(a) To ensure the highest level of educator preparation and practice, the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) recognizes that the preparation of educators must be the joint responsibility of educator preparation programs (EPP) and the Early Childhood-Grade 12 public and private schools of Texas. Collaboration in the development, delivery, and evaluation of educator preparation is required.(b) Consistent with Texas Education Code (TEC), §21.049, the SBEC's rules governing educator preparation are designed to promote flexibility and creativity in the design of EPPs to accommodate the unique characteristics and needs of different regions of the state as well as the diverse population of potential educators.