(a) To provide a continuing additional source of qualified educators, the board shall propose rules providing for educator certification programs as an alternative to traditional educator preparation programs. The rules may not provide that a person may be certified under this section only if there is a demonstrated shortage of educators in a school district or subject area.
(b) The board may not require a person employed as a teacher in an alternative education program under § 37.008 or a juvenile justice alternative education program under § 37.011 for at least three years to complete an alternative educator certification program adopted under this section before taking the appropriate certification examination.