Legislative Tracker: Bills to Address Teacher Shortages (2023-2024)

June 14, 2024
|


Across the 11-state Midwest, state lawmakers are considering a litany of legislative proposals seeking to address teacher shortages. The table on this page lists legislation introduced and/or enacted during the current legislative session. Among the policies being pursued under these new laws:

  • changes to teacher licensure requirements;
  • upskilling pathways for paraprofessionals;
  • new financial assistance for new and veteran teachers, and;
  • modifications in the requirements for substitute teachers

CSG Midwest is tracking teacher-shortage measures in state legislatures as part of its support of the Midwestern Legislative Conference Education & Workforce Development Committee. It will continue to do so throughout the biennium.

The goal of this tracker is to identify and list all relevant proposals and laws initiated this legislative session. If you believe a proposal or law from 2023 or 2024 should be added to this tracker, please contact Derek Cantù, CSG Midwest’s lead staff person for the Midwestern Legislative Conference Education & Workforce Development Committee.

For more information about legislation enacted in recent years, read the policy brief “State Efforts to Combat Teacher Shortages”

See previous legislative tracker of teacher-shortage-related laws enacted in 2023.

StateBill NumberDescriptionPrimary SponsorDate IntroducedLast ActionLast Action Date
IowaH.F. 255A bill for an act modifying requirements related to teacher intern license programs and licenses and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners and establishing a temporary initial teaching license to be issued by the board of educational examiners to applicants who complete an alternative teacher certification program.(Formerly HF 4.)IA House Committee on EducationFebruary 9, 2023EnactedMay 17, 2024
MichiganS.B. 518Education: teachers and administrators; interim teaching certification process; modify. Amends sec. 1531i of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1531i).Sen. Darrin CamilleriSeptember 20, 2023EnactedJune 11, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 4652Amends the Board of Higher Education Act. Provides that, subject to appropriation, the Board of Higher Education shall create a student teaching stipend program to alleviate the financial burden of student teaching and to encourage students to pursue teaching careers to alleviate this State's teacher shortage. Provides that to participate in the stipend program, an eligible student must be placed as a student teacher no later than June 1, 2025 or no later than June 1 each year thereafter. Provides that an educator preparation program shall notify the Board of all eligible students who qualify for the stipend program by July 1, 2025 and no later than July 1 each year thereafter and all eligible students shall be participants in the stipend program. Provides that no later than August 1, 2025 and no later than August 1 each year thereafter, subject to available appropriations, the Board shall disburse to each educator preparation program funds to distribute to each eligible student a stipend of up to $10,000 per semester for up to 2 consecutive semesters, plus additional funds to pay the direct costs of operating the stipend program. Provides that the educator preparation program shall distribute stipend funds using the standard methods for allocating State-based financial aid or as wages for employment to each eligible student in monthly installments. Sets forth additional provisions concerning the distribution of funds. Provides for rulemaking.Sen. David "Dave" KoehlerJanuary 31, 2024Passed Original ChamberMay 21, 2024
WisconsinS.B. 608This bill requires the Department of Public Instruction to issue a provisional license to teach to an individual who a) passes a background check, b) worked as a paraprofessional for at least three days per week for at least one school year in a classroom, and c) is recommended for licensure by the principal of the school at which the individual worked as a paraprofessional, the director of teaching and learning for the school district in which the individual worked as a paraprofessional, and the school district administrator of the school district in which the individual worked as a paraprofessional. Under the bill, a provisional license to teach that is issued based on these criteria authorizes the license holder to teach only in the school district that recommended the individual for the license. Additionally, during the first school year during which the license holder teaches under the license, the license holder must be mentored by a teacher who has taught for at least three school years in the school district. Finally, the bill specifies that DPI must issue a lifetime license based on a provisional license issued under the bill if the license holder successfully completes six semesters of teaching experience.Sen. Steve NassOctober 30, 2023Sent to ExecutiveMay 14, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 2040Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act with respect to the Minority Teachers of Illinois scholarship program. Provides that any money appropriated to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission for scholarship awards for a particular academic year that remains unused at the end of that academic year shall be deposited into the Student Teaching Fund. Requires the Commission to establish and administer a student teaching stipend program in which the Commission receives and considers applications for a stipend from scholarship recipients who are student teaching. Subject to appropriation from the Student Teaching Fund, provides that the Commission shall select stipend recipients from among applicants who are in financial need. Provides that the amount and payment of any stipend shall be determined by the Commission, and provides for rulemaking. Amends the State Finance Act to create the Student Teaching Fund as a special fund in the State treasury.Sen. Don HarmonFebruary 9, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMay 3, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 2265Amends the School Code. Provides that the State Board of Education shall establish a teacher recruitment and retention program, which shall encourage both new and experienced teachers to seek employment with qualifying public schools by providing for a refundable income tax credit to each participating teacher in the amount of $3,000 per school year for no more than 5 consecutive school years. Contains requirements for participating school districts and participating teachers. Amends the Illinois Income Tax Act establishing the $3,000 tax credit for individuals designated by the State Board of Education as a participating teacher in the teacher recruitment and retention program. Effective July 1, 2023.Sen. Tom Bennett February 10, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMay 3, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 2236Amends the School Boards Article of the School Code. Removes the repeal date for the short-term substitute teacher training program. Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning short-term substitute teacher licenses, removes the June 30, 2023 expiration date for issuing short-term substitute teacher licenses. Removes the licensing fees for short-term substitute teacher, substitute teaching, and professional teaching licenses.Sen. Steve StadelmanFebruary 10, 2023Passed Original ChamberMay 3, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 2776Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act with respect to the Minority Teachers of Illinois scholarship program. Requires the Illinois Student Assistance Commission to establish and administer a student teaching stipend program. Subject to appropriation, requires the Commission to receive and consider applications for additional funds from recipients of scholarships who are student teaching. Provides that the Commission shall select stipend recipients from among applicants who are in financial need. Provides that certain recipients may receive an additional payment for other expenses during the year in which the recipient is engaged in student teaching. Provides for rulemaking.Sen. Natalie ToroJanuary 17, 2024Introduced or PrefiledMay 3, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 3215Amends the Board of Higher Education Act. Provides that, subject to appropriation, the Board of Higher Education shall create a student teaching stipend program to alleviate the financial burden of student teaching, to encourage students to pursue teaching careers to alleviate this State's teacher shortage, and to encourage teachers to be matched with student teachers. Provides that, subject to available appropriations, the Board shall disburse to each educator preparation program funds to distribute to each eligible student a stipend of up to $10,000 per semester for up to 2 consecutive semesters, plus additional funds to pay the direct costs of operating the stipend program. Provides that, subject to available appropriations, the Board shall disburse to each educator preparation program funds to distribute to each eligible cooperating teacher a stipend of up to $2,000 per semester for up to 2 consecutive semesters per academic year, plus additional funds to pay the direct costs of operating the stipend program. Sets forth provisions concerning the distribution of funds to eligible students and eligible cooperating teachers. Provides that an educator preparation program may not prohibit an eligible student or an eligible cooperating teacher from participating in the stipend program or receiving a stipend from the stipend program. Sets forth provisions concerning cooperating teacher training. Provides that, subject to available appropriations, the Board, in collaboration with the State Board of Education, shall submit a report evaluating the impact of the stipend program on educator preparation programs to the General Assembly and Governor on or before June 30, 2028. Provides for rulemaking. Effective immediately.Sen. David "Dave" KoehlerFebruary 6, 2024Introduced or PrefiledMay 3, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 5393Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Creates a Provisional Educator License and provides that a Provisional Educator License may be issued to persons who have completed the required education coursework in a State-approved educator preparation program, an educator preparation program approved by another state, or comparable educator program in another country, have completed 2 years of student teaching with satisfactory evaluation of performance, and met any other requirements set by the State Board of Education, but have failed to pass a content area knowledge test under the Code. Provides that a Provisional Educator License is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance and may not be renewed. In provisions concerning educator testing, removes provisions stating that there shall be no exceptions for passing a test of content area knowledge. Removes provisions stating that no candidate shall be allowed to student teach or serve as the teacher of record until he or she has passed the applicable content area test. Sets forth exceptions as to when a candidate seeking licensure may not be required to pass a test of content area knowledge. Provides that a candidate seeking licensure for a Professional Educator License may either complete the required testing under the Code or have held a Provisional Educator License for 2 years (instead of completing the required testing under the Code).Rep. Rita MayfieldFebruary 9, 2024Out of CommitteeApril 19, 2024
