If enacted, the Student Teacher Promotion Act will significantly impact educational practices in Georgia by incentivizing schools to attract and retain student teachers. The intent is to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with student teaching, which can deter prospective teachers from completing their education. By offering financial support during this critical phase, the state hopes to increase the number of individuals entering the teaching profession, thereby enhancing the overall educational quality and availability in public schools.
Summary
House Bill 310, also known as the Student Teacher Promotion Act, aims to address the recruitment of teachers in Georgia by establishing a grant program for student teachers. The bill permits public schools and local school systems to apply for grant funds earmarked to support student teachers who are completing the required teaching component of their education program. The legislation stipulates that these grants can provide a maximum of $7,500 to each student teacher, which can be distributed in installments over the course of their student teaching assignment.
Contention
The bill is expected to encounter discussions about the allocation of funds and the mechanics of the grant application process. Some stakeholders may raise concerns regarding the sufficiency of the allocated funds and whether they adequately meet the needs of all qualifying student teachers. Additionally, there may be debates concerning the regulatory framework established by the State Board of Education in implementing the grant program, including criteria for application approvals and the effectiveness of the program in actually attracting more teachers into the profession.