University of California, and independent institutions of higher education. To the extent practicable, representatives should have an academic interest or prior experience in preparing teachers to teach in linked learning programs.

(3) The business community, including representatives from local chambers of commerce.

(4) School districts, county offices of education, and charter schools that have implemented linked learning programs, California partnership academies, or other similar programs that integrate core academic subject and industry applications.

(5) Regional occupational centers and programs.

(6) Practicing career technical education teachers.

(7) Other organizations deemed appropriate by the commission.

(d) It is the intent of the Legislature that a successful candidate for a recognition of study developed in linked learning pursuant to subdivision (b) demonstrate appropriate knowledge, as determined by the commission based upon the recommendations of the workgroup convened pursuant to subdivision (b). Within the context of the academic content standards in kindergarten and any of grades 1 to 12, inclusive, this knowledge may include, but is not limited to, an understanding of the following:

(1) How to develop and maintain industry and postsecondary educational partnerships.

(2) Ongoing professional learning.

(3) Work-based learning strategies.

(4) Career exposure and development.

(5) Interdisciplinary collaboration and project-based teaching methods.

(6) California Career Technical Education Model Curriculum Standards adopted by the state board.

(e) With respect to any recognition of study in linked learning issued pursuant to subdivision (b), the California State University and other teacher preparation institutions are encouraged to establish goals for increasing the number of teachers prepared through linked learning programs.

(f) Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment programs are encouraged to provide appropriate support, mentoring, and assistance to beginning teachers who are teaching in linked learning programs, including candidates who are in externships.

(g) The commission may work with the Superintendent to gather and post, on an appropriate Internet Web site, best practices from school districts and schools on curriculum development and professional development relating to implementing and sustaining multiple pathway programs.

(h) The holder of a single subject teaching credential receiving a recognition of study in linked learning pursuant to subdivision (b) is not authorized to teach subject matter content or English learners unless he or she holds an appropriate authorization or is employed on the basis of a local assignment option.

(i) Any recognition of study in linked learning issued pursuant to subdivision (b) shall not be considered a type of authorization, shall not be used as a condition of employment, shall not replace a subject matter competence requirement, and shall not be used in making employment decisions pursuant to Section 44955.

(Added by Stats. 2011, Ch. 259, Sec. 2. (AB 1304) Effective January 1, 2012.)