NebraskaL.B. 1284Provide for and change teacher incentive programs, provide for a pilot program to distribute menstrual products in schools, a Dyslexia Research Grant Program, a professional learning system relating to instruction in reading, and a statewide computer science education expansion program, create and change authorized use of certain funds, and change provisions relating to school psychologists and certain scholarship programsSen. Lynne WalzJanuary 16, 2024EnactedApril 25, 2024
WisconsinA.B. 554This bill changes certain race-based programs or requirements in higher education. In general, the bill modifies these programs and requirements so they apply to disadvantaged students rather than minority students.Rep. Scott KrugOctober 24, 2023Passed Second ChamberApril 15, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 4173Amends the School Code. Allows a METT Educator District License for teaching a course in manufacturing, engineering, technology, or a trade (METT) to be issued to an applicant who has at least 10,000 working hours in a trade. Provides that a METT Educator District License may be issued to qualified individuals who have not obtained a bachelor's degree or an equivalent number of hours in an educational program at an institution of higher education. Provides that a METT Educator District License is valid until June 30 immediately following 5 years of the license being issued and may be renewed. Provides that a METT Educator District License is valid only for the teaching of a course that the State Board of Education has identified as related to the work experience of the licensee. Sets forth other provisions regarding the license. Amends the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act. Provides that the State Board of Education, in conjunction with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity or the Department of Labor, shall expand a database to identify METT labor shortages. Provides that by July 1, 2026, school districts in identified regions shall be notified by the State Board and shall participate in a College and Career Pathway Endorsement program and offer a METT endorsement. Makes other changes.Rep. La Shawn FordOctober 13, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 5, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 4787Creates the Paraprofessional Fast Track to Teaching Degree Pilot Program Act. Makes findings. Provides that the Paraprofessional Fast Track to Teaching Degree Pilot Program is created for a 2-year degree pathway by which paraprofessional educators may enroll to achieve the education requirements to attain a professional educator license in this State, which shall comply with the standards of the State Board of Education and the Board of Higher Education. Provides that, subject to appropriation, beginning with the 2024-2025 academic year or, if funds are not appropriated for the Program that academic year, beginning with the academic year in which funds are appropriated for the Program, the State Board of Education and the Board of Higher Education shall coordinate with each other to assign a qualified individual to serve as a Program director to develop the curriculum for the Program. Provides that one public elementary or public secondary school and one public university in this State shall be chosen to develop a program for transitioning paraprofessionals to teachers. Includes the core components of the Program. Provides that the State Board of Education and the Board of Higher Education must submit a report to the Governor, the General Assembly, and the Legislative Reference Bureau detailing the impact of the Program and then the Program is dissolved and the Act is repealed. Effective immediately.Rep. Joe SosnowskiFebruary 5, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 5, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 5025Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Allows an applicant to qualify for a Short-Term Substitute Teaching License if the applicant has retired in good standing while holding a valid paraprofessional educator endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations.Rep. Laura DiasFebruary 7, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 5, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 5482Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. Provides that, notwithstanding any other law of this State to the contrary, effective on January 1, 2025, or as soon thereafter as is feasible, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission shall release from remaining repayment obligations any recipient of a scholarship, grant, or waiver that has been or may be converted to a student loan under a State program for which the Commission is responsible for collections. In provisions concerning the Minority Teachers of Illinois scholarship program, the Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program, special education teacher scholarships, the Optometric Education Scholarship Program, Post-Master of Social Work School Social Work Professional Educator License scholarships, and the iGROW Tech Scholarship Program, removes provisions concerning repaying funds received due to the specified failure of the recipient to fulfill scholarship, grant, or waiver obligations. In provisions concerning special education teacher scholarships and Post-Master of Social Work School Social Work Professional Educator License scholarships, provides that a recipient shall sign an agreement that the recipient will meet specified qualifications and provide evidence to the Commission that the recipient is fulfilling or fulfilled the terms of the agreement (instead of specifying that an applicant shall meet the specified qualifications) Amends the Nursing Education Scholarship Law to make similar changes.Rep. Edgar GonzalezFebruary 9, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 5, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 5437Amends the Grow Your Own Teacher Education Act. Transfers the powers and duties under the Act from the Board of Higher Education to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission. Replaces the requirement that the Board of Higher Education must contract annually for an independent evaluation of program implementation with the requirement that the Illinois Student Assistance Commission monitor and evaluate the implementation of the program. Provides that the Illinois Student Assistance Commission may elect to contract for an independent evaluation with an outside entity. Effective immediately.Rep. Tony McCombieFebruary 9, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 5, 2024
OhioH.B. 411To amend section 3317.13 of the Revised Code to increase the base teacher salary to $50,000.Rep. Joseph "Joe" MillerFebruary 12, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 2, 2024
KansasS.B. 544AN ACT concerning postsecondary education; relating to scholarship programs; establishing the Kansas education opportunity scholarship program to replace the Kansas ethnic minority scholarship program; amending K.S.A. 74-3284, 74-3285, 74-3286, 74-3287, 74-3288 and 74-3289 and repealing the existing sections.KS Senate Committee on Assessment and TaxationMarch 12, 2024Passed Original ChamberApril 30, 2024
South DakotaS.B. 127Revise the requirements pertaining to average teacher compensation and to establish a minimum teacher salary.Sen. Jim StalzerJanuary 23, 2024EnactedMarch 26, 2024
MinnesotaS.F. 5204Teacher and paraprofessional compensation working group establishmentSen. Mary KuneshMarch 25, 2024Introduced or PrefiledMarch 25, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 3634Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning Substitute Teaching Licenses, requires an applicant who is enrolled in an approved educator preparation program to have either earned at least 75 credit hours or completed 3 semesters in an educator preparation program (rather than requiring the applicant to have earned at least 90 credit hours). Provides that a school district may not require an individual who retired within the last 5 years while holding a valid Professional Educator License or Educator License with Stipulations to seek or hold a Substitute Teaching License to teach as a substitute teacher if substitute teaching for no more than one year. Provides that a retired educator may not be charged an application fee for a Substitute Teaching License if certain conditions are met.Sen. Tom BennettFebruary 9, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 9, 2024
MinnesotaS.F. 4219Special education teacher pipeline grant uses modifications and appropriationSen. Gene DorninkFebruary 26, 2024Out of CommitteeMarch 14, 2024
IndianaH.B. 1042Provides that any balance in the next generation Hoosier educators scholarship fund remaining after the award of next generation Hoosier educators scholarships for a fiscal year may be used to fund additional transition to teaching scholarships. Removes a provision concerning the reduction of scholarships if certain limits are exceeded.Rep. Dave HeineJanuary 8, 2024EnactedMarch 11, 2024
WisconsinS.B. 596This bill changes certain race-based programs or requirements in higher education. In general, the bill modifies these programs and requirements so they apply to disadvantaged students rather than minority students.Sen. Van WanggaardOctober 30, 2023Out of CommitteeApril 15, 2024
