Alternative program for highly qualified special education teachers

(a) An alternative program for highly qualified special education teachers are separate from the programs established under sections one-b and one-h of this article and are applicable only to teachers who have at least a bachelor's degree in a program for the preparation of teachers from an accredited institution of higher education. (b) These programs are subject to the other provisions of sections one-b, one-c, one-e and one-f of this article only to the extent specifically provided in State Board rule. (c) These programs may be an alternative to the standard college and university programs for the education of special education teachers and also may address the content area preparation of certified special education teachers. (d) The programs shall incorporate professional development to the maximum extent possible to help teachers who are currently certified in special education to obtain the required content area preparation. (e) Participation in an alternative education program pursuant to this section may not affect any rights, privileges or benefits to which the participant otherwise would be entitled as a regular employee and may not alter any rights, privileges or benefits of participants on continuing contract status.