Bill Summaries: S618 (2023-2024 Session)

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  • Summary date: Apr 6 2023 - View summary

    Creates new GS 115C-345 (Teacher Assistant Tuition Reimbursement Program) providing tuition assistance to teacher assistants working in local schools who are pursuing a college degree that will result in teacher licensure. Permits a school board to grant academic leave to a teacher assistant who is pursuing coursework related to such a degree. Teacher assistants receiving awards under the program must fulfill student teacher requirements in the local school administrative unit employing them.

    Provides guidance for selection criteria and directs local boards of education to develop an application and selection process for up to five teacher assistants per year to receive an award of up to $4,500 per year for up to four years. Requires local boards of education to enter into memorandums of understanding with the institutions of higher education where a recipient is enrolled. Also requires local boards of education to report to the Department of Public Instruction on the number of awards and other information related to award recipients. Requires the Department of Public Instruction to report on the results of the program by September 1 of each year to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee.

    Appropriates $1.5 million in recurring funds from the General Fund to the Department of Public Instruction for awards through the program.

    Effective July 1, 2023.