MinnesotaH.F. 4361Teacher licensure provisions modified, and reports required.Rep. Josiah HillFebruary 28, 2024Out of CommitteeMarch 7, 2024
WisconsinA.B. 1123Under this bill, the Department of Public Instruction must contract with a nonprofit organization to establish a fine arts teacher mentorship program to provide materials and services, including resources, advice, and mentorship connections, to beginning music, art, and performing arts teachers. The nonprofit organization must match the amount provided by DPI for the mentorship program. The nonprofit organization must also provide a quarterly report to DPI on the organization's compliance with the mentorship program requirements and its expenditures on the mentorship program.Rep. Jeffrey "Jeff" MursauMarch 6, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
MinnesotaS.F. 4560Teacher Licensure provisions modificationsSen. Steve CwodzinskiMarch 4, 2024Introduced or PrefiledMarch 4, 2024
MinnesotaH.F. 3983Special education teacher pipeline grant uses modified.Rep. Peggy BennettFebruary 19, 2024Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 28, 2024
WisconsinA.B. 1005Under current law, the state superintendent of public instruction must license all teachers for the public schools of the state; make rules establishing standards of attainment and procedures for the examination and licensing of teachers; and prescribe by rule standards, requirements, and procedures for the approval of teacher preparatory programs leading to licensure. Currently, the state superintendent may not approve a teacher preparatory program unless the program requires the student to complete one full semester of student teaching following the daily schedule and semester calendar of the cooperating school. Under this bill, the state superintendent may not approve a teacher preparatory program unless it requires a student to complete at least one but not more than four full semesters of student teaching following the daily schedule and semester calendar of the cooperating school. In addition, the state superintendent may approve a teacher preparatory program that requires two to four semesters of student teaching only if the institution of higher education awards general education credits to the student for the second, third, and fourth semesters of student teaching, as applicable.Rep. Jeffrey "Jeff" MursauJanuary 25, 2024Out of CommitteeApril 15, 2024
MinnesotaS.F. 3844Short-call substitute teacher pilot program modificationSen. Zach DuckworthFebruary 19, 2024Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 19, 2024
WisconsinA.B. 640This bill requires the Department of Public Instruction to issue a provisional license to teach to an individual who a) passes a background check, b) worked as a paraprofessional for at least three days per week for at least one school year in a classroom, and c) is recommended for licensure by the principal of the school at which the individual worked as a paraprofessional, the director of teaching and learning for the school district in which the individual worked as a paraprofessional, and the school district administrator of the school district in which the individual worked as a paraprofessional. Under the bill, a provisional license to teach that is issued based on these criteria authorizes the license holder to teach only in the school district that recommended the individual for the license. Additionally, during the first school year during which the license holder teaches under the license, the license holder must be mentored by a teacher who has taught for at least three school years in the school district. Finally, the bill specifies that DPI must issue a lifetime license based on a provisional license issued under the bill if the license holder successfully completes six semesters of teaching experience.Rep. Janel BrandtjenNovember 8, 2023Out of CommitteeApril 15, 2024
MinnesotaH.F. 3476Short-call substitute teacher pilot program modified.Rep. Patricia "Patty" MuellerFebruary 12, 2024Introduced or PrefiledMarch 4, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 3684Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Provides that if the State Board declares a teacher shortage, then an applicant shall be deemed to have passed a test of content area knowledge. Provides that the State Board shall adopt rules to define a teacher shortage, and shall post and publicly display this definition on the State Board's Internet website.Sen. Michael "Mike" HalpinFebruary 9, 2024Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 9, 2024
NebraskaL.B. 1053Authorize an extended-career retention grant under the Nebraska Teacher Recruitment and Retention ActSen. Lynne WalzJanuary 8, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 18, 2024
NebraskaL.B. 1121Authorize additional grants under the Nebraska Teacher Recruitment and Retention ActSen. George DunganJanuary 10, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 18, 2024
NebraskaL.B. 1238Adopt the Special Educators of Tomorrow ActSen. Lynne WalzJanuary 16, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 18, 2024
NebraskaL.B. 1160LB1160 would make changes to the Attracting Excellence to Teaching Program and the Attracting Excellence to Teaching Cash Fund to improve the awarding of forgivable loans to students. The bill would increase the forgivable loan for education majors from $3,000 to $6,000 but decrease the number of years it could be awarded from five to three years. This bill is intended to reflect that most education majors are not declared until their sophomore or junior year and would therefore not be eligible for the forgivable loan until then.Sen. Lynne WalzJanuary 11, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 18, 2024
South DakotaH.B. 1066Provide a grant to qualifying teachers to incentivize recruitment and retention and to make an appropriation therefor.Sen. Larry ZikmundJanuary 10, 2024Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 17, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 4311Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Authorizes the issuance of short-term substitute teaching licenses to applicants who hold a bachelor's degree or higher from an unaccredited institution of higher education. Effective immediately.Rep. Travis WeaverDecember 21, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 16, 2024
NebraskaL.B. 985LB 985 adjusts a portion of the Nebraska Recruitment and Retention Act. LB 985 requires that teachers endorsed to become certified in SPED, STEM, or Dual Credit must also contract to teach in their field of endorsement in order to receive the high-need retention grant.Sen. Lou Ann LinehanJanuary 5, 2024Introduced or PrefiledApril 25, 2024
IowaS.F. 2015A bill for an act relating to applicant priority and grant award amounts under the teach Iowa scholar program.Sen. Jeff TaylorJanuary 8, 2024Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 11, 2024
IowaH.F. 2033A bill for an act establishing the interstate teacher mobility compact.Rep. Chad IngelsJanuary 11, 2024Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 11, 2024
IndianaH.B. 1037Provides that, for each school year beginning after June 30, 2025, a school corporation shall, if the school corporation determines that the school corporation cannot establish a minimum salary of $60,000 for each full-time teacher, submit a report to the department of education explaining the school corporation's inability to meet the minimum threshold requirement. (Current law establishes this requirement if a school corporation determines that the school corporation cannot establish a minimum salary of $40,000 for each full-time teacher.)Rep. Sheila KlinkerJanuary 8, 2024Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 8, 2024
WisconsinA.B. 639This bill requires the Department of Public Instruction to offer a statutory pathway to teacher licensure based on equivalency. Prior to August 1, 2022, DPI offered a similar pathway under its administrative rules.Rep. Janel BrandtjenNovember 8, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
WisconsinS.B. 607This bill requires the Department of Public Instruction to offer a statutory pathway to teacher licensure based on equivalency. Prior to August 1, 2022, DPI offered a similar pathway under its administrative rules.Sen. Joan BallwegOctober 30, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
IllinoisS.B. 2627Amends the Downstate Teachers Article of Illinois Pension Code. Specifies that the provision that requires an employer to make an additional contribution to the System for certain salary increases greater than 6% excludes salary increases necessary to bring a school board in compliance with the changes to the minimum salary provisions of the School Code under the amendatory Act. Amends the Employment of Teachers Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning the minimum salary, provides that the minimum salary shall be $50,000 for the 2024-2025 school year, $55,000 for the 2025-2026 school year, and $60,000 for the 2026-2027 school year. Provides that the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability shall certify and publish the minimum salary rate to be used for the 2027-2028 school year (rather than for the 2024-2025 school year) no later than September 30, 2026 (rather than September 30, 2023); makes conforming changes.Sen. Rachel VenturaOctober 25, 2023Introduced or PrefiledOctober 25, 2023
WisconsinA.B. 521The bill creates a new grant program administered by the Department of Public Instruction and available to school districts and operators of independent charter schools to reimburse the cost of “Grow Your Own” programs. Under the bill, Grow Your Own programs include high school clubs that encourage careers in teaching, payment of costs associated with current staff acquiring education needed for licensure, support for career pathways using dual enrollment, support for partnerships focused on attracting or developing new teachers, or incentives for paraprofessionals to gain licensure. The bill appropriates $5,000,000 in fiscal year 2024-25 for this purpose.Rep. Katrina ShanklandOctober 18, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
