(a) In accordance with Section 1412(a)(14)(A), (B), and (D) of Title 20 of the United States Code and Section 300.156(a), (b), and (d) of Title 34 of the Code of Federal Regulations, qualifications for designated instruction and services personnel, related services personnel, and paraprofessionals shall include the following:

(1) Be consistent with a state-approved or state-recognized certification, licensing, registration, or other comparable requirements that apply to the professional discipline in which those personnel are providing special education or designated instruction and services, and related services.

(2) Ensure that personnel who deliver services in their discipline or profession meet the requirements of this subdivision and have not had certification or licensure requirements waived on an emergency, temporary, or provisional basis.

(3) Allow paraprofessionals and assistants who are appropriately trained and supervised, in accordance with state law, regulation, or written policy, in meeting the requirements of this part to be used to assist in the provision of special education, designated instruction and services, and related services under this part to individuals with exceptional needs.

(b) Local educational agencies shall take measurable steps to recruit, hire, train, and retain highly qualified personnel to provide special education, designated instruction and services, and related services under this part to individuals with exceptional needs.

(Added by Stats. 2007, Ch. 454, Sec. 11. Effective October 10, 2007.)