As part of the state needs assessment process conducted by the *board in accordance with **RCW
28B.76.230, the *board shall, in collaboration with the professional educator standards board, assess the need for additional degree and certificate programs in Washington that specialize in teacher preparation to meet regional or subject area shortages. If the *board determines that there is a need for additional programs, then the *board shall encourage the appropriate institutions of higher education or institutional sectors to create such a program.