WisconsinA.B. 517This bill requires a school board to pay a full-time teacher an annual salary in each school year that is not less than the annual salary paid to a state legislator for that school year (base salary). In addition, if a teacher has worked as a teacher for at least 10 school years, the bill requires a school board to pay the teacher an annual salary that is not less than the base salary for the school year plus $15,000. Finally, if a teacher has worked as a teacher for at least 20 school years, the bill requires a school board to pay the teacher an annual salary that is not less than $100,000.Rep. Katrina ShanklandOctober 18, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
WisconsinS.B. 511This bill requires a school board to pay a full-time teacher an annual salary in each school year that is not less than the annual salary paid to a state legislator for that school year (base salary). In addition, if a teacher has worked as a teacher for at least 10 school years, the bill requires a school board to pay the teacher an annual salary that is not less than the base salary for the school year plus $15,000. Finally, if a teacher has worked as a teacher for at least 20 school years, the bill requires a school board to pay the teacher an annual salary that is not less than $100,000.Sen. Chris LarsonOctober 16, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
WisconsinS.B. 498The bill creates a new grant program administered by the Department of Public Instruction and available to school districts and operators of independent charter schools to reimburse the cost of “Grow Your Own” programs. Under the bill, Grow Your Own programs include high school clubs that encourage careers in teaching, payment of costs associated with current staff acquiring education needed for licensure, support for career pathways using dual enrollment, support for partnerships focused on attracting or developing new teachers, or incentives for paraprofessionals to gain licensure. The bill appropriates $5,000,000 in fiscal year 2024-25 for this purpose.Sen. Chris LarsonOctober 16, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
MichiganH.B. 4820Education: teachers and administrators; factors for personnel decisions; modify. Amends sec. 1248 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1248). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4354'23Rep. Phil SkaggsJune 15, 2023EnactedAugust 22, 2023
MichiganS.B. 161Education: teachers and administrators; certain requirements concerning teacher certification; modify. Amends secs. 1526, 1531, 1531d, 1531j & 1531k of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1526 et seq.).Sen. Erika GeissMarch 8, 2023EnactedAugust 22, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 2147Amends the Illinois Pension Code. In the Downstate Teacher Article: provides that through June 30, 2026 (instead of June 30, 2023), an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status if that employment is not within the school year during which service was terminated and does not exceed 120 paid days or 600 paid hours in each school year; deletes language concerning an additional 20 days or 100 paid hours that an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status for the period between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022; and provides that a person may receive optional credit for certain periods of service as a student teacher. Makes conforming changes. Amends the Retirement Systems Reciprocal Act (Article 20) of the Code. In the definition of "pension credit", provides that the one-year limitation does not apply to persons who acquire credit as a substitute teacher covered under the Downstate Teacher Article and reach retirement eligibility under the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Article. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.Rep. Stephanie KifowitFebruary 6, 2023EnactedAugust 11, 2023
IllinoisS.B. 1488Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning educator testing, removes the provision that requires the teacher performance assessment to be approved by the State Board of Education, in consultation with the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board. Provides instead that each teacher preparation program in this State may use any evidence-based assessment of teacher effectiveness that aligns to current State teaching standards. Effective July 1, 2023.Rep. Carol AmmonsFebruary 7, 2023EnactedAugust 4, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 3498Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. With regard to the Minority Teachers of Illinois scholarship program, the Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program, and special education teacher scholarships, provides that if a recipient of one of those scholarships who is in a repayment plan with the Illinois Student Assistance Commission subsequently teaches at a school meeting certain descriptions under those scholarship programs, the Commission may reduce the amount owed by the recipient in proportion to the amount of the teaching obligation completed. Effective immediately.Sen. David "Dave" KoehlerFebruary 17, 2023EnactedAugust 4, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 1291Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning the Illinois Teaching Excellence Program, provides that the annual incentive shall be $2,250 (instead of $1,500) and that 45 hours of mentoring shall be required (instead of 30). Provides that funds may also be used for professional development training provided by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards or the National Board Resource Center. Effective immediately.Sen. Michael "Mike" HastingsJanuary 20, 2023EnactedJune 30, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 3442Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning Substitute Teaching Licenses, provides that if there is no licensed teacher under contract because of an emergency situation, then a district may employ a substitute teacher for no longer than 30 calendar days per each vacant position in the district if the district notifies the appropriate regional office of education within 5 business days after the employment of the substitute teacher in that vacant position (instead of employment of the substitute teacher in the emergency situation). Provides that a district may continue to employ that same substitute teacher in that same vacant position for one or more additional 30 calendar day periods if, prior to the expiration of the then-current 30 calendar day period, the district files a written request with the appropriate regional office of education for a 30 calendar day extension on the basis that the position remains vacant and the district continues to actively seek qualified candidates. Provides that each extension request shall be deemed granted unless denied in writing by the regional office of education. Provides that an emergency situation is one in which a vacancy has occurred (instead of an unforeseen vacancy has occurred) and (i) a teacher is unexpectedly unable to fulfill his or her contractual duties or (ii) teacher capacity needs of the district exceed previous indications or vacancies are unfilled due to a lack of qualified candidates, and the district is actively engaged in advertising to hire a fully licensed teacher for the vacant position (instead of (i) a teacher is unable to fulfill his or her contractual duties or (ii) teacher capacity needs of the district exceed previous indications, and the district is actively engaged in advertising to hire a fully licensed teacher for the vacant position).Rep. Fred CrespoFebruary 17, 2023EnactedJune 30, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 3801Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In provisions concerning the Illinois Teaching Excellence Program, provides that in addition to other monetary assistance and incentives, if adequate funds are available, retention bonuses of $4,000 per year for 2 consecutive years shall be awarded to National Board certified teachers employed in hard-to-staff schools. This bonus shall be distributed to the respective school district or directly to the qualified educators. Provides that the State Board of Education's annual budget shall set out a separate line item for the appropriation of this bonus.Rep. Mary FlowersFebruary 17, 2023EnactedJune 30, 2023
IllinoisS.B. 1468Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that during the period between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2026, an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status if that employment is not within the school year during which service was terminated and does not exceed 150 paid days or 750 paid hours in each school year. Provides that beginning July 1, 2026 (instead of July 1, 2023), an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status if that employment is not within the school year during which service was terminated and does not exceed 100 paid days or 500 paid hours in each school year. Effective immediately.Sen. Sue RezinFebruary 7, 2023EnactedJune 9, 2023
NebraskaL.B. 298LB298 will bolster existing law by requiring every school district to report information relating to dyslexia to the State Department of Education. Each school district will report the number of students tested for dyslexia, the number of students exhibiting dyslexic symptoms, and the number of students diagnosed with dyslexia.Sen. Lou Ann LinehanJanuary 11, 2023EnactedJune 1, 2023
NebraskaL.B. 705LB 705 would change statutes relating to lottery fund distribution, create funds, adopt the Behavioral Intervention Training and Teacher Support Act, establish a mental health training grant program, provide duties to the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education and the Nebraska Department of Education, change provisions related to the Nebraska Opportunity Grant Fund, transfer and chance provisions of the Excellence in Teaching Act, adopt the Door to College Scholarship Act, repeal the Master Teacher Program Act, and appeal several sections. If adopted as introduced, funds would be distributed as follows: Nebraska Opportunity Grant Act: $15,185,406, 62.00% Community College Gap Assistance Program Fund: $1,714,481, 7.00% Door to College Scholarship: $244,926, 1.00% Career Readiness and Dual Credit $489,852, 2.00% Competitive Innovation Grant $4,163,740, 17.00% Mental Health Training: $367,389, 1.50% Behavioral Training Cash Fund: $2,326,796, 9.50%Sen. Dave MurmanJanuary 18, 2023EnactedJune 1, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 2073Higher education finance and policy bill.Rep. Gene PelowskiFebruary 20, 2023EnactedMay 24, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 2497Education finance bill.Rep. Cheryl YouakimMarch 2, 2023EnactedMay 24, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 3346Amends the School Code. Provides that the State Board of Education shall develop a grant program to support the educator licensure of paraprofessionals with bachelor's degrees. Provides that the State Board shall distribute grants to qualified school districts. Provides that the school districts shall distribute funds to paraprofessionals. Sets forth requirements for school districts to qualify. Sets forth requirements for paraprofessionals to qualify. Sets forth requirements for the grant application, selection of paraprofessionals, restrictions of funds, priority to award grant assistance, program evaluation, and rulemaking.Rep. Sharon ChungFebruary 17, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMay 19, 2023
