Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 22.1-298.6 as follows:

§22.1-298.6. Regulations governing licensure; Montessori endorsement.

In its regulations governing licensure established pursuant to §22.1-298.1, the Board shall provide for licensure of teachers with an endorsement in the Montessori method of education. In establishing the requirements for such endorsement, the Board shall require, at a minimum:

1. A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education;

2. Graduation from a teacher education program affiliated with the American Montessori Society or receipt of a certificate from the Association Montessori Internationale; and

3. Employment by a school board in a teaching position for which the Montessori method endorsed by the American Montessori Society or the Association Montessori Internationale is the primary method of instruction.