OAR 584-225-0040. Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialization

(1) Purpose: An Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization indicates that an educator has obtained additional and specialized preparation to teach prekindergarten through grade 12 students with Autism Spectrum Disorder learning variances. (2) A specialization is an optional indication of specialized expertise or preparation in an area the Commission recognizes as “added value” on a license. A specialization indicates the educator has demonstrated exceptional knowledge, skills and related abilities in that area. A specialization must meet standards set by the Commission. A specialization is not required to teach in the specialization area indicated on the license. (3) Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible to add an Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization to a Preliminary, Professional, Teacher Leader or Legacy Teaching License, an applicant must: (a) Possess an active and valid non-provisional Oregon teaching license with any special education endorsement; (b) Complete a Commission-approved Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization program in accordance with OAR 584-420-0640. (c) At least fifty percent (50%) of the Autism Spectrum Disorder coursework must have been completed within five years prior to the date of application for the specialization; and (d) Submit a complete and correct application to obtain the specialization in the form and manner required by the Commission, including payment of all required fees as provided in OAR 584-200-0050. NOTE: Adding the specialization at the time of renewal will not require an additional cost to the licensure renewal process. (4) An Autism Spectrum Disorder specialization may not be added to a provisional license. (5) The specialization will appear on a license as follows: Specialization: Autism Spectrum Disorder. (6) Once the specialization is indicated on a license, it may only be removed at the educator’s request.