North DakotaS.B. 2284AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 15.1-21 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to permitting private tutors on public school premises; to amend and reenact section 15.1-07-26, subsection 8 of section 15.1-15-02, subsections 2 and 6 of section 15.1-19-10, section 15.1-27-03.1, subsection 4 of section 15.1-27-03.2, section 15.1-27-04.1, and subsection 5 of section 15.1-36-08 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to school district enrollment, the definition of "probationary teacher", a school district's policy governing possession of a weapon, the definition of "dangerous weapon", modification of weighting factors, transition maximums and an increase in per student payments, and the school construction revolving loan fund; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide a legislative management report; to provide an appropriation; to provide for an exemption; to provide for a transfer; and to provide an effective date.Sen. Donald "Don" SchaibleJanuary 16, 2023EnactedMay 18, 2023
NebraskaL.B. 413The intent of LB413 is to support the mobility of licensed teachers through participating in the Teachers Interstate Compact. This compact creates reciprocity among participant states, and reduces barriers to license portability and employment. This bill is especially helpful for our military families and their spouses that relocate from state to state every 2-3 years.Sen. Carol BloodJanuary 12, 2023Out of CommitteeJune 1, 2023
IndianaH.B. 1002Establishes the: (1) career scholarship account program (CSA program); (2) career scholarship account program fund (CSA program fund); (3) career scholarship account administration fund; (4) connecting students with careers fund; (5) intermediary capacity building fund; and (6) credential completion grant. Provides that the department of education (department), in consultation with the governor's workforce cabinet (cabinet), shall: (1) designate and approve course sequences, career courses, modern youth apprenticeships, certain apprenticeship programs, and programs of study leading to industry recognized credentials; and (2) determine the grant amount that a career scholarship student may receive under the CSA program fund for each sequence, course, apprenticeship, or program. Establishes eligibility requirements to participate in the CSA program. Provides that the cabinet may approve participating entities that meet certain requirements to participate in the CSA program. Permits approved participating entities that are providing certain training and education experiences to identify and recommend skill competencies to the department. Requires the department to maintain a list on the department's website of skill competencies identified by approved participating entities. Provides that grant amounts that career scholarship students receive are not included in adjusted gross income for tax purposes. Prohibits a school corporation or charter school from receiving a career and technical education grant for a student enrolled in a career and technical education program if the student is enrolled in the CSA program. Provides that a grant to a choice scholarship eligible school does not count towards a student's choice scholarship amount and is not subject to the maximum choice scholarship cap. Beginning July 1, 2024, provides that certain school corporations shall include instruction for all students regarding career awareness. Provides that the state board of education (board), in consultation with the cabinet, shall create certain standards for a career awareness course. Requires the department to collect and aggregate certain data. Requires the board, in consultation with the department, to establish new high school diploma requirements. Removes a provision that provides that a student who satisfies an Indiana diploma with a Core 40 with academic honors designation through a certain alternative course shall not count toward a school's honor designation award. Requires the cabinet to create a list of approved intermediaries, employers, and labor organizations. Requires certain high school and college students to meet with an intermediary, an employer, or a labor organization. Requires certain committed offenders and recipients of unemployment benefits to meet with an intermediary. Specifies exceptions. Allows the recipient of a: (1) higher education award; (2) freedom of choice grant; and (3) scholarship under the twenty-first century scholars program; to apply the award, grant, or scholarship to the cost of training by an approved intermediary, employer, or labor organization instead of the educational costs of a postsecondary educational institution. Allows certain recipients of a scholarship under the twenty-first century scholars program to apply the scholarship to the cost of a course sequence or an apprenticeship provided by a CSA participating entity. Provides that during each school year, a public high school must hold at least one career fair during regular school hours. Repeals and replaces a definition of "participating entity" with "ESA participating entity".Rep. Chuck GoodrichJanuary 12, 2023EnactedMay 4, 2023
IndianaH.B. 1528Provides that an individual enrolled in an alternative teacher certification program may apply for a one time scholarship under the next generation Hoosier educators scholarship program. Requires an applicant to possess a baccalaureate degree, agree to obtain an initial practitioner license, and teach at a qualifying school for five years. Provides that the maximum amount of a scholarship is $10,000. Provides that the total annual amount of scholarships awarded from the next generation Hoosier educators scholarship fund to individuals enrolled in an alternative teacher certification program may not exceed $1,000,000. Requires that an awarded scholarship must be repaid under certain conditions.Rep. Dave HeineJanuary 19, 2023EnactedMay 4, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 4069Amends the School Code. Provides that, beginning with the 2023-2024 school year, the State Board of Education, in consultation with the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board, shall establish and maintain a Temporary Teacher Apprenticeship Program to assist qualified participants in acquiring a Professional Educator License. Provides that the State Board of Education, in consultation with the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board, may establish and adopt any rules necessary to implement this program, including the standards that a qualified participant must meet to receive a Professional Educator License. Sets forth the requirements to complete the program. Provides that upon completing the requirements of the program, a qualified participant is eligible for a Professional Educator License. Makes related changes. Provides that a foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations may be issued to an applicant who provides satisfactory evidence that he or she meets specified requirements. Provides that the foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations is valid until June 30 immediately following 5 years of the endorsement being issued and may be renewed. Provides that an individual who holds a valid foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations may teach a course on the foreign language for which the foreign language endorsement is issued. Provides that an individual who holds a valid foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations but does not hold a bachelor's degree may substitute teach in foreign language classrooms. Effective July 1, 2023.Rep. Tony McCombieMay 3, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 26, 2024
IllinoisH.B. 4068Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that through June 30, 2026 (instead of June 30, 2023), an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status if that employment is not within the school year during which service was terminated and does not exceed 120 paid days or 600 paid hours in each school year. Deletes language concerning an additional 20 days or 100 paid hours that an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status for the period between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022. Effective immediately.Rep. Tony McCombieMay 3, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 26, 2024
IndianaH.B. 1637Increases the annual scholarship amount, from $7,500 to $10,000, that an applicant can receive as a next generation Hoosier educators scholarship recipient. Increases the annual scholarship amount, from $4,000 to $10,000, that an applicant can receive as a William A. Crawford minority teacher scholarship recipient. Adds requirements that a recipient must maintain for eligibility for the William A. Crawford minority teacher scholarship. Increases the annual scholarship amount, from $4,000 to $5,000, that an applicant can receive as an Earline S. Rogers student teaching scholarship for minority students recipient. Provides that an individual who: (1) received a William A. Crawford minority teacher scholarship; (2) is no longer enrolled in an eligible institution; and (3) did not receive a baccalaureate degree from an eligible institution; shall repay the amount of the scholarship awarded to the individual. Removes the limit on new applicants that may obtain the next generation Hoosier educators scholarship. Makes appropriations.Rep. Robert BehningJanuary 19, 2023EnactedMay 1, 2023
