Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1213

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/6/24
• Report Pass: 2/13/24
• Refer: 2/13/24

Caption

Student teachers; directing allocation of funds to provide stipends to student teachers. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The implementation of SB1213 is expected to positively impact enrollment in teacher education programs by alleviating some of the financial burdens faced by student teachers. By providing a monthly stipend of $1,000 distributed in three equal installments, the bill is designed to support these trainees as they gain essential hands-on experience in classrooms across Oklahoma. This measure is particularly relevant given the ongoing teacher shortages in many regions, as it aims to attract and retain individuals who might otherwise be deterred by the costs associated with teacher training.

Summary

Senate Bill 1213 aims to enhance support for student teachers by creating a stipend program administered by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. This program will allocate funds to accredited teacher education programs within Oklahoma's higher education system specifically for the purpose of providing financial support to student teachers engaged in practice teaching at public schools. The proposed stipend is set at $3,000 for each student teacher's assignment during a semester, which represents a significant investment in future educators who are pivotal to the state's educational landscape.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB1213 may include topics such as the effectiveness of financial incentives in increasing the teaching workforce, and whether the stipends will sufficiently address the barriers facing student teachers. Some stakeholders might advocate for additional measures to ensure that these stipends are accompanied by ongoing mentorship and professional development opportunities for student teachers. Others may scrutinize the funding sources for the stipends and how this initiative aligns with broader educational funding policies in the state.