KansasH.B. 2292AN ACT concerning economic development; enacting the Kansas apprenticeship act; establishing a tax credit program and grant incentive programs for apprenticeships for Kansas businesses, nonprofit organizations, healthcare organizations and teacher apprentices for school districts; creating the Kansas nonprofit apprenticeship grant program fund and the Kansas educator registered apprenticeship grant program fund.KS House Committee on Commerce, Labor and Economic DevelopmentFebruary 3, 2023EnactedApril 25, 2023
KansasS.B. 66AN ACT concerning education; relating to teacher licensure; enacting the interstate teacher mobility compact; recognizing equivalent teacher licenses from other member states.KS Senate Committee on EducationJanuary 19, 2023EnactedApril 24, 2023
KansasS.B. 123AN ACT concerning postsecondary education; relating to residency determination of certain students; deeming veterans and dependents or spouses of such veterans who were stationed in the state for at least 11 months as residents for purposes of tuition and fees; amending K.S.A. 2022 Supp. 48-3601 and repealing the existing section.Sen. Virgil PeckJanuary 31, 2023EnactedApril 24, 2023
NebraskaL.B. 385LB385 will promote the recruiting and retention of public school teachers. LB385 will allow teachers who completed at least a year of full time employment at a Nebraska school to apply for a grant. This bill creates a series of grants, each in the amount of $5,000, for people who complete a certain number of years as teachers in Nebraska public schools.Sen. Lou Ann LinehanJanuary 12, 2023Out of CommitteeJune 1, 2023
North DakotaS.B. 2032AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of public instruction for the paraprofessional-to-teacher program.Legislative ManagementJanuary 3, 2023EnactedApril 18, 2023
North DakotaS.B. 2033A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to chapter 15.1-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to teacher shortage loan forgiveness; to amend and reenact section 15.1-02-04 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the duties of the superintendent of public instruction; and to provide an appropriation.Legislative ManagementJanuary 3, 2023Passed Original ChamberApril 7, 2023
IllinoisH.R. 62Urges the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to support the state goal of increasing the number and diversity of Illinois' educator workforce by collaborating with the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) to develop and launch a state-wide teacher recruitment system internally, possibly with the support from an outside vendor, that will be available to the public by July 1, 2024 and will support interested candidates statewide to apply to, enroll in, and complete Illinois' Teacher Preparation Programs and succeed in their eventual job placement.Rep. Carol AmmonsFebruary 10, 2023EnactedMarch 28, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 1589Amends the School Code. Provides that a foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations may be issued to an applicant who provides satisfactory evidence that he or she meets specified requirements. Provides that the foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations is valid until June 30 immediately following 5 years of the endorsement being issued and may be renewed. Provides that an individual who holds a valid foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations may teach a course on the foreign language for which the foreign language endorsement is issued. Provides that an individual who holds a valid foreign language endorsement on an Educator License with Stipulations but does not hold a bachelor's degree may substitute teach in foreign language classrooms. Effective July 1, 2023.Rep. David FriessJanuary 30, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 27, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 3561Amends the Chicago School District Article of the School Code. Provides that the board shall create a educator pipeline development program. Provides that the program shall seek to develop a licensed practical nurse seeking to become a health service nurse, a paraprofessional and related service personnel seeking to become a licensed teacher, or a multilingual staff employee seeking to become a licensed bilingual teacher. Provides that the program shall support up to 120 people per school year. Provides that the program shall partner with Chicago State University, Northeastern Illinois University, and the City Colleges of Chicago. Provides that of the pipeline program shall complete necessary collegiate course work to attain the member's additional licensure. Provides that program members shall continue to work normally until required student teaching or clinical experiences are required. Provides that members of the program will work with cooperating instructors from the member's affiliate institution toward the successful completion of the member's required work experience. Provides that members of the program will have 3 years to complete the member's coursework and required work experience. Provides that members of the program who successfully complete the member's training will be placed, to the extent practicable, in the school where they completed the member's required work experience. Provides that those members who were unable to be placed at the school where the member completed the work experience at shall be placed elsewhere in the school district. Provides that, subject to appropriation, the State Board of Education and the board shall split the costs of the program equally.Rep. Mary FlowersFebruary 17, 2023Out of CommitteeMay 10, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 1214Amends the School Code. Provides that, beginning with the 2023-2024 school year, the State Board of Education, in consultation with the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board, shall establish and maintain a Temporary Teacher Apprenticeship Program to assist qualified participants in acquiring a Professional Educator License. Provides that the State Board of Education, in consultation with the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board, may establish and adopt any rules necessary to implement this program, including the standards that a qualified participant must meet to receive a Professional Educator License. Sets forth the requirements to complete the program. Provides that upon completing the requirements of the program, a qualified participant is eligible for a Professional Educator License. Makes related changes. Effective immediately.Fmr. Rep. Jonathan CarrollJanuary 17, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 16, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 1215Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Provides that, subject to appropriation, any candidate who is considered either a former or active first responder or military personnel shall receive a refund for any costs associated with completing a test of content area knowledge. Provides that, subject to appropriation, any candidate who is considered either a former or active first responder or military personnel shall receive a refund for any costs associated with completing a teacher performance assessment. Provides that no former or active first responder or military personnel may be charged an application fee under specified provisions. Effective July 1, 2023.Fmr. Rep. Jonathan CarrollJanuary 17, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 16, 2023
IllinoisS.B. 309Amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. Creates the Teacher Loan Repayment Program. Provides that the Illinois Student Assistance Commission shall consider applications for forgiving portions of qualified applicant's education loans each year. Provides that 10% of the applicant's yearly loan balance shall be forgiven each year for 5 years or until 50% of the applicant's outstanding balance at the time of the initial application is paid off. Effective July 1, 2024.Sen. Ram VillivalamFebruary 2, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 10, 2023
IllinoisS.B. 1520Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. In provisions regarding the types of licenses, provides that applicants for a Substitute Teaching License must hold an associate degree (instead of a bachelor's degree) or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education or must be enrolled in an approved educator preparation program in this State and have earned at least 90 credit hours. Effective July 1, 2023.Sen. Elgie SimsFebruary 8, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 17, 2023
IllinoisS.B. 1528Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that during the period between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2024 (instead of June 30, 2022) an additional 20 paid days or 100 paid hours shall be added to a provision that authorizes an annuitant to accept employment for a certain number of paid days or paid hours as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status. Removes a reference to the substitute teacher shortage being exacerbated by the ongoing global pandemic. Effective immediately.Sen. Jil TracyFebruary 8, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 10, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 2873Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that beginning July 1, 2023, an annuitant may accept employment as a teacher without impairing his or her retirement status if that employment is not within the school year during which service was terminated and does not exceed 150 (instead of 100) paid days or 750 (instead of 500) paid hours in each school year. Effective immediately.Rep. Rita MayfieldFebruary 16, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 10, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 2958Amends the Educator Licensure Article of the School Code. Provides for the reinstatement of a lapsed Professional Educator License upon the payment by the applicant of the lesser of a $50 penalty or a $10 penalty for each year the license has lapsed (rather than a $50 penalty). Effective immediately.Rep. Dan CaulkinsFebruary 16, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 16, 2023
IowaH.F. 4A bill for an act modifying requirements related to teacher intern license programs and licenses and authorizations issued by the board of educational examiners and establishing a temporary initial teaching license to be issued by the board of educational examiners to applicants who complete an alternative teacher certification program.Rep. Skyler WheelerJanuary 11, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 8, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 1473Barriers removal to teacher licensureSen. Heather GustafsonFebruary 9, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 7, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 1641Changes to teacher licensure and teacher preparation programsSen. Steve CwodzinskiFebruary 13, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 7, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 1777Pilot program establishment for a teacher residency grantSen. Clare Oumou VerbetenFebruary 16, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 7, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1348Employee health insurance provided, minimum starting salary for nonlicensed school personnel increased, paid orientation and professional development for paraprofessionals provided, and money appropriated.Rep. Brad TabkeFebruary 6, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 6, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1589Special education teacher pipeline program established, report required, and money appropriated.Rep. Peggy BennettFebruary 13, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 20, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 2575Grants provision to aspiring educatorsSen. Robert "Rob" KupecMarch 6, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 6, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 2368Teacher licensure application fees and background checks appropriationSen. Steve CwodzinskiMarch 2, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 2, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 2535Grants to aspiring educators provided, endowment established, and money appropriated.Rep. Mary ClardyMarch 2, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 2, 2023
IowaS.F. 392A bill for an act relating to education, including eligibility for grants under the teach Iowa scholar program, licenses issued by the board of educational examiners, and the use of revenues from the district management levy, and including applicability provisions.(Formerly SSB 1049.)IA Senate Committee on EducationFebruary 23, 2023Out of CommitteeDecember 31, 2023
IowaS.B. 1049A bill for an act relating to education, including eligibility for grants under the teach Iowa scholar program, licenses issued by the board of educational examiners, and the use of revenues from the district management levy, and including applicability provisions.IA Senate Committee on EducationJanuary 17, 2023Out of CommitteeFebruary 23, 2023
North DakotaH.B. 1240A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact section 15-10-38.1, 15-10-38.2, and 15-10-38.3 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to skilled workforce student loan repayment and skilled workforce scholarships; and to provide for a transfer.Rep. Alisa MitskogJanuary 10, 2023Out of CommitteeFebruary 21, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1268Teacher licensure and teacher preparation program changes made, Professional Educator Licensing Standards Board membership changes made, and money appropriated.Rep. Josiah HillFebruary 2, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 9, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1224Education; tiered licensure changes made.Rep. Josiah HillFebruary 2, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 9, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1257Barriers to teacher licensure removed, licensure requirements modified, and short-call substitute teacher pilot program established.Rep. Josiah HillFebruary 2, 2023Out of CommitteeFebruary 16, 2023
OhioH.B. 9To amend sections 3314.03, 3319.223, 3319.26, and 3326.11 and to enact sections 3319.225, 3319.58, 3333.393, and 3333.394 of the Revised Code and to amend the version of section 3319.26 of the Revised Code that is scheduled to take effect on December 29, 2023, to continue the changes on and after that date, to establish the Grow Your Own Teacher Program, to establish a loan repayment program for eligible teachers, to make changes to teacher licensing and professional development, and to make an appropriation.Rep. Gayle ManningFebruary 15, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 16, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1956Short-call substitute teacher licensing provisions provided for rural Minnesota.Rep. Mary FransonFebruary 16, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 16, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1138Teacher residency grant pilot program established.Rep. Samantha Sencer-MuraFebruary 1, 2023Out of CommitteeFebruary 15, 2023
IllinoisH.B. 2586Amends the Grow Your Own Teacher Education Act. Transfers the powers and duties under the Act from the Board of Higher Education to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission. Replaces the requirement that the Board of Higher Education contract for an independent evaluation of program implementation with the requirement that Grow Your Own Illinois submit an annual report to assist the Commission in monitoring the performance and grant activities of Grow Your Own Illinois and each of its participating consortia. .Allows the Commission to elect to contract for an independent evaluation of program implementation with an outside entity. Requires the Auditor General to prepare an annual audit of the operations and finances of Grow Your Own Illinois and each consortium that received any State funds in the previous fiscal year. Makes related changes. Effective July 1, 2023.Rep. Dan SwansonFebruary 15, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 15, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 502Paid orientation for paraprofessionals requirement and training appropriationSen. Bonnie WestlinJanuary 23, 2023Out of CommitteeFebruary 13, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 663Number increase of heritage language and culture teachersSen. Mary KuneshJanuary 25, 2023Out of CommitteeFebruary 13, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1137Number of heritage language and culture teachers increased, and money appropriated.Rep. Samantha Sencer-MuraFebruary 1, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 9, 2023
IowaH.F. 210A bill for an act relating to the minimum age of substitute teachers in prekindergarten through grade eight.Rep. Carter NordmanFebruary 7, 2023Introduced or PrefiledDecember 31, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 1564Special education teacher pipeline program establishment and appropriationSen. Gene DorninkFebruary 13, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 13, 2023
IllinoisS.B. 2350Amends the School Code. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, provides that beginning with the 2024-2025 school year, all teachers shall be paid based on the federal General Schedule classification at the GS-9 level. Provides that if the teacher's base salary does not exceed $45,000, then the teacher shall be paid starting at $45,000. Provides that if the increase in the salary from the federal GS-9 level has not exceeded the starting salary for the previous school year increased by a percentage equal to one-half of the percentage increase, if any, in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers for all items published by the United States Department of Labor for the previous school year, the teacher's salary shall increase by a percentage equal to one-half of the percentage increase, if any, in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers for all items. Provides that public school teachers shall be paid for any time spent taking a continuing education course.Sen. Rachel VenturaFebruary 10, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 10, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 1477Tiered licensure provisions modificationsSen. Mary KuneshFebruary 9, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 9, 2023
OhioS.B. 27To enact section 3319.34 of the Revised Code to ratify the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact.Sen. Kristina RoegnerJanuary 23, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 8, 2023
KansasH.B. 2359AN ACT concerning education; making and concerning appropriations for fiscal year 2025, for the state department of education; establishing the sunflower teacher-student mentor program; pairing secondary students who are interested in pursuing a teaching career with teacher mentors; providing bonuses to participating teachers; requiring the state treasurer to establish education savings accounts for participating students; authorizing student accounts to be used for academic tutoring and postsecondary education expenses; requiring certain transfers from the state general fund upon establishment of student accounts; establishing the sunflower teacher-student mentor program fund; prioritizing participating students for postsecondary educational scholarships under the Kansas promise scholarship act and the teacher service scholarship program act; providing an income tax subtraction modification to federal adjusted gross income for amounts deposited in a student program account; amending K.S.A. 74-32,101 and 74-32,102 and K.S.A. 2022 Supp. 74-32,272, 74-32,275 and 79-32,117 and repealing the existing sections.Rep. Kristey WilliamsFebruary 8, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 8, 2023
WisconsinA.B. 18Under current law, certain individuals who receive a retirement or disability annuity from the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) and who are hired by an employer that participates in the WRS must suspend that annuity and may not receive a WRS annuity payment until the individual is no longer in a WRS-covered position. This suspension applies to an individual who 1) has reached his or her normal retirement date; 2) is appointed to a position with a WRS-participating employer or provides employee services as a contractor to a WRS-participating employer; and 3) is expected to work at least two-thirds of what is considered full-time employment by the Department of Employee Trust Funds.Rep. Jeffrey "Jeff" MursauFebruary 7, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
MinnesotaS.F. 619Teachers of Color Act modification and appropriationSen. Mary KuneshJanuary 23, 2023Out of CommitteeFebruary 6, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 1285Teacher shortage reporting requirements modificationSen. Heather GustafsonFebruary 6, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 6, 2023
IllinoisS.B. 1285Amends the Downstate Teacher Article of the Illinois Pension Code. In provisions that limit the number of days and hours an annuitant may accept employment for without impairing retirement status, provides that the limitation does not apply to an annuitant who returns to teaching as a substitute teacher in a school district that has been granted a waiver by the System. Provides that a school district may apply for a waiver by providing to the System sufficient evidence that there is a substitute teacher shortage in the school district and an estimate of the number of paid hours in the school year that the annuitant will work. Effective immediately.Sen. Jil TracyFebruary 3, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 3, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 1058Alternative teacher preparation program grant eligibility modified, and money appropriated.Rep. Mary ClardyJanuary 30, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 2, 2023
IowaS.F. 116A bill for an act relating to certain specified skilled trades, including modifying provisions related to economic development authority internship programs, the Iowa summer youth corps program, college student aid commission programs, the senior year plus program, the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics collaborative initiative established at the university of northern Iowa, and curricula provided in school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, and charter schools to include the skilled trades, and including applicability provisions.Sen. Molly DonahueJanuary 24, 2023Introduced or PrefiledDecember 31, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 909Teacher shortage loan forgiveness eligibility to include nonpublic schools modificationSen. Torrey WestromJanuary 30, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 30, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 888Alternative teacher preparation program grant eligibility modificationSen. Julia ColemanJanuary 27, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 27, 2023
WisconsinS.B. 9Under current law, certain individuals who receive a retirement or disability annuity from the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) and who are hired by an employer that participates in the WRS must suspend that annuity and may not receive a WRS annuity payment until the individual is no longer in a WRS-covered position. This suspension applies to an individual who 1) has reached his or her normal retirement date; 2) is appointed to a position with a WRS-participating employer or provides employee services as a contractor to a WRS-participating employer; and 3) is expected to work at least two-thirds of what is considered full-time employment by the Department of Employee Trust Funds.Sen. Joan BallwegJanuary 27, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 15, 2024
MinnesotaH.F. 320Teachers of Color Act strengthened, percentage of teachers of color and American Indian teachers in Minnesota increased, world's best workforce requirements amended, reports required, and money appropriated.Rep. Hodan HassanJanuary 11, 2023Out of CommitteeMarch 9, 2023
NebraskaL.B. 519LB519 is intended to provide several solutions to the educator workforce shortage that Nebraska is facing. LB519 does the following: • Requires the Department of Education to pay for certification fees to assist with financial barriers to becoming a teacher. The bill covers the certification fees for the Initial Teaching Certificate, Standard Teaching Certificate, Professional Certificate and Military Certificate • Increases the Attracting Excellence to Teaching Program loan from $3,000 to $5,000. For teachers in school districts that are classified as very sparse, in a Community Eligibility Provision school, in a school building in which at least 40% of the formula students are poverty students or teaches in an accredited or approved private school in which at least 40% of the enrolled students are qualified for free lunches, payments shall be forgiven at $10,000 as opposed to the current $6,000. • Provides retention payments to all public and non-public school staff. The Nebraska Department of Education will provide public school districts with appropriate dollars for the level of staff employed. Non-public school staff may apply to the Nebraska Department of Education for their retention payment. • Creates the Student Teaching Assistance Act, which administers not more than $8,500 per year for student-teaching semesters. The loan will be fully forgiven for teachers that teach in the State of Nebraska, over the course of four years, except if the borrower teaches full-time in a school district that is defined as “very sparse" or with a student population with at least 40% of students in poverty.Sen. Lynne WalzJanuary 17, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 18, 2024
MinnesotaS.F. 581Short-call substitute teacher licensing provisions for rural Minnesota establishmentSen. Torrey WestromJanuary 23, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 23, 2023
MinnesotaS.F. 585Short-call substitute teacher requirements modificationsSen. Julia ColemanJanuary 23, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 23, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 652Teacher shortage reporting requirements modified.Rep. Hodan HassanJanuary 23, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 23, 2023
IowaH.F. 95A bill for an act establishing a temporary initial teaching license to be issued by the board of educational examiners to applicants who complete alternative teacher certification programs.Rep. John WillsJanuary 23, 2023Introduced or PrefiledDecember 31, 2023
IndianaH.B. 1531Establishes a teacher recruitment and retention fund, administered by the department of education, to: (1) attract qualified teachers to geographic areas of Indiana where a critical shortage of teachers exists; and (2) retain qualified teachers in teacher shortage areas; by providing student loan repayment assistance. Provides that as a condition of participating in the program and receiving student loan repayments, a teacher must agree to employment as a licensed teacher in a school district located in a teacher shortage area for at least five years. Establishes the goal that by 2032 there will be at least one teacher who is certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (national board) in every public school. Establishes the teachers' national board certification incentive fund for purposes of: (1) funding stipends of $200 per day for two days for teachers preparing for national board certification; (2) reimbursing 75% of the national board certification fee; (3) funding stipends for national board certified teachers who serve as mentors to other teachers; (4) reimbursing school corporations for the cost of paying teachers who have attained national board certification as of July 1, 2023, or thereafter an annual salary supplement of $2,000 for the life of the certificate; and (5) reimbursing school corporations for the cost of persons who serve as substitute teachers for national board certification candidates. Requires a school corporation to allow a teacher pursuing national board certification at least five days of paid release time during the school year.Rep. Gregory "Greg" PorterJanuary 19, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 19, 2023
OhioS.B. 14To amend sections 3319.074 and 3319.283 of the Revised Code to expand eligibility for veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces to be employed as teachers without licenses.Fmr. Sen. Frank HoaglandJanuary 11, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 7, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 381Increase Teachers of Color Act in higher education strengthened, pilot scholarship program for aspiring teachers of color made permanent, special revenue fund account established, teacher shortage loan repayment program provisions modified, and money appropriated.Rep. Alicia KozlowskiJanuary 17, 2023Introduced or PrefiledMarch 9, 2023
IndianaH.B. 1444Adopts the interstate teacher mobility compact. Sets forth the requirements of a compact state. Sets forth the duties of the interstate teacher mobility compact commission. Provides that a receiving state determines equivalency standards. Amends the definition of "unencumbered license" in the compact. Removes certain provisions concerning compensation from the compact. Makes conforming changes.Rep. Sue ErringtonJanuary 17, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 17, 2023
NebraskaL.B. 188LB188 expands career opportunities for veterans and provides solutions for teacher shortages. It requires the Commissioner of Education to grant a five year temporary certificate to teach to any veteran who applies and can meet the following requirements. - Has at least forty-eight months of military service. - Has a minimum of sixty college credits with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a four point scale or the equivalent. -Has passed appropriate examinations designated by the State Board of Education. Applicants will be assigned a teacher mentor and must obtain a certificate to teach pursuant to section 79-806 to 79-815 while holding the temporary certificate.Sen. Ben HansenJanuary 9, 2023Introduced or PrefiledApril 18, 2024
MinnesotaS.F. 267Increase Teacher of Color Act in higher education strengtheningSen. Omar FatehJanuary 12, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 25, 2023
IndianaH.B. 1223Provides that a member of the Indiana state teachers' retirement fund who retires after June 30, 2023, and served time in voluntary or involuntary active military service is entitled to military service credit for the member's active military service in an amount equal to the duration of the member's active military service, if the member: (1) received an honorable discharge; and (2) has at least 10 years of in-state service credit. Provides that not more than four years of military service credit may be granted. Provides that military veterans who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree may be granted a temporary initial practitioner's license (temporary license) under certain conditions. Requires that an individual with a temporary license be assigned a teacher mentor for at least two years. Provides that a temporary license is valid for four years and is nonrenewable.Former Rep. Randy FryeJanuary 10, 2023Introduced or PrefiledJanuary 10, 2023
MinnesotaH.F. 143Short-call substitute teacher requirements modified.Rep. Patricia "Patty" MuellerJanuary 9, 2023Introduced or PrefiledFebruary 12, 2024